HOT SPRINGS, Ark. – February 22, 2024— The National Forests in Arkansas and Oklahoma announce the availability of 2024 Day Use Permits for select developed recreation sites.
The permits are valid for Calendar Year 2024 and are accepted at designated day-use sites and areas such as swim beaches, picnic sites, and trailheads. This permit allows the permit holder free access to day-use areas that typically charge a daily $3-$5 fee.
The Ouachita National Forest’s 2024 Day Use Permit is $25. It can be used for day-use activities at the following sites in the Ouachita National Forest: Charlton, Little Pines, Shady Lake, and Cedar Lake.
The Ozark-St. Francis National Forests’ 2024 Day Use Permit is $30 and can be used for day-use activities at the following sites on Ozark-St. Francis National Forests: Barkshed, Blanchard Springs, Horsehead Lake, Long Pool, Mill Creek, Moccasin Gap, Redding, Shores Lake, Sorghum Hollow, Spring Lake, Syllamo Mountain Bike Trail, and Wolf Pen.
The 2024 Day Use Permits are available at most district offices. Visitors wishing to purchase a permit or pass should call ahead to ensure availability.
Revenue generated from these seasonal day-use permits is reinvested into local forest recreation sites for trash pickups, septic and toilet pumping, painting, cleaning, addressing the backlog of deferred maintenance, conducting patrols, and maintaining highly used trails and campsites.
Rules in force at day-use areas include:
- Day-use areas are closed from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.
- Parking is allowed in designated areas only.
- Alcohol is prohibited.
- Fireworks are prohibited.
- Pets must be on a leash or restrained.
- The fee tag or 2024 Day Use Permit must be filled out, including dates, and visibly placed on the vehicle dash or hanging from the rearview mirror.
For Ozark-St. Francis NFs office locations, visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/osfnf/about-forest/offices. For Ouachita NF office locations, visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/ouachita/about-forest/offices.
(Photo of Shady Lake courtesy of Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism)
