Visiting the Greers Ferry Dam and JFK Overlook: A journey through Arkansas history

Sometimes you scroll through your camera roll and realize just how far you’ve traveled—not just in miles, but in life. From this spot in Arkansas five years ago to Washington State today, life in an RV has been an incredible, unpredictable ride.

I’m not even sure how I got stuck in Arkansas for a couple of months back then. I’ve faced some heavy losses along the way, and things haven’t exactly been “great,” but I’m still standing. I’ve seen things most people only dream of, and that’s a gift I don’t take for granted. I may not have control over the curveballs life throws at me, but I have total control over my attitude. Even now, I feel deeply blessed.

‘The Greers Ferry Dam and the John F. Kennedy Overlook’ — A moment of memories both before my time and during.

Reflections from the road at Greers Ferry Lake

My traveling partners were awaiting their next exploration: the Greers Ferry Dam. It’s hard to look back at these photos without a heavy heart—RIP Maximus—but the memories of those quiet moments in the Arkansas Ozarks remain some of my favorites.

Keeping track of thousands of miles across the country is hard; I like using a digital photo frame to keep these memories front and center in the rig.

The history and purpose of Greers Ferry Dam

Built between 1956 and 1963, Greers Ferry Dam is the powerhouse of central Arkansas. Located on the Little Red River near Heber Springs, it serves as a vital piece of infrastructure for:

• Flood control: Keeping the surrounding region safe and dry.
• Hydroelectric power: Generating clean energy for the local area.
• Recreation: Creating the massive Greers Ferry Lake, a top destination for boating and fishing.

It is a massive concrete structure that transformed the landscape, turning a wild river into “nature’s perfect playground.”

Why you should stop at the John F. Kennedy overlook

The JFK Overlook isn’t just about the view; it’s about a moment in American history. In October 1963, President John F. Kennedy traveled to Arkansas to dedicate the dam. It was actually one of his last public appearances before his fateful trip to Dallas.

Today, the overlook named in his honor allows visitors to stand where a president once stood. It offers a stunning, panoramic view of the dam and the lake below. It’s a nice spot to snap a photo and take in those classic Arkansas vistas that make RV life so rewarding.

Finding your own silver lining

If you find yourself near Heber Springs, take a moment to visit this slice of history. It’s a place of purpose, style, and beauty.

What’s your story? Lately, I’ve learned that even when the road gets rocky, you have to look for the silver lining. It’s there even in the hardest of times. Be blessed and bless others.

Life in an RV is unpredictable, but staying connected at remote spots like Greers Ferry is easier with WeBoost to help strengthen that signal.