The Lee Creek run from Devils Den State Park down to Highway 220 offers a dynamic escape for paddlers seeking an approachable yet thrilling whitewater experience in northwest Arkansas. As you launch your craft near the park at just under a thousand feet elevation, the river stretches over roughly 8.7 miles, dropping about 230 feet, carving its way through a landscape that challenges and rewards with every rapid. The current pushes confidently over rocky ledges and into swift pools, inviting boaters with a blend of moderate difficulty Class II and III rapids that encourage focused paddling without demanding expert precision at every turn.

The initial section, though less run compared to the lower stretches, introduces a handful of solid rapids. However, paddlers must stay alert to dense strainer patches near the Blackburn Creek confluence, a known hazard territory that tests your river reading and maneuvering skills. For those just starting to push into more adventurous water, the lower segment from the new Highway 220 bridge down is rightly favored. Here, the gradient softens slightly but the water’s energy doesn’t wane — instead, it concentrates on short, punchy rapids full of play spots and technical challenges.

This lower run is a playground especially in spring and fall when flows between 4.5 to 6 feet at the USGS Short gauge bring the rapids alive with surfable holes, pocket waves, and ledges that beg for a quick catch and release. Football Field Rapids stretch wide and fast, riffled with wave trains and a notable "Touchdown Wave" that rewards edge control and timing. El Horrendo follows—a ledge that expanded after a mid-90s tree washout but remains an exciting feature, blending smooth water with opportunity for quick lines.

The water’s personality really expresses itself at Surfing Ledges, where holes offer sustained rides for those ready to stake their line, and at Buck-N-Flush, a rapid with a storied past. Once infamous for an aggressive stopper hole, this rapid has calmed somewhat since the year 2000 floods reshuffled gravel deposits and raised pool levels, but it still demands respect and strategic navigation. A cautious left line around the central hole lets paddlers slide safely without scrambles, although the rapid’s waves continue downstream, pumping adrenaline towards the takeout.

Reaching Highway 220 is straightforward with a short gravel road leading to a well-maintained National Forest Service ramp. Public access is reliable, making shuttling a manageable task whether you opt for a quick walk or vehicle run. The full experience runs best when flows hover around 5 to 6 feet—outside this range, the river can feel either too shallow or crowded with intense hydraulics.

Prepare for your trip with sturdy footwear that can hold firm on rocky approaches, and hydrating constantly—this river demands attention and endurance over its mid-length stretch. Expect vibrant forests pressing close to the riverbank, the hum of water shifting over boulders, and the crisp, clear air that only the Ozarks can deliver. Lee Creek strikes a balance between exhilarating whitewater play and accessible adventure, making it a compelling destination for paddlers ready to test their skills in a setting that never feels routine.

Plan your launch based on up-to-date gauge readings, respect the powerful strainers upstream, and savor the tactical thrill of Lee Creek’s rapids. Whether it's your first time engaging with these waters or a return visit to refine your moves, this river section promises a stirring encounter with Arkansas's wild heart.