From hunting season and changing weather to wildfire risks and wildlife encounters, the U.S. Forest Service offers reminders for staying safe while enjoying Arkansas’ public lands.
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Fall and winter are some of the best times to explore Arkansas’ national forests. Cooler temperatures, fewer insects and changing scenery make the season ideal for hiking, backpacking, mountain biking, camping and hunting. But shorter days, unpredictable weather and increased hunting activity also bring challenges that outdoor enthusiasts should prepare for.
The U.S. Forest Service is reminding visitors to take a few extra precautions before heading into the Ouachita and Ozark-St. Francis national forests this season.
Whether you’re planning a weekend backpacking trip, an afternoon mountain bike ride or a day of hunting, a little preparation can make the difference between a memorable adventure and an unpleasant experience.
Look Up, Look Down, Look Around and Look Below
Forest officials recommend following four simple steps for safety when traveling through wooded areas: Look up, look down, look around and look below.
Dead or dying trees, sometimes called snags, can fall without warning, particularly during periods of high wind. Falling limbs can also present hazards at campsites, trailheads and along forest roads.
On the ground, fallen leaves can conceal rocks, roots, holes and other obstacles. Wet leaves and freezing temperatures can make trails especially slippery.
For mountain bikers and trail runners, changing trail conditions can be particularly challenging. Slowing down on unfamiliar sections and watching for hidden obstacles can help prevent injuries.
Share the Forest During Hunting Season
Fall and winter bring increased hunting activity to Arkansas’ national forests. Hikers, cyclists, runners and other recreational users should be aware that they may be sharing the woods with hunters.
The Forest Service encourages visitors to wear hunter orange or other brightly colored clothing to improve visibility. This is particularly important when traveling away from heavily used recreation areas.
Hunters should remain aware of other forest visitors and follow all applicable state hunting regulations.
A little courtesy and awareness go a long way toward keeping Arkansas’ public lands safe and welcoming for everyone.
Be Prepared for Changing Weather
Arkansas weather can change quickly, especially during the fall and winter months. A comfortable afternoon can turn into a cold, wet evening, particularly in the higher elevations of the Ozark and Ouachita mountains.
Before leaving home, check the forecast and prepare for conditions that may be colder or wetter than expected.
Dressing in layers, carrying rain protection and packing additional warm clothing are good practices even for relatively short outings.
Shorter daylight hours are another important consideration. A hike that finishes comfortably before sunset in July may leave visitors navigating in darkness during November or December.
Carrying a headlamp, extra batteries, adequate food and water, and a basic first-aid kit can help when an outing takes longer than planned.
The Forest Service also recommends telling someone where you’re going and when you expect to return. Cellphone service can be unreliable in remote forest areas, so downloading maps for offline use is a good idea.
Be Bear Aware
Black bears are part of Arkansas’ natural landscape, and encounters are possible in both the Ouachita and Ozark national forests.
The Forest Service encourages campers and hikers to store food securely and keep food away from sleeping areas.
If you encounter a bear, remain calm, do not run and slowly back away while facing the animal. Making noise may help discourage a bear that approaches too closely.
Never intentionally feed wildlife, and remember that improperly stored food can attract animals to campsites, creating problems for both visitors and wildlife.
More on Bear Safety.
Wildfire Safety Remains Important
Cooler temperatures do not eliminate wildfire risks. In fact, dry leaves, low humidity and windy conditions can create dangerous fire conditions during fall and winter.
Before building a campfire, check for active burn bans, fire restrictions and wildfire activity.
The Forest Service also reminds visitors not to park vehicles in tall, dry grass. Hot exhaust systems can ignite vegetation, particularly during extended dry periods.
Campfires should never be left unattended and must be completely extinguished before leaving a campsite.
Visitors should check current conditions and restrictions with the Ouachita and Ozark-St. Francis national forests before heading out.
Know the Rules Before You Go
Arkansas’ national forests offer extensive opportunities for dispersed camping, hunting and off-highway vehicle recreation, but those activities come with specific regulations.
The Forest Service reminds visitors that state hunting regulations apply on national forest lands and are enforced by state and federal officers.
Among the prohibited activities are baiting game species, shooting from or across maintained roads, consuming or possessing alcohol while hunting or operating motorized vehicles, and traveling off designated motorized routes.
Dispersed campsites also cannot be left unattended for more than 30 days.
Enjoy the Season, but Plan Ahead
Arkansas’ national forests offer outstanding outdoor recreation throughout the year, and the cooler months can provide some of the most rewarding experiences.
From the rugged trails of the Ouachita Mountains to the scenic valleys of the Ozarks, there is plenty to explore long after summer crowds have disappeared.
The key is preparation. Check conditions, understand the regulations, carry appropriate gear and respect others sharing the forest.
A little extra planning can help ensure your next fall or winter adventure ends with good memories rather than an emergency.
More information at these links: Ouachita National Forest and Ozark-Saint Francis National Forest.
This article was originally published on ArkansasOutside.com, your trusted source for outdoor news and updates in The Natural State. Unless otherwise credited, all photos included in this piece are the property of Arkansas Outside, LLC. We take pride in sharing the beauty and adventures of Arkansas through our lens, thank you for supporting our work!