Step Outside - Arkansas WELCOME TO STEP OUTSIDE! Find the best outdoor fun near you! en-us 30 http://stepoutside.org/ Step Outside - Arkansas 144 144 http://stepoutside.org/ https://cdn-step.americantowns.com/img/stepoutside_logo.gif Sat, 27 Apr 2024 05:51:45 -0500 5 Energizing Hikes in Arkansas From the Ouachita Mountains to the Ozarks, there’s plenty of magnificent, rustic terrain to be explored in Arkansas. These moderate trails will get your heart pumping and take you through a variety of incredible landscapes. Here are five energizing hikes to enjoy in the state. 

If you’re looking for a hike with scenic views of the ancient geology of the Arkansas Ozarks, then the Pedestal Rocks Loop Trail is the one for you. This trail gets its name from the amazing limestone columns scattered throughout the area. As well as numerous shelters and caves, these columns have been formed from natural weathering and look like large pedestals. Prepare to spend at least 2-3 hours as you hike the roughly 2.5-mile Pedestal Rocks Loop Trail.

This moderate Northwest Arkansas trail is one of the most popular in the state. The natural Lake Fayetteville Trail is 6.9 miles of soft surface, while the paved multi-use trail is 5.5 miles. Because this is a multi-use trail, hikers should expect to share the ground with bikers, runners, and walkers. The plant and wildlife views on the Lake Fayetteville Trail are so exhilarating that you’ll want to bring your camera to capture the memories.

Covering more than 10 miles, the Sunset Trail is the longest trail in Hot Springs National Park. So long, in fact, that most visitors break up this scenic hike into three sections. You’ll experience a variety of terrain on the Sunset Trail as it crosses through the park’s remote areas as well as its highest point of elevation. As if this trail wasn’t energizing enough on its own, there are also two beautiful spurs for you to explore: Balanced Rock Trail and Fordyce Peaks Trail.

Located near Caddo Gap, Montgomery County’s Eagle Rock Loop is an energizing hike that is almost 30 miles-long. Eagle Rock Loop is actually made up of three smaller trails: the Athens-Big Fork, Little Missouri, and Viles Branch Trails. Experienced adventurers love the beauty of the Ouachita sights that can be seen from this trail. Caution should be taken when hiking Eagle Rock Loop at spots where it crosses the Little Missouri River, as flash-flooding can make water levels extremely dangerous.

Set aside at least four hours to hike Seven Hollows Trail in the beautiful Petit Jean State Park. This energizing trail takes hikers on a scenic journey through a system of small caverns as it passes through a forest of hardwoods. Seven Hollows Trail is 4.5 miles in length and also features a breathtaking waterfall.

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5 Exhilarating Jet Skiing Spots in Arkansas Get ready to race across some of the beautiful waters here in Arkansas! There is an abundance of shimmering lakes across the Natural State just waiting to be explored on the back of a jet ski. Check out these five exhilarating jet skiing spots in the Natural State.

This natural wonder is located in the flat Delta area in southern Arkansas. Formerly a main channel of the Mighty Mississippi, Lake Chicot is now the largest oxbow lake in North America as well as Arkansas largest natural lake. With the Lake Chicot State Park nearby, this spot is perfect for camping after an exhilarating jet skiing adventure.

Lake Hamilton was created back in 1932 when a dam was completed on the Ouachita River. Today this 7,460-acre lake is one of the most popular recreational areas in Arkansas. In addition to jet skiing, folks also enjoy pleasure boating and fishing on this Hot Springs-area lake.

Known as one of the cleanest lakes in America, the 40,000-acre Lake Ouachita is a water sport mecca not just for jet skiing, but for boating, fishing, scuba diving, and much more. Rent your ride from DreamChaser Houseboat & Water Toy Rentals, located right on the lake! 

This 28,370-acre lake is one of the most popular jet skiing spots in the Natural State. Located in the Northwest Arkansas Ozarks, Beaver Lake never fails to provide a beautiful backdrop to any water sport adventure.

