Long Pool Recreation Area: The Ultimate Summer Destination for Relaxation and Fun
Kind Reader, let me take you on a trip to the breathtaking Long Pool Recreation Area. This popular spot offers visitors an incredible experience with its stunning long pool, which is the heart of the recreational area. The long pool stretches across several acres and holds immense appeal for people who want to enjoy an outdoor recreational day in a calm and relaxed atmosphere. Whether you’re planning to spend an entire day or just a few hours, the Long Pool Recreation Area guarantees a refreshing experience that will leave you dreaming about your next visit.
What is Long Pool Recreation Area?
Long Pool Recreation Area is an area located in the Ozark-St. Francis National Forests. It is a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts that offers a wide range of activities to indulge in. The recreation area is situated on the bank of Big Piney Creek and is surrounded by beautiful and lush forested areas. Long Pool Recreation Area is a great place for camping, fishing, and hiking, among other activities.
The History of Long Pool Recreation Area
The area was initially used as a campsite for work crews in the early 1900s, who were working on the construction of the nearby Long Pool Dam. The dam was constructed in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The recreation area itself was built in the 1960s to provide an opportunity for people to visit and enjoy the beautiful and natural surroundings of the Ozarks.
The Activities Available at Long Pool Recreation Area
Long Pool Recreation Area offers something for everyone, from camping to hiking and horseback riding. The activities available at the recreation area include:
No | Activities |
---|---|
1 | Camping |
2 | Hiking |
3 | Fishing |
4 | Swimming |
5 | Picnicking |
6 | Canoeing and kayaking |
7 | Horseback riding |
Camping at Long Pool Recreation Area
Camping is one of the most popular activities to do at Long Pool Recreation Area. The recreation area has many campsites available, with both primitive and developed options. The primitive campsites are located closer to Big Piney Creek and offer a more secluded experience. The developed campsites, on the other hand, offer fire pits, picnic tables, and easy access to restrooms and showers.
Fishing at Long Pool Recreation Area
Big Piney Creek, which runs through the recreation area, is a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts. The creek is stocked regularly with trout, making it a great spot for fly fishing. Other fish species that can be found in the creek include smallmouth and largemouth bass, sunfish, and catfish.
Hiking at Long Pool Recreation Area
The recreation area has several trails available for hiking, each offering different levels of difficulty. The most popular trail is the Big Piney Trail, which is a 17-mile trail that runs through the Ozark National Forest. The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding Ozark Mountains, with several overlooks and waterfalls along the way.
The Facilities at Long Pool Recreation Area
Long Pool Recreation Area offers a variety of facilities that cater to visitors’ needs. The facilities here are top-notch and are meant to make visitors’ stay comfortable and enjoyable.
RV Campground
The RV campground at Long Pool Recreation Area has 20 sites available. They do require a fee to stay in, but the price is worth it for the amenities and location. Visitors will have access to water and electrical hookups, a shower and restroom facility, and a dump station. Reservations for the RV sites can be made by phone or online.
Picnic Facilities
For those wishing to visit Long Pool Recreation Area for a day trip, the picnic areas are a great choice. There are picnic tables and grills available on a first-come, first-served basis. The trees surrounding the picnic areas provide ample shade, perfect for hot summer days.
Playground
Long Pool Recreation Area has a small playground that is perfect for children visiting the area. The playground is located near the picnic areas, making it convenient for families with children to watch over them while they play.
Boat Ramp
The boat ramp at Long Pool Recreation Area is a popular destination for boaters. Visitors can launch their boats and explore the lake. There is no fee to use the boat ramp, and it is open year-round.
Fishing
Long Pool Recreation Area is a great spot for fishing. Visitors can try their luck at catching bass, catfish, and crappie. The area is stocked with fish, making it a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts. A fishing license is required to fish at the lake.
Swimming Area
The swimming area at Long Pool Recreation Area is located near the boat ramp. There is no lifeguard on duty, so visitors are encouraged to swim at their own risk. The area is open for swimming during daylight hours only.
