Lake Sequoyah is Fayetteville’s quiet paddling-and-fishing lake — a scenic, no-wake reservoir on the southeast edge of town, ringed by wetlands and woods. With a boat ramp, kayak-friendly water, good bass and crappie fishing, and a couple of shoreline nature trails, it’s a peaceful escape just minutes from downtown.
About Lake Sequoyah
Covering roughly 390 acres of water, Lake Sequoyah is managed by the City of Fayetteville as a low-key outdoor spot — a no-wake lake, which keeps it calm and ideal for kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and small fishing boats. Its shallow coves and surrounding wetlands make it a haven for birds and wildlife. Note it’s a separate lake from Lake Fayetteville (which sits on the north side of town).
Things to Do
- Paddling — kayak, canoe, or paddleboard the calm, no-wake water; there’s a boat ramp and courtesy dock.
- Fishing — largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish (a city permit is required to fish or launch a boat).
- Hiking — the King Fisher Trail (~1.9 miles) and Rookery Trail (~2 miles) follow the shoreline and wetlands.
- Wildlife watching — herons, waterfowl, and other birds along the quiet coves.
Good to Know
- No-wake lake: Great for paddling; no high-speed boating or skiing.
- Permits: A City of Fayetteville permit is required to fish or launch — available locally or online.
- Location: Southeast Fayetteville, about 10 minutes from downtown.
- Great for: A quiet paddle, shoreline hike, or laid-back fishing trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you kayak on Lake Sequoyah?
Yes — it’s a no-wake lake, so it’s calm and ideal for kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards. There’s a boat ramp and courtesy dock.
Do you need a permit to fish Lake Sequoyah?
Yes — a City of Fayetteville permit is required to fish or launch a boat, in addition to an Arkansas fishing license for anglers 16 and older.
Is Lake Sequoyah the same as Lake Fayetteville?
No — they’re two different lakes. Lake Sequoyah is on the southeast side of town; Lake Fayetteville is on the north side.
Location & Directions
- Location: Lake Sequoyah Park, southeast Fayetteville, AR 72701
- Managed by: City of Fayetteville (permit required)
Back to Parks in Fayetteville or Things to Do in Fayetteville.