This 160-acre mountain lake is a popular recreational spot near Paris, Arkansas. Located in the shadow of Mount Magazine in the Ozark National Forest, Cove Lake is a beautiful spot for a thrilling jet ski ride! 

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5 Beautiful Scenic Hikes in Arkansas In Arkansas, scenic landscapes are abundant. You’ll find beautiful hiking spots just about anywhere that your feet touch the ground here in the Natural State. So, get out your walkin’ sticks and hiking boots while you check out our picks for five of the most beautifully scenic spots to hike in the Natural State.

This moderately traveled scenic hike is a 3.5-mile looped trail near Yellville, Arkansas. The Indian Rockhouse Trail features a waterfall, stream, and winds itself across the beautiful Arkansas landscape and hills. Open year-round, this self-guided hike offers a variety of activity options, including the Indian Rock House Cave which used to shelter prehistoric Native Americans.

This six-mile round-trip trail offers beautiful views of the Buffalo National River as well as a geologic experience like no other. Just like its name implies, at 550-feet tall, Big Bluff is BIG! So big, in fact, that it is the tallest sheer bluff face between the Appalachian and Rocky Mountains. Hikers should exercise extreme caution while experiencing this scenic hike, as it can be hazardous in certain areas. 

The popular looped North Rim Trail is located in the beautiful Mount Magazine State Park near Paris, Arkansas. This trail follows the north rim of Mount Magazine (hence the name) to where it reaches Cameron Bluff Overlook Drive. Accessible year-round, North Rim Trail features fantastic wild flowers and is a great spot for bird watching. 

The Eagle Rock Loop Trail is a 26-mile scenic hike located near Caddo Gap, Arkansas, in the beautiful Ouachita National Forest. This lightly-trafficked loop trail, the longest in Arkansas, is only recommended for the very experienced adventurer. Eagle Rock Loop Trail is probably the best location in Arkansas for a multi-day backpacking trek.

Best traveled from March to October, this six-mile out and back trail on the Buffalo National River features the breathtaking, single-drop Hemmed-In Hollow Waterfall. The strenuous Hemmed-In Hollow Trail is much better suited for experienced hikers rather than for children or folks who tire easily. All hikers are urged to bring water and a snack as they embark on this 4-5-hour hiking adventure.

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10 Best Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails in Arkansas! Explore the Natural Beauty and Take in the Fresh Air of the Ozark Hills with Your Furry Friend in Tow!

When it comes to outdoor adventures, Arkansas offers some of the most scenic trails for hiking and dog walking. With its picturesque views and endless trails, finding a peaceful spot to explore with your four-legged buddy is a breeze. Here are 10 of the best dog friendly hiking trails that Arkansas has to offer.

This pawsome park is cared for by Siloam Parks and Recreation, and is the perfect spot to take your pup for a hike and some fun playtime.

Riverside Dog Park is a great spot to take your pup for a fun day out. It features a large and small dog area with play equipment, benches, and even a water fountain and nearby public restrooms.

This 1,600-acres park has a 100-acre body of water with a dam, which is known as Lake Leatherwood. Your pup will love exploring the trails that lead to the Ozark National Forest.

Originally chosen as a state park in the 1930s, the Devil's Den Trail is an iconic spot in Arkansas. With its rustic-style wood and stone structures and impressive rock formations and caverns, get ready to make some special memories with your pup.

This trail is especially great for its beautiful scenery, wildflowers, and unique history. Located two miles south of Jasper on Highway 7, Round Top Mountain Trail is an outdoor oasis. Relax with your four legged friends for a chill day out.

With its affordable and diverse recreational opportunities, this park is dedicated to inspiring and enhancing its public. Whether you and your pup want to relax or discover something new, Burns Park has something for everyone.

This trail takes visitors and their pets alike, off the beaten path and into a world of natural wonders. With wildflowers, native beauty, and a peaceful atmosphere, this trail is sure to take your breath away.

Located along the bank of the Arkansas River, this 135-acre park offers bluffs and scenic views. Your pup can enjoy running amidst nature while appreciating the beauty of the river.