No | Facility Name | Fee | Available Dates/Hours |
---|---|---|---|
1 | RV Campground | Yes | Year-round |
2 | Picnic Facilities | No | Daytime only |
3 | Playground | No | Daytime only |
4 | Boat Ramp | No | Year-round |
5 | Fishing | Yes (fishing license required) | Year-round |
6 | Swimming Area | No | Daytime only |
No | Information |
---|---|
1 | Name of the recreation area |
2 | Location |
3 | Type of recreation area |
4 | Size of the recreation area |
5 | Facilities available |
6 | Activities allowed |
7 | Opening and closing times |
8 | Contact details |
9 | Rules and regulations |
Facilities at Long Pool Recreation Area
The Long Pool Recreation Area is equipped with various amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit for its guests. Here are some of the facilities at Long Pool Recreation Area.
Restrooms
One of the basic facilities available at Long Pool Recreation Area is restrooms. The facility has a modern public restroom that is clean and well-maintained.
Picnic Areas
Long Pool Recreation Area offers visitors a chance to have picnics in its designated picnic areas. The picnic areas have tables and benches for visitors to sit and enjoy the view while having their meals. Visitors can also grill and cook their meals using the picnic area’s barbeque grills.
Campgrounds
Long Pool Recreation Area has campgrounds for groups and individuals interested in camping. The facility has campsites that provide guests with hookups for water and electrical connections. The campground also offers amenities such as fire pits, grills, picnic tables, and restrooms.
Trails
The recreation area is home to two hiking trails that are great for visitors who want to explore nature. The trails are well-marked and easy to navigate, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can also take advantage of biking, horseback riding, and off-road vehicle riding on designated trails.
Boating and Fishing
Long Pool Recreation Area offers visitors a chance to fish and boat. The facility has a boat ramp that provides easy access to the water and is open for use from March to November. The area is frequented by anglers who enjoy the facility’s 2.4-mile-long fishing area, which is home to various species of fish.
Swimming
Long Pool Recreation Area’s swimming area is one of its biggest attractions. The designated swimming area is a beautiful and scenic spot where visitors can cool off on hot summer days. The area has a rope swing, diving board, and a shallow end for young children.
Wildlife Viewing
Long Pool Recreation Area is home to a variety of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, black bear, bald eagles, wild turkey, and more. Visitors can enjoy wildlife viewing opportunities as they explore the recreation area’s hiking trails or while relaxing at the picnic areas.
Facilities at Long Pool Recreation Area
Long Pool Recreation Area offers visitors various facilities to make their experience enjoyable. Here are some of the facilities that visitors can expect from Long Pool Recreation Area:
1. Picnic Areas
Long Pool Recreation Area offers well-laid-out picnic areas where visitors can relax and enjoy their meals. These areas feature picnic tables, benches, and barbecue grills, making it easy to accommodate large groups.
2. Restrooms
Long Pool Recreation Area has well-maintained restrooms where visitors can freshen up and take care of their business. The restrooms are located at convenient locations throughout the park and are kept clean at all times.
3. Camping Facilities
Long Pool Recreation Area boasts a beautiful and serene camping ground with over 35 campsites. The campsites are equipped with fire rings and picnic tables, and the area has drinking water, flushing toilets, and trash receptacles nearby.
4. Hiking and Biking Trails
Long Pool Recreation Area has numerous trails for hikers and bikers of all skill levels. The trails lead through the park’s gorgeous scenery, including beautiful waterfalls, clear streams, and stunning rock formations.
5. Fishing Spots
The Buffalo National River is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, and Long Pool Recreation Area is no exception. Visitors can expect to catch a variety of fish, including bass, catfish, and sunfish.
6. Water Activities
Long Pool Recreation Area is situated right on the banks of the Buffalo National River, making it an excellent spot for water activities such as swimming, canoeing, and kayaking.
7. Wildlife Viewing
Long Pool Recreation Area is home to a variety of wildlife species, including deer, raccoons, and birds such as woodpeckers and owls. Visitors can go on wildlife watching excursions early in the morning or at dusk.
Long Pool Recreation Area offers visitors various facilities, including picnic areas, restrooms, camping, hiking and biking trails, fishing spots, water activities, and wildlife viewing.
