The Abandoned Dogpatch USA in Arkansas: One of the Eeriest Places in America

By now, you certainly have heard about Dogpatch USA, the abandoned amusement park that's located in Marble Falls off Scenic Highway 7, right? In fact, it was once deemed one of the eeriest places in America by Insider magazine. Before it earned such an ignominious reputation, however, this theme park attracted thousands of visitors who came from near and far to enjoy the family-friendly entertainment and attractions it offered. Let’s take a quick walk down memory lane and see what’s left of Dogpatch USA theme park and what plans are in store for the property's future.

The park was the brainchild of O.J. Snow, a real estate agent who had always dreamt of a pioneer-themed amusement park. Dogpatch USA was built on a trout farm and themed around the classic and once-popular comic strip "Lil' Abner." The park officially opened to the public in 1968

At one point, it was a fun place for families who enjoyed horseback riding, paddle boating, waterslides, roller coasters, and other activities. In addition, visitors would find music and Lil' Abner characters at the park. They could even go fishing, visit a petting zoo, and tour caverns - all of which were just part of the fun to be had at Dogpatch USA.

Along with all of Dogpatch USA's attractions, there was even a tram that carried folks into the 825-acre park from the parking lot (much like a certain larger, more well-known theme park in Florida). You didn't even have to line up for the rides or activities to enjoy the park. Rather, you could visit the restaurants on the property, stroll its paths and footbridges past gorgeous waterfalls, and even a mill.

Clearly, there was plenty to do and see at this family-friendly theme park, so it’s no wonder that it was so successful when it opened. In its first year, Dogpatch USA entertained approximately 300,000 visitors and was projected to host over a million per year within its first decade in business. Unfortunately, the park never saw such numbers. Instead, due to financial constraints, lawsuits, as well as other misfortune, Dogpatch USA was forced to close its gates in 1993. Since then, what was once a place filled with laughter, joyful screams, and music became an eerie, abandoned amusement park overrun by nature.

Over the years, ownership of the property has changed hands, and in 2020, the park was purchased by the CEO of Bass Pro Shops, who unveiled a plan for turning this eerie, abandoned theme park into Marble Falls Nature Park. Although work continues to progress on this undertaking, the old Dogpatch USA signpost is still visible at the site.

So, did you have a chance to visit Dogpatch USA when it was open? Be sure to tell us about some other once-popular spots in Arkansas that nature is now reclaiming. Also, if you love theme parks, you'll definitely want to check out some of our favorite amusement parks in Arkansas and create some new memories with your family.