Lake Leatherwood City Park is Eureka Springs’ outdoor crown jewel — a 1,600-acre park wrapped around a spring-fed lake, with about 25 miles of hiking and mountain-biking trails, a dedicated downhill gravity bike park, boating and fishing, swimming, and cabins and camping. It’s one of the premier riding destinations in the Midwest and part of the OZ Trails network.
About Lake Leatherwood
The centerpiece is an 85-acre lake held back by one of the largest hand-cut limestone dams in the country, built in the 1940s. Around it, the park offers two distinct mountain-biking experiences — an extensive cross-country (XC) trail network and a lift-free downhill gravity park with shuttle-friendly descents — plus miles of hiking, all just minutes from downtown Eureka Springs.
Mountain Biking & Trails
Lake Leatherwood is a bucket-list stop for Northwest Arkansas riders. The XC trails wind through forest and along the lakeshore for all ability levels, while the gravity park serves up purpose-built downhill runs. For trail maps, difficulty ratings, shuttle info, and current conditions, see our sister site NWA Bike Trails and the OZ Trails network.
On the Water & Around the Park
- Boating & paddling — kayak, canoe, and paddleboard the no-gas-motor lake; seasonal rentals are often available at the marina.
- Fishing — bass, crappie, and catfish (Arkansas fishing license required for anglers 16+).
- Swimming — a designated swim area (at your own risk).
- Hiking & wildlife watching — miles of trails and a scenic lake loop.
- Stay overnight — cabins, plus tent and RV camping.
Good to Know
- Cost: Free day-use for the park and trails; fees apply for cabins, camping, and rentals.
- Great for: Mountain bikers (XC and downhill), families, paddlers, and campers.
- Bring: Helmet and water for riding; check trail conditions after rain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lake Leatherwood good for mountain biking?
Yes — it’s one of the premier mountain-biking destinations in the Midwest, with about 25 miles of trails including an extensive cross-country network and a dedicated downhill gravity park. See NWA Bike Trails for maps and conditions.
Can you swim or fish at Lake Leatherwood?
Yes. The park has a designated swim area (swim at your own risk) and fishing for bass, crappie, and catfish. Anglers 16 and older need an Arkansas fishing license.
Is there camping at Lake Leatherwood?
Yes. The park offers cabins as well as tent and RV camping, plus day-use access to trails, the lake, and picnic areas.
Location & Directions
- Address: 1303 County Rd 204, Eureka Springs, AR 72632
- Managed by: Eureka Springs Parks
- Cost: Free day-use (fees for cabins/camping/rentals)
Back to Outdoor Recreation in Eureka Springs or Things to Do in Eureka Springs.