7 Stunning Arkansas State Parks Where You Can Camp All Year-Round
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Melanie Johnson
Author
Camping is one of our favorite past-time activities in Arkansas. And of course, when you live in the Natural State there are tons of places to camp. But the state park campgrounds are incredible because they offer unique outdoor experiences. There are 32 state parks that offer camping, so how do you begin to narrow down which ones to choose? Well, have no fear, we have selected seven unique state parks that offer the best year-round camping that you will love.
Petit Jean State Park–Lake Bailey–Roosevelt Lake Historic District, AR 72110, USA
We had to start with Petit Jean because it’s Arkansas’ first state park. This gorgeous park is cradled between the Ouachita Mountains and the Ozark Plateau. Not only is it one of the most beautiful parks, but it has endless outdoor activities. They include fishing, kayaking, swimming pools, playgrounds, tennis and basketball courts, and much more. Additionally, the hiking trails lead to unique rock formations, towering bluffs, as well as stunning waterfalls. There are 125 campsites available - 35 Class AAA and 90 Class B. However, there are yurts, cabins, and a lodge for a more luxurious experience.
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Queen Wilhelmina State Park, 3877 AR-88, Mena, AR 71953, USA
Nestled at the top of Rich Mountain in Mena is Queen Wilhelmina State Park. Known for its sweeping views of the Ouachita Mountains, this park offers the only scenic tour from a miniature train. Additionally, there are guided and self-guided hikes through the mountain that will reveal stunning views, breathtaking lookout points, and wildlife. The campground offers 41 campsites, 8 with Class A camping and 27 with Class B. Also, there are five tent sites with water hookups and one hike-in tent site. If you want something a bit more comfortable, there are 3 inns boasting first-class hospitality at the park.
Village Creek State Park, 201 County Road 754, Wynne, AR 72396, USA
If you enjoy horseback riding, then you will love Village Creek State Park. Located at the top of Crowley’s Ridge in eastern Arkansas, this 7,000-acre park boasts a world-championship golf course, a clubhouse, hiking and equestrian trails, two lakes, a small museum, picnic areas, and more. There are 96 hookup campsites with bathhouses, but best of all, the park has 30 campsites at the equestrian facility. Of course, there are one-to-three-bedroom cabins as well if you prefer a glamping experience.
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Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area Visitor Center, 20201 AR-12, Rogers, AR 72756, USA
With over 12,000-acres of land to explore, Hobbs State Park is the largest in the system. Tucked along the shores of the pristine Beaver Lake in Rogers, it’s the perfect place to fully immerse into nature. In addition to water recreation, there are tons of biking trails, and the park is the only state park that offers regulated hunting during the year. And if you enjoy seclusion and primitive camping, then you must take advantage of one of the 11 campsites. Best of all, the remote campsites are accessible by bike, and some have waterfront views.
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Moro Bay State Park Pvt, Arkansas 71651, USA
If you’re a fishing enthusiast, then you’ll enjoy hooking largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and more, at Moro Bay State Park. This 117-acre park is where Raymond Lake and Moro Bay meet the Ouachita River. Recreation includes hiking trails, fishing, boating, volleyball, picnic and playground areas, as well as a historic ferry exhibit. There is also a full-service marina where you can rent boats, canoes, kayaks, and more. The park has beautiful lakefront cabins, but you can camp year-round in one of the 23 Class AAA campsites.
Devil's Den State Park, 11333 West Arkansas Hwy. 74, Winslow, AR 72774, USA
Views, views, and more views. For some of the most amazing vistas in Arkansas, you’ll want to visit Devil’s Den State Park. Home to one of the most iconic overlooks, the Yellow Rock Overlook, this 2,200-acre park is a photographer's dream come true. There are also breathtaking waterfalls, caverns, and gorgeous multi-use trails through the Ozark National Forest. It’s a great place to view the gorgeous fall foliage. And with 135 campsites ranging from Class AAA to primitive camping as well as 17 luxury cabins, you’ll find the perfect site to suit your needs.
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Mississippi River State Park, 2955 State Hwy 44, Marianna, AR 72360, USA
If we included the first state park, it’s only right that we end with the newest, right? With access to the St. Francis River National Forest and the mighty Mississippi River, this state park is perfect for the outdoor enthusiast. There are other multiple lakes and rivers inside the park, and it is home to the confluence of the St. Francis and the Mississippi Rivers. This means there are lots to explore both on water and along the many hiking trails. There are 2 recreational areas with 45 campsites that offer Class AAA to primitive camping, some of which have waterfront views. You’ll want to bring your kayak or boat to this park, or you can rent them at the visitor center.
So, have you done any year-round camping at these state parks? If not, which is your favorite park to go camping? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.
And for more outdoor fun, here’s a great rural road trip that explores the Arkansas Delta region.
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