No | Facilities | Description |
---|---|---|
1 | Picnic Areas | Well-laid-out picnic areas where visitors can relax and enjoy their meals with picnic tables, benches, and barbecue grills. |
2 | Restrooms | Well-maintained restrooms located at convenient locations throughout the park and kept clean at all times. |
3 | Camping Facilities | A beautiful and serene camping ground with over 35 campsites equipped with fire rings, picnic tables, and nearby drinking water, flushing toilets, and trash receptacles. |
4 | Hiking and Biking Trails | Trails for hikers and bikers of all skill levels that lead through the park’s gorgeous scenery, including beautiful waterfalls, clear streams, and stunning rock formations. |
5 | Fishing Spots | Opportunities for visitors to catch a variety of fish, including bass, catfish, and sunfish. |
6 | Water Activities | An excellent spot for water activities such as swimming, canoeing, and kayaking. |
7 | Wildlife Viewing | Opportunities to see a variety of wildlife species, including deer, raccoons, and birds such as woodpeckers and owls. |
Swimming Pools at Long Pool Recreation Area
The Long Pool Recreation Area may be best known for its half-mile-long, natural, spring-fed pool, but there are other swimming options as well. The park also features a secondary spring-fed, outdoor pool, a concrete wading pool for younger children, and a train-themed splash pad. The second pool is slightly smaller than the main pool, with more of a traditional rectangular shape. It is also generally shallower and cooler, making it a great option for those looking for a slightly more comfortable swim.
Pool Guidelines and Amenities
The main pool at Long Pool Recreation Area is the largest in the state, and is surrounded by lush Ozark forest. The pool is regularly tested to ensure water quality, and is staffed by certified lifeguards during operating hours. Visitors are reminded to follow all pool guidelines, including no diving, no running, and no floats or rafts. The park also boasts a large bathhouse with changing rooms, lockers, and restrooms. Outside the pool area, park-goers can enjoy a playground, pavilion, and hiking trails.
Train Splash Pad
In addition to the swimming pools at Long Pool Recreation Area, there is also a train-themed splash pad that is perfect for younger children. Kids can run through a tunnel, play with water cannons, and splash around in a shallow pool. The splash pad pays tribute to the railroad history of the region, featuring train-themed decorations and play structures. Note that the splash pad is typically only open during the hottest hours of the day during peak summer months.
The Perfect Spot for Events and Gatherings
Aside from being a great place to cool down during hot summer days, Long Pool Recreation Area also serves as an ideal setting for events and gatherings. With a breathtaking natural backdrop, it’s hard to find a more picturesque location for weddings, reunions, and other important celebrations. There are also ample picnic areas and pavilions available for rent, making it a perfect spot for a company outing or team building event. Some of the picnic areas even feature barbecue grills, so you can cook up a feast while enjoying the great outdoors.
Weddings at Long Pool Recreation Area
What could be more romantic than saying “I do” in front of a crystal clear pool and surrounded by nature’s beauty? Long Pool Recreation Area has become a popular wedding destination for couples looking for a scenic and tranquil location for their big day. The surrounding Ozark National Forest offers a stunning backdrop for photographs, and the pavilion areas can accommodate large groups of guests for receptions and post-wedding celebrations.
Company Outings and Team Building
Looking for a change of pace for your next company event or team building session? Long Pool Recreation Area has plenty of space to accommodate your group, with several picnic areas and pavilions available for rent. Host a company picnic, challenge your team to an intense game of tug-of-war, or simply enjoy the great outdoors in a relaxed and refreshing atmosphere.
Amazing Features of Long Pool Recreation Area to Enjoy
Long Pool Recreation Area offers visitors a plethora of activities for all age groups. From mesmerizing views to thrilling adventures, this place has it all. Here are some of the amazing features that visitors can enjoy.
Aqua Park
If you’re looking for a fun way to beat the heat, the Aqua Park is the perfect place to visit. It is a collection of water rides that is sure to create a splash. The park features a range of water slides and other interactive water features suitable for kids and adults alike. The unique thing about the Aqua Park is that it complies with the international safety standards, making the environment safe and exciting.
