Latest News
BOLT Act Recognition Could Put the Ouachita Trail in the National Mountain Biking Spotlight
Arkansas mountain bikers have long known that the Ouachita Mountains offer some of the most rugged and rewarding backcountry riding in the South. Now, a federal outdoor recreation law could
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
The Latest News
News Categories
BOLT Act Recognition Could Put the Ouachita Trail in the National Mountain Biking Spotlight
Arkansas mountain bikers have long known that the Ouachita Mountains offer some of the most rugged and rewarding backcountry riding in the South. Now, a federal outdoor recreation law could bring new national attention to one of the state’s classic long-distance rides. The Biking on Long Distance Trails Act, better known as the BOLT Act, became law as part of the Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences Act, or EXPLORE Act, on January 4, 2025. The law directs federal land management agencies to identify existing long-distance bike trails and places where similar trails could be developed or completed. For Arkansas,
BOLT Act Recognition Could Put the Ouachita Trail in the National Mountain Biking Spotlight
Arkansas mountain bikers have long known that the Ouachita Mountains offer some of the most rugged and rewarding backcountry riding in the South. Now, a federal outdoor recreation law could bring new national attention to one of the state’s classic long-distance rides. The Biking on Long Distance Trails Act, better known as the BOLT Act, became law as part of the Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences Act, or EXPLORE Act, on January 4, 2025. The law directs federal land management agencies to identify existing long-distance bike trails and places where similar trails could be developed or completed. For Arkansas,
Discovery Trail Returns, Wild Cave Still on Hold: An Update on Blanchard Springs Recreation Area
The 2026 season at Blanchard Springs Caverns and Recreation Area is well underway, and there’s good news for fans of one of Arkansas’s most spectacular underground destinations. Arkansas Outside recently
First Look: The New U.S. Forest Service and Grasslands App
The U.S. Forest Service has launched its new National Forests and Grasslands mobile app, now available for both iOS and Android devices. The app is designed to serve as a
Discovery Trail Returns, Wild Cave Still on Hold: An Update on Blanchard Springs Recreation Area
The 2026 season at Blanchard Springs Caverns and Recreation Area is well underway, and there’s good news for fans of one of Arkansas’s most spectacular underground destinations. Arkansas Outside recently
First Look: The New U.S. Forest Service and Grasslands App
The U.S. Forest Service has launched its new National Forests and Grasslands mobile app, now available for both iOS and Android devices. The app is designed to serve as a
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
Your Complete Guide to Planning a Day of Paddling on the Buffalo National River
Everything you need to know before launching on America’s first national river. The Buffalo National River winds through the heart of the Arkansas Ozarks, flowing freely for 151 miles past
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
Subscribe to the Arkansas Outside E-News Mailing List
Upcoming Events
