05/30/2026
I'm really proud to be part of this as a media sponsor and I'll be there with a free kids craft from 10-2 tomorrow. ❤️
Lake Wedington will reopen to the public for one day on Saturday, May 30, during “Free Lake Day,” a community event hosted by Darling Retreats in partnership with Friends of Lake Wedington. The free event will take place from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and invites families, outdoor enthusiasts, and longtime visitors back to the lake for a full day of outdoor recreation in the Ozark National Forest.
The day’s schedule includes children’s activities from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., community yoga, an open mic from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m., and live music from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Free hot dogs will be available at noon while supplies last, along with afternoon coffee and cake. Kayaks and fishing poles will also be available to borrow throughout the day.
Organizers recently confirmed the lake passed three recent water quality tests — two conducted by the Arkansas Department of Health and one by the University of Arkansas Water Quality Laboratory — allowing for public swimming during the Free Lake Day event.
Attendees are encouraged to swim at their own risk, as no lifeguards will be present, and are welcome to bring floats, fishing gear, kayaks, coolers, and picnic supplies. Organizers ask guests to leave alcohol and dogs at home in accordance with U.S. Forest Service guidelines and for the safety and comfort of all attendees.
The event is supported by community sponsors including the Arkansas Office of Outdoor Recreation, Ozarks Electric Cooperative, Tyler Dees for Senate, Annedella for Justice of the Peace, Gypsy Camp & Canoe, Arkansas Portable Toilets, and Macaroni KID- Fayetteville, with additional support from Hogeye Marathon and Relays, Walmart Neighborhood Market Store #5737, Just Us Printing, Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, and Sam’s Club Fayetteville.
Lake Wedington Recreation Area was established in 1938 and is located in the Ozark National Forest approximately 13 miles from Farmington, Fayetteville, and Siloam Springs. Friends of Lake Wedington was established in 1988 to help preserve the region’s historic treasure.
For updates and event information, visit DarlingRetreats.com or the Lake Wedington Free Lake Day event page on Facebook.
Friends of Lake Wedington
