The Siloam Springs Kayak Park is a beautiful amenity about four miles south of the City of Siloam Springs. We invite you to enjoy the Park responsibly. Here are some Frequently Asked Questions with answers that might help. This is a part of the Illinois River, so please use caution and personal judgment while using the Park.
WHAT IS THE COST OF USING THE PARK?
There is no admission fee at the Park. The Siloam Springs Kayak Park is free to all users.
WHAT ARE THE HOURS OF OPERATION?
The Park is open from 5:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
HOW DO I GET TO THE PARK?
From Highway 412 in Siloam Springs, take Lincoln Street (Highway 59 South) south 1.9 miles to Devor Road. Take a left on Devor Road and travel .4 miles to Fisher Ford Road. Turn right on Fisher Ford Road and follow it all the way to the park. Address is 19253 Fisher Ford Road.
CAN I RENT A KAYAK AT THE PARK?
At this time, no. There is not a commercial outfitter at the facility. However, there are commercial outfitters nearby who run shuttles to the park. You may rent boats from one of these outfitters.
CAN I BUY FOOD AND DRINKS AT THE PARK?
At this time, no. Concessions are not available at the site. That means users need to bring their own food and drinks to the park- including bottled water.
Please remember that the consumption of alcohol is prohibited on Park property.
WHAT TYPES OF VESSELS ARE ACCEPTABLE FOR THE PARK?
Kayaks, canoes and even tubes are acceptable. However, ALL users are strongly encouraged to wear life jackets.
It is also NOT RECOMMENDED to “free swim” through the rapids.
ARE LIFEJACKETS AND PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICES AVAILABLE ON SITE?
Users should bring their own Personal Flotation Devices/Lifejackets. In the event that you forget, there is a lifejacket loaner station at the park. You may borrow a lifejacket for the day and return before you leave.
It is strongly recommended that ALL users wear life jackets.
IS THERE A LIFEGUARD ON DUTY OR A FIRST AID STATION AT THE PARK?
No. There is no lifeguard on duty or first aid station. All users need to use safety precautions.
ARE LIFEJACKETS MANDATORY?
The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission can issue citations for boaters and tubers not using lifejackets.
IS THERE ANY STAFF LOCATED AT THE PARK?
The Siloam Springs Police Department does patrol the area and will frequently visit the Park. However, there is not staff on duty full-time during park hours.
What is not allowed at the Kayak Park?
The consumption of alcohol is prohibited on City property
The use of charcoal or wood burning grills is prohibited. (Gas/propane grills are OK)
Parking in the grass or restricted areas is not allowed.
Violations of the code can result in a citation.
IS THE PARK NATURAL OR ENGINEERED?
The rapids have been engineered. Additionally, the shoreline has been altered in some areas.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME FOR A KAYAKER OR CANOER TO VISIT?
The Park is designed for kayakers to enjoy the rapids best between 200 and 600 cfs. Weekend afternoons are often busy with tubers and families and can make kayaking and canoeing difficult.
The Park will close when the gage AR59 reaches 2500cfs. This means the park could close earlier due to advanced flood notices.
WILL I SEE SNAKES AT THE PARK?
Since the Park is situated along the Illinois River and along a river bank, it is possible that snakes will be present. Please use caution.