When I first moved to Arkansas in the 1990s, the state was a mystery to me. My grandmother, though born in Sevier County, had left the state as a toddler, her memories of “The Toothpick State” confined to faded photographs and family lore. Yet, upon learning of my move to Little Rock, she declared her joy at “moving back home.” Little did I know then that her sentiment would echo through my own life. As a military brat, a sailor, and a retail manager, I was accustomed to the transient lifestyle. Moving up meant moving on. Stability, it seemed, was a luxury reserved for others.
Arkansas, now known as “The Natural State,” slowly wove its way into the fabric of my being. Years after arriving, any thought of relocating evaporated. My children, finally old enough to form roots, thrived here. Meanwhile, I was experiencing a personal renaissance. Visits to Pinnacle Mountain State Park sparked a passion for the outdoors that had been lost for over a decade. Soon, I was deep in the heart of the Ozarks and Ouachitas, muscles burning from a passion for competing in adventure races.
This newfound love for Arkansas’ natural beauty wasn’t just personal. In 2005, my wife’s gentle nudge led me to a marketing position with Arkansas State Parks. Here, I devoured every detail about my adopted home state. Every hidden gem, every adventurous trail, every historical landmark – it became my mission to learn it all.
That thirst for knowledge eventually spilled over into ArkansasOutside.com, my brainchild born in November 2011. This website became a furnace, stoking the flames of my love for Arkansas’ outdoor scene. It’s more than just a job, it’s a love letter to a place that surprised me with its beauty and transformed me into an outdoorsman.
There are many blessings in my life – a fiercely supportive wife, children who fill me with pride, and loyal friends. But this year, I add to my gratitude list: the people of Arkansas for crafting this incredible outdoor wonderland, and the rest of the world for finally waking up to its magic. Here are three specific things that I’m thankful to the people of Arkansas for:
The Buffalo National River
Besides the obvious appeal for paddlers, The Buffalo National River is also home to hundreds of miles of hiking/backpacking/running trails, wildlife watching, and being a designated dark sky park, is perfect for stargazing. From the karst rock structure around and below the river to the stars above, this is a destination for all outdoor lovers.
The creation of the Buffalo National River is a story of conservation triumph and local resilience. For decades, the river faced the threat of dam construction, which would have irrevocably altered its natural flow and beauty. Residents, environmentalists, and politicians united to protect this pristine waterway.
In 1972, after years of advocacy and political maneuvering, Congress passed legislation designating the Buffalo River as the nation’s first national river. This designation safeguarded the river from development and ensured its preservation for future generations. The establishment of the Buffalo National River marked a significant milestone in the history of American conservation and set a precedent for the protection of other wild and scenic rivers across the country. (More Information)
Amendment 75 – The Conservation Tax
In the early 1990s, Arkansas State Parks were suffering. A lack of permanent funding had deferred maintenance in the parks creating a backlog of needs in the hundreds of millions of dollars. Park staff was stretched thin and the parks had become a bit of an embarrassment for the state.
Amendment 75, also known as the “Conservation Tax,” was a significant step in securing a sustainable future for Arkansas’s natural treasures. Recognizing the importance of preserving the state’s natural beauty and diverse ecosystems, Arkansas voters overwhelmingly approved this amendment in 1996, it went into effect in July of 1997. This landmark decision established a dedicated funding source for the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, the Arkansas State Parks, and Keep Arkansas Beautiful.
The Conservation Tax levies a small portion of sales tax, specifically 1/8 of 1%, to support these vital conservation agencies. This dedicated funding stream has allowed these agencies to undertake critical projects, such as habitat restoration, park improvements, wildlife management, and environmental education programs. By providing a consistent and reliable source of revenue, Amendment 75 has empowered these agencies to address pressing conservation challenges and safeguard Arkansas’s natural heritage for generations to come.
The impact of Amendment 75 on Arkansas State Parks has been profound. The additional funding has enabled the state parks system to enhance visitor experiences, improve infrastructure, and protect fragile ecosystems. From expanding trail networks and upgrading camping facilities to restoring historic sites and promoting outdoor recreation, the Conservation Tax has played a pivotal role in elevating Arkansas’s state parks to world-class destinations. By supporting these vital initiatives, Amendment 75 ensures that Arkansas’s state parks remain vibrant and accessible, offering opportunities for outdoor recreation, education, and inspiration for years to come. (More Information)
The Big Dam Bridge
The idea for the Big Dam Bridge emerged from a desire to connect the cities of Little Rock and North Little Rock with a dedicated pedestrian and bicycle path. Recognizing the unique opportunity presented by the Murray Lock and Dam, local leaders envisioned a bridge that would not only serve as a transportation link but also as a recreational landmark. After years of planning and fundraising, construction on the Big Dam Bridge began in 2002.
The bridge also connects the first major bicycle/pedestrian trails in the state, the Arkansas River Trail. This river crossing anchors to the west, eventually becoming a 17-mile loop following the riverfront in both Little Rock and North Little Rock. It is one of the most culturally diverse outdoor spaces I’ve ever visited. The views from the bridge east and west of the Arkansas River, Two Rivers Park, River-Mountain Park, and Pinnacle Mountain State Park draw people from all backgrounds, particularly sunsets.
The construction of the Big Dam Bridge was a complex engineering feat. The bridge was built atop the existing lock and dam, requiring careful coordination with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The project involved the construction of massive concrete piers and steel girders to support the bridge deck. Once completed, the Big Dam Bridge became the longest pedestrian and bicycle bridge in North America, offering stunning views of the Arkansas River and the surrounding cities. (More Information)
I could discuss the various ways that Arkansas’s natural treasures are currently being threatened, but that’s not the focus for today. Arkansans have brought us many victories in outdoor recreation. We hope to see you opting outside on Green Friday. Please share in the comments the outdoor features and events in Arkansas that you appreciate.
(Photos courtesy of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism.)
