Spring break is here and that means we get a break from school, but that doesn’t mean you have to take a break from discovering new things. Arkansas State Parks are a great way to get active – both physically and mentally. At our state parks, you can learn a new hobby, explore new places or old favorites and experience one-of-a-kind adventures. ​

Spring is generally a great time to visit our state parks, as the weather is often mild and comfortable for outdoor activities like hiking, camping and picnicking.  Looking for a route to take on during your trip? Visit arkansasstateparks.com/trails for a rundown of the variety of trails that can be found at Arkansas State Parks. One memorable way to learn on the trails is by exploring our world-class Monument Trails. Located at Hobbs, Pinnacle, Mount Nebo, and Devil’s Den state parks, this network of trails shows off the beauty of the state and can be explored on foot or by bike. Monument Trails provides users with access to some of the most stunning views in The Natural State, including waterfalls, mountain views and ancient rock formations. 

If you’re looking to get on the water, you can rent a paddleboard, kayak, canoe, or boat to experience our crystal-clear waters. At Lake Ouachita State Park you can enjoy Arkansas’ largest lake and state parks like DeGray Lake Resort State Park are popular for boating. Anglers can head to Bull Shoals-White River State Park for trout fishing, Millwood State Park for bass, or Lake Chicot State Park to catch bream, crappie, or catfish! On the lookout for more water experiences? Learn more about our lake and river state parks at arkansasstateparks.com/parks/lake-river-parks.

If you enjoy camping and being close to nature but prefer some of the comforts of home, staying at a YURT can be a good option. While you’re able to stay close to nature, YURTs at our state parks include beds and electricity. You can also opt for a camper cabin, that has heat/air, a porch and beds; all you need to do is bring linens. Modern bathhouses are nearby YURTs and camper cabins. 

Camping is also an adventurous avenue to get outdoors during spring break. There are many choices to choose from as 32 of our state parks have campsites! Arkansas’ first state park, Petit Jean State Park, has outdoor fun from hiking to rock climbing and has camping available too. Both beauty and history are on display in the Delta, where you can find campsites at state parks such as Crowley’s Ridge, Davidsonville, Jacksonport, Lake Charles, Lake Frierson, Lake Poinsett, Village Creek, Lake Chicot and Mississippi River. Nestled amongst the Ouachita Mountains are campsites at Daisy and Queen Wilhelmina state parks and mountain parks like Mount Nebo State Park also have camping. Check out arkansasstateparks.com/accommodations/camping for information on more options to choose from! Parks are a popular place during spring break so be sure to book your campsite soon if you are interested in experiencing a park venture in this way. You can find reservation details at reserve.arkansasstateparks.com/.
 

While you’re visiting our parks, be sure to look at events led by our park interpreters. We have special interpreter-led programs that help you feel comfortable learning something new, exploring new places on guided hikes and connecting to the park in a special, meaningful way. 

Don’t forget to take advantage of our Club 52 passport program so you can document your travels and earn rewards. There are several state parks close to each other, which makes it easy to visit multiple during your spring break. Stay at one as a home base and then explore others and the surrounding cities. Check out arkansasstateparks.com/parks to learn more about all our state parks and the fun experiences you can have in them. When you visit, please take note to Leave No Trace to help protect our state parks. 

Remember – Arkansas State Parks are free for everyone. However you plan to spend your spring break, we hope you are able to get outside and discover something new!