When it comes to Greers Ferry Lake, I have almost always visited the Dam Site in Heber Springs to go swimming. On a trip to Greers Ferry Lake recently, we decided we wanted to try a new swim beach. We searched and searched online and here is what we found…
Sandy Beach is the only public swim beach in Heber Springs, Arkansas. It is located at W. Front Street.
“Sandy Beach, which hosts the annual spectacular fireworks show and the cardboard boat races, offers a beach area to relax and swim, a volleyball court and a pavilion, which may be reserved for special occasions.” -source
After two days of swimming at Sandy Beach in Heber Springs, we decided that it wasn’t for us. It was quite crowded, loud and dirty.
You can read all about it here: [REVIEW] Sandy Beach in Heber Springs, AR.
I talked with a Heber Springs local and she said that locals prefer to swim at the Dam Site or at Old Hwy 25 campground. She told me that a lot of locals go to Sandy Beach just because it’s nearby but it’s not their preference.
Another local told me that the city staff really struggles with Sandy Beach. They expanded the beach over the winter to try and alleviate some of the crowding, but the high water prevents use of the new beach area during the spring (the water often rises in Greers Ferry Lake causing Sandy Beach to flood). There is no sewage line close enough for flush type toilets, so the vault-type restrooms or porta-potties are the only options. It is a challenge, at the very least.
Recap:
Sandy Beach is the only public beach in Heber Springs.
The Dam Site in Heber Springs has great swimming areas for a small day-use fee.
On the other side of the lake, in the town of Greers Ferry, you will find a quieter atmosphere for swimming than on the Heber Springs side.
Many people enjoy swimming at Old Hwy 25 campground or Cove Creek.
If you want to go to Sandy Beach, weekdays are less crowded.
Related articles