Lake Wedington Recreation Area is a scenic, old-fashioned getaway in the Ozark National Forest just west of Fayetteville — a 102-acre lake ringed by historic 1930s cabins, a swimming area, hiking and mountain-biking trails, and quiet camping. Built by the Works Progress Administration, it’s a charming, low-key spot for a swim, a paddle, a hike, or a rustic cabin weekend.
About Lake Wedington
About 13 miles west of Fayetteville on Highway 16, Lake Wedington sits in the Boston Mountain Ranger District of the Ozark National Forest. The 102-acre lake and its surrounding recreation area were developed in the 1930s, and much of that WPA-era stone-and-timber character survives — most notably in the six historic cabins that overlook the water. It’s a peaceful, uncrowded alternative to the region’s bigger lakes.
Things to Do
- Swim at the designated (wheelchair-accessible) swimming area.
- Fish from the accessible fishing pier or a boat (electric motors only; boat launch on site).
- Hike & mountain bike — a lakeshore trail circles the water, and the North Twin Trail offers about 7 miles of hiking and mountain biking.
- Paddle the calm lake by kayak or canoe.
- Picnic at the pavilion, with volleyball and horseshoes nearby.
Cabins & Camping
The area’s six refurbished WPA cabins are air-conditioned, have full kitchenettes, and sleep three to six people — a genuinely special place to stay. There are also about 18 primitive campsites (no hookups) and picnic sites. Cabins and campsites can be reserved through Recreation.gov; book the cabins well ahead, as they’re popular. For more camping ideas, see our sister site Make Camping Fun.
Good to Know
- Day-use fee: A small per-vehicle fee applies for day use and the boat launch (standard Forest Service rates).
- Location: ~13 miles west of Fayetteville on Hwy 16.
- Best season: Late spring through early fall for swimming; spring and fall for hiking and biking.
- Great for: A quiet swim or paddle, a family hike, and a rustic cabin stay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you swim at Lake Wedington?
Yes — there’s a designated, wheelchair-accessible swimming area on the lake (swim at your own risk).
Can you rent a cabin at Lake Wedington?
Yes. Six historic WPA cabins — air-conditioned, with kitchenettes, sleeping three to six — can be reserved through Recreation.gov. Book early.
How far is Lake Wedington from Fayetteville?
About 13 miles west of Fayetteville on Highway 16, in the Ozark National Forest.
Location & Directions
- Location: ~13 miles west of Fayetteville on Hwy 16 (Ozark National Forest)
- Managed by: Ozark–St. Francis National Forest
- Reservations: Recreation.gov
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