With 186 acres of wetlands and low woods and nearly six miles of trails, this sanctuary is great for dog walking and nature photography. Enjoy the peace and tranquility of this nature preserve with your pup by your side.

This IMBA-accredited trail is ideal for hikers at all levels, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a challenging trek, accompanied by your dog. Whether you're looking for clean flow, major downhills, technical rocks or huge berms, the Slaughter Pen Trail has it all.

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http://stepoutside.org/article/10-best-dog-friendly-hiking-trails-in-arkansas http://stepoutside.org/article/10-best-dog-friendly-hiking-trails-in-arkansas Mon, 08 Apr 2024 00:00:00 -0500
5 Cool Spots for ATV Off-Roading in Arkansas Arkansans understand the need for adventure. Off-roading is the perfect remedy for the thrill bug. If you’re searching for an exciting off-roading experience, check out these five great spots in Arkansas to start your journey. 

Designed for riders to test their limits, there isn’t an obstacle too tough or trail too muddy at this great spot in Alexander, Arkansas. Carter Off-Road Park was established in 2014 to provide a safe place for the Central Arkansas community to ride and play in the mud together. This impressive park features 24/7 access to a variety of ATV trails, obstacles, and more. 

#muddaze2017 😈💜🍇

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The Wolf Pen ATV Campground and Cabins is home to the Wolf Pen Gap Trail. The well-known off-roading spot features 42 miles of loop trails and three trailheads. The scenic trail at Wolf Pen Gap takes riders across Board Camp and Gap Creek and through a mix of forest and rugged areas in the Ouachitas. Although there is no fee to use this trail, donations are accepted at the trailheads. The Wolf Pen Gap Trail is open year-round except in November and December during modern gun season.

This River Valley spot features miles of riding opportunities on 800 acres in the scenic Arkansas Ozarks. Byrd’s Adventure Center is well-known for its off-road play areas that include challenging obstacles, mud pits, and jumps. In addition to the great trails available at Byrd’s ORV Park, riders can also enjoy designated trails in the surrounding Ozark National Forest.

Mulberry Mountain Lodge, located along Highway 23 on the Pig Trail National Scenic Byway, is a great spot for the ultimate ATV getaway. This 650-acre lodging and event resort on Arkansas’ Mulberry Mountain features direct access to many of the Ozark National Forest ATV trails. One of the more popular trails, the Mill Creek Off-Highway Vehicle Trail, features a scenic ride over mountainous terrain in remote areas of the forest. 

The popular ATV trails at the Renegade Ranch feature over 300 acres of hills and forest as well as open spaces adjoining the Ouachita River. Experienced riders may be interested in Renegade Ranch’s extreme trails, the Outlaw Pass and Cougar Canyon. Although guests can rent cabins here, ATVs cannot be rented here, and trail use fees include $5 per ATV for half-day and $10 per ATV for full-day. This area is also well-known for its wealth of arrowheads.

*Note: Age restrictions, special licenses, and other requirements for off highway vehicles vary from state to state. Before heading out on your OHV, please consult your local regulations.

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5 Amazing Dirt Motorcycle Trails in Arkansas Whether you’re a novice or an expert, it’s important to know where to find the best stretches of trail to unleash your inner dirt bike devil. So, get your motor runnin’ and head out to one of these amazing dirt bike trails in Arkansas!

Your Ouachita Mountain dirt bike adventure begins right here! The Wolf Pen Trail near Mena is one of the most popular ATV trails not only in Arkansas, but also in the country. This area boasts 42 miles of marked, looped trails, and features some unique attractions such as a few abandoned mines and a two-footed oak tree. Wolf Pen is open year-round except during hunting season.

Since 1989 the Gamble family has owned and operated Mack’s Pines, “your Trailriding Headquarters of the Ozarks.” Here you’ll find 40 miles of marked trails and an additional 1,000 miles of unmarked trails, all for your dirt biking pleasure. 

