Grab your paddle — registration is now open for the 2026 Lyle Park Saline River Race & Family Festival in April.
Benton Parks & Recreation, in partnership with Saline River Canoe, will host the annual race on Saturday, April 25, 2026. The event begins at Peeler Bend and ends at Lyle Park, covering approximately 4 miles along the Saline River.
Medals will be awarded, and shirts and lunch will be provided. 1st-3rd Place Division winners will receive trophies.
Read more below.
There will be music, yard games and raffle prizes. Be prepared to participate in the Best Name Competition. There will be a Kayak giveaway provided by Everett Buick GMC.
Participants can compete in either Recreational or Competitive divisions, and racers may enter solo or tandem (with a partner). Must be age 10+ to participate in the race. Must be age 13+ to compete solo. Lifejackets are required to race.
Recreational Divisions must use equipment provided by Saline River Canoe. Canoes will be provided for Tandem, and kayaks will be provided for Solo Recreational Divisions. All participants competing in the Competitive Division must bring their own canoe or kayak.
Race Details
- Date: April 25, 2026
- Check-In: 8:00–9:00 a.m.
- Race Time: 10:00 a.m.
- Route: Peeler Bend to Lyle Park (Approx. 4 miles)
Click to go to the Google Map to Lyle Park in Benton, Arkansas.
Divisions Include:
- Canoe Race — Solo — Competitive
- Canoe Race — Solo — Recreational
- Canoe Race — Tandem — Competitive
- Canoe Race — Tandem — Recreational
Entry fees:
- $30 per participant (Solo Division)
- $60 per team (Tandem Division)
Registration runs February 20 through April 17. Organizers note there are no refunds after the registration deadline.
Register at this link:
For more information, contact [email protected] [or] 501.776.5970.
Browse the list of all the events in Saline County at www.mysaline.com/events.