Fishing
Get your fishing gear and head to the Long Pool Recreation Area for an exciting fishing experience. The park provides rental equipment for visitors that can use them for fishing on the lake’s shore. The lake is home to species like catfish, rainbow trout, and bluegill, making it a perfect location for fishing enthusiasts. The beautiful surrounding and serene environment makes fishing even more enjoyable and relaxing.
Long Pool Recreation Area FAQ
Welcome to Long Pool Recreation Area’s FAQ section for any questions or concerns you may have about our facility. We hope this helps alleviate any anxieties or problems you may have. If you still have further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
1. What are the hours of operation for Long Pool Recreation Area?
Long Pool Recreation Area is open from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm daily.
2. Can I bring outside food and drinks to the pool area?
No. For safety and hygiene reasons, we do not permit outside food and drinks in the pool area. We offer a wide variety of food and drinks for sale at our concession stands.
3. What is the maximum capacity for the pool area?
The maximum capacity for the pool area is 500 people.
4. Is there a lifeguard on duty at the pool?
Yes. We have certified lifeguards on duty during all operating hours.
5. Are there any age restrictions for the pool?
No. We welcome guests of all ages to enjoy our facility. However, all children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
6. Are there changing rooms and showers available?
Yes. We provide changing rooms, showers, and lockers for our guests to use.
7. Is there a fee to enter the pool area?
Yes. There is an entrance fee of $10 per person for adults and $5 per person for children under 12 years old.
8. Can I bring my own pool floatation devices?
No. For safety reasons, we do not permit guests to bring their own pool floatation devices. We provide a variety of floatation devices for our guests to use free of charge.
9. Is there a dress code for the pool area?
We require all guests to wear appropriate swimwear. Shirts, pants, and shorts are not permitted in the pool area.
10. Are there any pool games or activities available?
Yes. We offer a variety of pool games and activities throughout the day, such as water volleyball and pool basketball.
11. Is the pool area wheelchair accessible?
Yes. We have wheelchair ramps and accessible bathrooms available for our guests to use.
12. Are there any quiet areas in the pool area?
Yes. We offer a designated quiet zone for guests who prefer a more peaceful atmosphere.
13. Can I rent a private cabana or lounge chair?
Yes. We offer rental options for private cabanas and lounge chairs for guests who wish to have a more exclusive pool experience.
14. Are there any age restrictions for the water slide?
Yes. Children must be at least 48 inches tall to use the water slide.
15. What is the temperature of the pool?
Our pool is kept at a comfortable temperature of 82-84 degrees Fahrenheit.
16. Are there any restrictions for pregnant women?
For safety reasons, we do not permit pregnant women to use the water slide or participate in any pool games or activities.
17. What is the maximum depth of the pool?
The maximum depth of the pool is 6 feet.
18. Is there a first aid station on site?
Yes. We have a first aid station on site with trained medical professionals available.
19. Are pets allowed in the pool area?
No. For health and safety reasons, we do not permit pets in the pool area.
20. Are there any discounts available for large groups or organizations?
Yes. We offer group discounts for parties of 10 or more guests. Please contact us for more information.
21. Is there a lost and found on site?
Yes. We have a lost and found where we keep any lost items found on the premises.
22. Are there any special events or promotions offered?
Yes. We offer special events and promotions throughout the year. Follow our social media pages for updates.
23. Is the pool area open year-round?
No. Long Pool Recreation Area is a seasonal facility and is only open during the summer months.
24. Is there parking available on site?
Yes. We have ample parking available for our guests.
25. Are there any restrictions on the use of cameras or video recording devices?
For privacy and safety reasons, we do not permit the use of cameras or video recording devices in the pool area without prior consent of the management.
Looking for a perfect place to spend quality time with your loved ones? Check out Long Pool Recreation Area for an unforgettable outdoor experience.
A Place to Unwind: The Long Pool Recreation Area
Kind Reader, it has been a pleasure sharing with you the wonders of the Long Pool Recreation Area. This serene destination is perfect for unwinding, from its refreshing waters to its picturesque scenery. Whether you’re seeking solace from the hustle and bustle of city life, or looking for a place to bond with your loved ones, the Long Pool Recreation Area has something to offer. We hope you enjoyed reading about this enchanting place and we invite you to visit again soon. Until then, keep on exploring and discovering new adventures!