For just $3 per vehicle per day, riders can enjoy this great trail in the Ozark National Forest. Mill Creek OHV Trail leads riders through some spectacular mountain terrain with views worth writing home about. Add in the beautiful surrounding hardwood forests and clear mountain streams and you’ve got yourself the perfect scene for a great dirt bike ride. 

The Fourche Mountain Trail is a free trail in the Ouachita National Forest. Riders can enjoy amazing views of Fourche Mountain and Buck Knob as well as other views of the beautiful Arkansas Ouachita Mountains. Difficulty levels on this trail vary from very easy to quite difficult. 

One of the most popular spots in Arkansas for all things off-road is Sandtown Ranch, which is 1,800 privately-owned acres of dirt bike heaven. Sandtown Ranch is open year-round and features awesome attractions like a cave with an underground river and waterfall. Riders of all levels enjoy this trail for many reasons including its numerous creek crossings. 

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5 Great Hiking Trails in Arkansas It’s no surprise that the Natural State is home to some of the most sprawling and stunning organic beauty in the country. One excellent way to soak that up is by getting out for a hike with the family when the weather is nice. The immaculate land in Arkansas provides many perfect settings to spend time with the people you care about. Here are five great hiking trails in Arkansas the whole family can enjoy. 

The Withrow Springs State Park in Madison County features three moderate trails: the .75-mile Dogwood Nature Trail, the 1.25-mile Forest Trail, and the two-mile round-trip War Eagle Trail. The Dogwood Trail takes about an hour and is named for the beautiful flowering dogwood trees, making it quite colorful in the springtime. The Forest Trail takes three to four hours, following an old railway on the eastern side of the Withrow Springs State Park. The War Eagle Trail takes about an hour and is named for the scenic river that runs the length of the trail. Whichever trail you decide to take, your family will definitely enjoy being outdoors in this section of the Natural State.

Cassy took all the puns. Keep killin the pun game and the Kamp game, Cass.

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This half-mile trail is perfect for families of all sizes and ages. Although its official name is Twin Falls, this trail is more commonly known as Triple Falls because there are three distinct waterfalls during high water. Those waterfalls, by the way, are 48 feet-tall! Triple Falls is located at Camp Orr Boy Scout Camp just south of Harrison. Dogs are able to use this trail as well, so long as they are kept on a leash.

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Located near Mount Judea, Sam’s Throne is a popular spot in the beautiful Ozarks. Although it is mostly known as a rock climbing site, Sam’s Throne is also a well-known destination for photography, camping, and hiking. Overlooking the gorgeous Big Creek Valley below, one look at this view will show you why this spot is so popular. With a variety of trails to hike, Sam’s Throne offers challenges for everyone from beginners to experts.

This beautiful spot is home to Arkansas’ “Castle in the Clouds” and is perfect for family outings. With easy trails like the half-mile Spring Trail and moderate trails like the 1.3-mile Lover’s Leap Trail, Queen Wilhelmina State Park can accommodate even the least experienced hiker. For those interested in a more strenuous hike, check out the 225-mile Ouachita Trail. 

With multiple hiking trails, Hobbs State Park Conservation Area is a great spot for family hikes. Choose between the half-mile Historic Van Winkle Trail, the 1.5-mile Shaddox Hollow Nature Trail, the 24-mile Hidden Diversity Multi-Use Trail, or the Pigeon Roost Trail, a double-stacked loop trail in a figure eight formation. These trails are popular for hiking as well as viewing a variety of plant and animal species.

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5 Excellent Places for Beginners to Kayak in Arkansas Kayaking is a great way to get some fresh air and exercise at the same time. Beginners usually look for spots to kayak that have slow-moving waters with few obstacles and courses that are easy to navigate. If you’re feeling particularly uneasy about the start of your adventure, bring along an experienced kayaker to guide the way. Arkansas’ uncommon beauty naturally provides the perfect scenery for any kayaking journey. Here are some great spots for beginners to get their feet wet in Arkansas! 

