Mile 619.0 LBD — 621 Island 67
Designated Left Bank only because the center line of the river crowds the Arkansas shore around Wood Cottage (619.6). This resplendent sun-drenched island sits middle river with big flowing channels on either side, a very deep main channel that gets crushed towards the shore and a shallower back channel that is open until lower water levels, shuts completely off around 10HG.
As you approach from up river Island 67 seems to dance on the top of the river mid channel equidistant from either bank. In the full sun it shimmers like a sail boat viewed over the sea. In cloudy weather it reminds one of a moody scene from Ireland or the Aleutian Peninsula. This is a place filled with endless light and the colors of the sky and the water. The island is mostly sand with a few muddy patches that come and go according to the fluctuations of the river currents and water level. Outdoor artists like Walter Anderson would have loved Island 67. It sits somewhere between heaven and earth perched on the face of the biggest river in North America.
Island 67 sits far enough away from forests on either side that there are less mosquitoes and few predators. But also no deer or other mammals. At low water coyotes sometimes cross the sandbars in search of midnight snacks washed up by the river. The nesting Least Tern loves the remoteness of this island, and its also the favorite nesting site for Canada Geese. Paddlers ought to avoid camping here during Goose nesting season (April-June). If you make landing and find goose eggs, please don't camp. Their preferred nesting is under the willows straddling the highest dunes. The sensitive Canada geese will easily abandon nesting sites -- and your conscience will have to bear the weight of dozens of unborn goslings.
Of course this openness leaves Island 67 subject to storms, wind and any severe weather. Choose landings accordingly, and make campsites only when necessary. Always tie down your vessel in any landing subject to wind, waves, and changing water levels. You will have a very long swim if you lose your vessel here!