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How to Enjoy Dispersed Camping in Arkansas’s National Forests
Dispersed camping in Arkansas offers a serene escape into nature, free from the amenities of developed campgrounds. Both the Ozark-St. Francis and Ouachita National Forests permit this form of primitive

Federal Public Lands News: White Rock Road Reopens, New Motor Vehicle Maps Available, and a Summer Closure at Springhill Park
Several updates affecting Arkansas federal public lands were announced this week, including the reopening of
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How to Enjoy Dispersed Camping in Arkansas’s National Forests
Dispersed camping in Arkansas offers a serene escape into nature, free from the amenities of developed campgrounds. Both the Ozark-St. Francis and Ouachita National Forests permit this form of primitive camping, allowing adventurers to immerse themselves in the state’s natural beauty. Understanding Dispersed Camping Dispersed camping refers to camping outside designated campgrounds, without services like restrooms, trash removal, or potable water. Campers must be self-reliant and adhere to specific guidelines to minimize environmental impact. General Guidelines Location: Camp at least 100 feet from streams or water sources and avoid areas near developed recreation sites such as campgrounds, picnic areas, or

How to Enjoy Dispersed Camping in Arkansas’s National Forests
Dispersed camping in Arkansas offers a serene escape into nature, free from the amenities of developed campgrounds. Both the Ozark-St. Francis and Ouachita National Forests permit this form of primitive camping, allowing adventurers to immerse themselves in the state’s natural beauty. Understanding Dispersed Camping Dispersed camping refers to camping outside designated campgrounds, without services like restrooms, trash removal, or potable water. Campers must be self-reliant and adhere to specific guidelines to minimize environmental impact. General Guidelines Location: Camp at least 100 feet from streams or water sources and avoid areas near developed recreation sites such as campgrounds, picnic areas, or

Volunteer Opportunities Help Build and Maintain Central Arkansas Trails
Outdoor recreation in Arkansas continues to grow, but the trails, parks, and green spaces people enjoy every weekend do not maintain themselves. Behind many of the state’s best outdoor destinations

Southwest Trail Ribbon Cutting Postponed Due to Weather
The ribbon-cutting ceremony for Saline County’s first completed segment of the Southwest Trail has been postponed due to forecasted inclement weather. The event was originally scheduled for Friday, May 29,

Volunteer Opportunities Help Build and Maintain Central Arkansas Trails
Outdoor recreation in Arkansas continues to grow, but the trails, parks, and green spaces people enjoy every weekend do not maintain themselves. Behind many of the state’s best outdoor destinations

Southwest Trail Ribbon Cutting Postponed Due to Weather
The ribbon-cutting ceremony for Saline County’s first completed segment of the Southwest Trail has been postponed due to forecasted inclement weather. The event was originally scheduled for Friday, May 29,
Climbing

5th Annual Arkansas Climbers Festival Returns to Horseshoe Canyon Ranch in 2026
The 5th Annual Arkansas Climbers Festival returns to Horseshoe Canyon Ranch in Jasper from Friday, March 27, through Sunday, March 29, 2026. This three-day celebration of climbing culture brings together

New Climbing Area at Petit Jean State Park
Petit Jean State Park in Arkansas is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and rich history. Now, this beloved park is adding a new chapter to its legacy: rock climbing. For

For the Love of Climbing: From Rock Bottom to Rock Faces — How Climbing Gave Katie Jo Myers Life
By Sharon Bennett, featuring Katie Jo Myers Climbing is more than just a sport. It is a source of strength, hope, and community for many. In this installment of For the Love
Hiking & Backpacking

How to Protect Your Dog from Summer Heat on Outdoor Adventures in Arkansas
With another scorching Arkansas summer underway, the trails, rivers, and parks of the Natural State are calling. If you are bringing your dog along, a little preparation goes a long

Get Out There: Enjoying Arkansas Summers Without the Itch
Arkansas is a paradise for outdoor lovers in the summer. From the misty peaks of the Ozark Mountains to the forests of the Ouachita National Forest, from the clear waters

Bear Aware in Arkansas: How to Avoid Bear Encounters While Hiking and Camping in Bear Country
Arkansas earned the nickname The Bear State long before it became known as The Natural State, and today that nickname once again fits. After black bears were nearly wiped out
Paddling

Drought Conditions Postpone Recreational Water Releases Below Remmel Dam
Paddlers hoping to catch scheduled whitewater and recreational releases on the Ouachita River this summer may have to wait for wetter conditions. Entergy Arkansas announced that full-generation recreational flows from

Northwest Arkansas Finally Gets Its Own Water Trail
Upper Illinois River Water Trail Opens in Benton County Northwest Arkansas has become nationally known for its extensive hiking and mountain biking trail systems, but until now, one of the

Memorial Day Float Trip Guide: Arkansas’s Best Floats for the Long Weekend
From the Ozarks to the Ouachitas, these four Arkansas rivers deliver unforgettable paddling for every skill level this holiday weekend. Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial middle of float season






