The well-known 135-mile long Buffalo National River in North Arkansas was the first national river in the U.S. and remains a beautiful place to kayak. These remarkable waters flow out of the Boston Mountains division of the ancient Ozarks, eventually merging with the White River. Although not quite as scenic as some other parts of the river, the 10-mile stretch between Arkansas 7 and Highway 123 offers the perfect spot for beginners and families to kayak, canoe, and float.

See you on the Buffalo, bro

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Flowing through the heart of Ozark country, Big Piney Creek has a reputation for being one of the best float streams in Arkansas. Featuring a mix of recreational opportunities, this classic creek is well-known for its 67-miles of cool, clear, and lively waters. This creek offers kayakers a variety of scenery with differing levels of water movement. Beginners should be aware of the third section of the Big Piney Creek, the Treat to Long Pool float, as the rapids in this section are known by names like “Roller Coaster” and “Cascades of Extinction.”

Beginning at the base of Rich Mountain, the well-known Ouachita River winds itself through the naturally beautiful Ouachita Mountain area. The 10-mile section from Oden to Rocky Shoals Campground at the U.S. 270 crossing is one of the most popular spots on this remarkable stream. Many consider the breathtaking scenery along this section of the Ouachita River to be one of the best views in the Natural State.

The Kings River flows along the Arkansas-Missouri border and offers a unique kayaking experience due to its rich history. The Kings River is so naturally unique that it was the first river in Arkansas to receive governmental protection through legislation passed by the 1971 General Assembly. The most popular kayaking spots on Kings River are the 11-mile stretch from Marble to Marshall Ford and the 15-mile stretch from Marshall Ford to Rockhouse.

This interesting kayak park is a beautiful amenity just south of the city of Siloam Springs that is designed for kayakers to best enjoy rapids between 200 and 600 cubic feet per second. Situated along the beautiful Illinois River, the Siloam Springs Kayak Park features engineered rapids and a shoreline that has been altered in some areas. Unless the waters reach an unsafe level, the park is open all day and is free to all users. 

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10 Best Bait and Tackle Shops in Arkansas From the huge brown trout in the White River to Norfork Lake’s hard-fight striped bass and whatever you can pull out of the Mississippi, there’s a whole lot of fishing to be done in Arkansas. And unless you’re noodling, you’ll need the right gear. These are our favorite bait and tackle shops in Arkansas.

Hook Line & Sinker Outdoors has two locations, one in Rogers and one in Bentonville. They carry many top fishing brands and a deep selection of rods, reels, and tackle, as well as both live and artificial baits. They’re also active in the local community, hosting or sponsoring events like fishing tournaments.

No matter what you’re targeting in Arkansas fisheries—from bass and trout to catfish and panfish—you’ll find the gear you need at Rock Springs Tackle. In addition to carrying a full line of rods, reels, baits, and tackle from top and popular brands, the shop can alo repair your rod or reel.

Our New, Top Water Spook check us out at Rock Springs Tackle in Harrison, Arkansas

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Fly anglers chasing the rainbows or massive brown trout in Arkansas’ many awesome fisheries can find the flies and gear that they need at the Ozark Angler’s two locations: Heber Springs and Little Rock. They’ve been helping put fly anglers on the fish since 1989. 

A panoramic view of the store today. We are ready for you this holiday!!!

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While they carry products most any angler will need, Fish’N Stuff has specialized in helping bass hunters pull hogs out of Arkansas lakes and rivers since 1987. Whether you’re a newbie or a tournament veteran, this shop probably has the gear and tackle you’re looking for.

Combo game strong 💪 #lews #machII #LaserMG #machcrush #fishnstuff

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If you need live bait—from minnows and nightcrawlers to crickets—jigs, soft baits, rods, or reels, Lisa’s Bait Shop can hook an angler up. As one customer said, Lisa’s has the “[b]est bait around, and can’t beat the prices. I won’t buy any fishing gear anywhere else.”  

BMT—“Bass Mafia Tackle”—Outdoors was formed by five enthusiastic anglers who wanted to build a tackle store that offered the best products so that local anglers could go out and catch fish. They’re happy to help everyone from bass pros to recreational anglers. The shop also regularly sponsors school fishing teams and bass clubs.

