Hernando Point reopens at Arkabutla
A post from DeSoto County Government on Facebook reports that the Hernando Point Day Use area is back open at Arkabutla Lake.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers made the announcement during a meeting with County Supervisor Lee Caldwell and Emergency Services Deputy Director Josh Harper, and local leaders.
The meeting focused on dam repairs, upcoming safety improvements, and the formation of a Local Partnership Team to improve communication and collaboration with surrounding communities.
Hernando Point closed in January 2020 when an EF-1 tornado went through, resulting in the closure of the campground, boat ramp, and day use facilities.
The closure allowed the Corps of Engineers to carry out extensive rehabilitation work, including debris removal and tree restoration.
The rehabilitation project has resulted in the following:
- A new basketball court
- Restrooms
- Picnic tables
- 76-site campground with full hookups
- Fishing pond with a wooden pier
- Playground and a reservable pavilion
Highway 51 Landing remains the only open boat ramp, but camping and many other recreational areas around the lake remain open.
At the meeting, it was also announced that Phase II of the Interim Risk Reduction Measures (IRRM) is set to begin this summer. Crews will inject grout into underground spaces beneath the dam to strengthen the foundation. These steps are part of an ongoing effort to reduce risk while long-term repairs are designed and constructed.
