Heber Springs set to charge for access to Sandy Beach at Greers Ferry Lake

HEBER SPRINGS, Ark. – A staple spot for people visiting Greers Ferry Lake will soon have a cost for those wanting to use it.

Sandy Beach in Heber Springs is a popular area to enjoy Greers Ferry Lake in Cleburne County, a place where many people have and still are creating memories.

“I’ve been coming here since I was a little girl,” Regina Foushee said.

Codee Brown said, “We come every year and it’s always a blast.”

According to Heber Springs Mayor Kasey Griffin, in a couple of weeks, visits will cost a fee of $5 per car per day or $40 for a year pass.

A kiosk has also been installed to process payment. Griffen said the fee is in an effort to make it more of a park-like atmosphere.

Griffin said the money will go towards improvements within the park and the parks and recreation department.

This would be the first time a payment is required for the beachgoers.

“I mean everything costs so much all the time anyways, just let us in joy it,” Foushee said, who added it would have cost her “15 bucks to get in today.”

The mayor said this decision was made to help with disorderly conduct like out-of-control parties and people leaving their trash behind.

“I don’t think it’s bad,” Brown said. “I mean we will still come.”

One beachgoer said, “it’s a bummer, but at the same time maybe it’s a good thing.”

Griffen said the kiosk was just installed this week and the reason the city is waiting a couple of weeks to operate it is so the public can have some time to be prepared for the change.

The mayor did not provide a specific date for when the change will take place.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLRT - FOX16.com.