Welcome to Arkabutla Lake

-- Notice --

Arkabutla Lake will be experiencing substantially lower water levels for an extended period of time. Long-term repairs to Arkabutla Dam must be completed before water levels can return to normal. This affects boating access and water-based activities on the lake. Many boat ramps are currently closed with Hwy. 51 Landing being the only open ramp. Most day use and campground facilities remain open for public use. For more information, please contact the Arkabutla Lake Field Office at 662-562-6261 or 662-292-1992.


 

Located in both Tate and DeSoto counties in north Mississippi, Arkabutla Lake’s remote location has long been an ideal setting for a serene retreat.  In 2023, issues discovered on Arkabutla Dam forced the lake level to be lowered and significantly impacted boating and fishing opportunities at the Lake. Arkabutla Lake offers plenty of opportunity for anyone seeking recreational opportunities. 

There are trails for hiking or biking and many of our amenities are ADA accessible, such as playgrounds in addition to accessible sites in our beautiful campgrounds.  There are pavilions available for gatherings and many scenic picnic sites. Arkabutla also offers more than 30,000 acres of land open for public hunting and numerous activities for public involvement. We are certain there is something for everyone!

Whether it’s hunting, hiking, or just enjoying the outdoors, Arkabutla Lake provides a variety of opportunities for all outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy.  Please take the time to browse our website.  Even better, come discover us for yourself.

Arkabutla Lake has a Visitor Information Center that offers an array of informational materials, such as, brochures, project regulations, camping information and area maps.  You will also find several interesting exhibits and displays that explain the missions of the Corps at Arkabutla Lake.  The Visitor Information Center is open weekdays from 7:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.

 

      You can Find us on FaceBook 

 

Click here for the 2026 Arkabutla Lake Archery Hunt Application


Click here for the 2026 Arkabutla Lake Physically Challenged Deer Hunt Application

 

 

 
       

 

Recreation Regulation Reminders:

RULES AND REGULATIONS GOVERNING PUBLIC USE OF CORPS OF ENGINEERS WATER RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS Title 36 Section 327.14a states that “ destruction, defacement, removal, or any alteration of public property [which includes archeological features] is prohibited.” Find additional recreation regulations here:  https://www.mvk.usace.army.mil/Missions/Recreation/Rules-and-Regulations/

The Archaeological Resources Protection Act (ARPA) of 1979, amended 1988, prohibits individuals from removing, selling, purchasing, exchanging, transporting or receiving Native American artifacts from federal lands without a permit. Individuals who violate this law could face fines of up to $100,000 and imprisonment for up to 5 years.

Additionally, the Native American Graves and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) of 1990 makes it a criminal offense for individuals to transport Native American remains without appropriate permission. First offense penalties include up to 12 months imprisonment and a $100,000 fine.


Concerning drone usage:

Title 36, Section 327.04 Aircraft.

(a) This section pertains to all aircraft including, but not limited to, airplanes, seaplanes, helicopters, ultra-light aircraft, motorized hang gliders, hot air balloons, any non-powered flight devices or any other such equipment.

(b) The operation of aircraft on project lands at locations other than those designated by the District Engineer is prohibited. This provision shall not be applicable to aircraft engaged on official business of Federal, state or local governments or law enforcement agencies, aircraft used in emergency rescue in accordance with the directions of the District Engineer or aircraft forced to land due to circumstances beyond the control of the operator.

(c) No person shall operate any aircraft while on or above project waters or project lands in a careless, negligent or reckless manner so as to endanger any person or property.

Contact Us

Phone: 662-562-6261

Alternate Phone Number: 662-292-1992

Arkabutla Lake Field Office address:
5500 Arkabutla Dam Road
Hernando, MS 38632

Fax: 662-562-8916
 

Arkabutla Lake Location

Arkabutla Lake Map

Latest Project News

  • USACE Vicksburg District to conduct vegetation management at Arkabutla Lake

    **UPDATE (Aug. 13, 2026): Aerial vegetation spraying is scheduled to begin Aug. 17, pending favorable weather conditions and lake pool elevation.** For more information, visit https://www.mvk.usace.army.mil/Missions/Programs-and-Project-Management/Project-Management/Projects/Arkabutla-Project-Page/. ARKABULTA, Miss. – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Vicksburg District will conduct an aerial herbicide application to manage woody aquatic vegetation over approximately 5,500 acres of USACE-managed property at Arkabutla Lake.
  • USACE Vicksburg District to pause Phase II interim repairs at Arkabutla Dam to lower the lake level

    Vicksburg, Miss. – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Vicksburg District will temporarily pause Phase II of interim risk reduction measures (IRRMs) at Arkabutla Dam this week to safely release water and lower the lake level.
  • Recommended plan identified for long-term solutions at Arkabutla Dam; Draft Environmental Assessment review period open until July 25, 2026

    Vicksburg, Miss. – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Vicksburg District continues to prioritize safety and risk reduction at Arkabutla Dam, located in northwest Mississippi, in response to significant concerns discovered in March 2023, when a depression was found near the toe of the dam.
  • USACE to begin Phase II Interim Risk Reduction Measures at Arkabutla Dam

    Vicksburg, Miss – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Vicksburg District is beginning Phase II of interim risk reduction measures (IRRMs) at Arkabutla Dam. This work will further stabilize the dam and reduce risks for downstream communities. Work is scheduled to begin next week and includes grouting the conduit (tunnel through the dam) foundation to fill voids and prevent further loss of material through the dam. To safely access the area, crews have closed the dam’s gates, which will temporarily stop releases.
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