Lake Dardanelle — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Lake Dardanelle, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Lake Dardanelle today is 21.3°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 68°F (20°C) to 74°F (23°C). The water is warm and pleasant for swimming, and in this range, one can stay in the water for extended periods without the risk of hypothermia. This is the ideal temperature for relaxation, swimming, and water sports. Families with children, as well as outdoor enthusiasts, will enjoy swimming and time spent in the water. For most people, this is the optimal temperature for a comfortable beach experience. It is important to note that these swimming tips and recommendations apply only in good weather. When the air temperature is below 68°F (20°C), and sometimes even below 77°F (25°C), swimming can be unpleasant even with relatively high water temperatures.
Water Temperature Chart Over the Last 30 Days
Table of Daily Sea Temperature Data
| Date | Current | Average | Forecast |
|---|---|---|---|
| OCT 5 | 23.8°C | 21.7°C | |
| OCT 6 | 23.7°C | 21.7°C | |
| OCT 7 | 23.2°C | 21.7°C | |
| OCT 8 | 22.5°C | 21.7°C | |
| OCT 9 | 22.3°C | 21.7°C | |
| OCT 10 | 22.5°C | 21.7°C | |
| OCT 11 | 22.0°C | 21.7°C | |
| OCT 12 | 21.5°C | 21.7°C | |
| OCT 13 | 21.7°C | 21.3°C | |
| OCT 14 | 21.7°C | 21.3°C | |
| OCT 15 | 21.7°C | 21.4°C | |
| OCT 16 | 21.7°C | 21.4°C | |
| OCT 17 | 21.7°C | 21.4°C | |
| OCT 18 | 21.7°C | 21.4°C | |
| OCT 19 | 21.7°C | 21.4°C |
* Current - Actual water temperature value
** Average - Average water temperature on this day in recent years
*** Forecast - Our water temperature forecast
Actual nearshore water temperatures may fluctuate by several degrees from the reported values, especially following heavy rainfall or extended periods of strong winds. Certain wind patterns can cause colder, deeper waters to rise and replace the sun-warmed surface water, leading to noticeable variations.
Our forecast is based on a proprietary mathematical model that considers real-time water temperature changes, historical trends, key weather patterns, wind strength and direction, and air temperature specific to each region. Additionally, we incorporate data from other resorts to enhance accuracy.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 2°C | 7°C | 12°C |
| February | 2°C | 7°C | 13°C |
| March | 4°C | 13°C | 22°C |
| April | 4°C | 13°C | 21°C |
| May | 16°C | 21°C | 26°C |
| June | 19°C | 23°C | 28°C |
| July | 25°C | 28°C | 32°C |
| August | 24°C | 28°C | 32°C |
| September | 23°C | 27°C | 30°C |
| October | 19°C | 22°C | 24°C |
| November | 10°C | 15°C | 19°C |
| December | 6°C | 10°C | 15°C |
Lake Dardanelle: Water Temperature by Location
Lake Dardanelle: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Lake Dardanelle, a large reservoir on the Arkansas River, experiences water temperatures consistent with the region's climate. In the cool winter months, the surface water temperature typically ranges from the 40s to low 50s F (4∘C to 13∘C). During the peak summer season (July and August), the shallow surface layer warms significantly, often reaching a very comfortable and warm range for swimming, generally peaking between 75∘F and 82∘F (24∘C to 28∘C).
Swimming is widely permitted and encouraged in Lake Dardanelle, as both Lake Dardanelle State Park (in Russellville) and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers recreation areas like Piney Bay and Shoal Bay feature designated swimming beaches. This confirms that swimming is a supported recreational activity. However, these designated beaches are typically unsupervised by lifeguards, meaning all swimming is strictly at one's own risk. Furthermore, the Arkansas Department of Health monitors the water for E. coli, and temporary closures or advisories are common after heavy rainfall when bacterial levels may exceed acceptable limits.