Found the bait of the week.

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From live bait to bowfishing, Bald Knob Bait Shop has what anglers need to hit Lake Bald Knob, Greers Ferry Lake, or the Little Red River. Whether you’re need a rod, some fishing line, a swimbait, or just some advice about where the crappies are biting and what they’re hitting, Bald Knob Bait can help you out.

Whether you’re looking to catch a catfish or just take home a fried catfish dinner, complete with cole slaw and hushpuppies, Point Cedar Grocery can accommodate you. So grab some minnows or nightcrawlers, a cup of coffee, a gallon of milk, and hit the water.

Before you hit the Arkansas River, if you need a fishing rod or a fishing license, a stringer or sinkers, you’ll find it at Creel-Outdoors in Lavaca. They can even hook you up with snacks, ice, and marine supplies. Heck, they even rent U-Hauls if you find yourself in need of a truck or trailer.

Folks who want to buy or rent (if you’re in town for a fishing trip or tournament) pro-level fishing equipment need only visit Geared in Hot Springs, to find what you’re looking for. In addition to rods and reals, they also carry hard and soft baits and sponsor a pro bass fishing team.

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http://stepoutside.org/article/10-best-bait-and-tackle-shops-in-arkansas http://stepoutside.org/article/10-best-bait-and-tackle-shops-in-arkansas Thu, 28 Mar 2024 00:00:00 -0500
5 Best Backpack Camping Spots in Arkansas There are more than a few great spots to camp here in Arkansas. Between the spirit of the Ozarks and the Ouachitas alone, there is so much to take in on these beautiful trails that backpacking often offers the perfect camping experience. Here are five of the most beautiful backpack camping spots in the Natural State. Please remember trail etiquette and only camp within the designated areas…and don’t forget to bring your camera!

Spanning the entire Ozark National Forest, the nearly 210-mile-long Ozark Highlands Trail is often called one of the most scenic trails in the United States. The western terminus (trailhead) of this ultra-popular trail is located at Lake Fort Smith State Park, just north of Mountainburg on US 71. Camping outside of the park’s recreational areas is permitted once visiting backpackers have hiked beyond the first six miles.

At nearly nine miles in length, Pigeon Roost Trail is located within Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area in Northwest Arkansas. You’ll find the trailhead just east of War Eagle Road, also known as Benton County 98. This popular spot is a stacked double-loop trail, with a smaller four-mile loop designated for day hiking and a longer 8.5-mile loop for overnight hiking. Backpackers wishing to camp may do so at one of the five primitive, first-come first-serve, camping sites on a ridge overlooking beautiful Beaver Lake (contact Ranger for availability).

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The popular Ouachita National Hiking Trail, also known as the National Recreational Trail, is located off Highway 300 in Little Rock and is designated for both hiking and backpacking. Although this entire trail is an exhausting 222 miles long, you’ll enjoy a beautiful (and less strenuous!) 2.5-mile stretch in Pinnacle Mountain State Park. The beautiful Ouachita National Hiking Trail will take you along the edge of the Big Maumelle River as well as through some scenic upland forests and rocky hillside areas.

At almost 10 miles in length, this trail offers some of the best hiking in the state for beginning backpackers. Cove Lake Trail, located within Mount Magazine State Park as well as the Ozark National Forest, features a variety of native wildlife and beautiful landscapes, like white-tailed deer and virgin hardwoods. Hunting is allowed inside the Ozark National Forest (where overnight camping is permitted), so visitors need to be aware of the seasons and should wear bright colors when appropriate. 

This awesome trail is located within Cossatot River State Park-Natural Area just south of Mena, Arkansas. The River Corridor Trail is an excellent trail for backpacking as it winds its way through some of the most scenic (and rough!) terrain in the Ouachita Mountains. Visitors are asked to limit camping to these areas: the Ed Banks, the Sandbar, the Cossatot Falls, and the Highway 278 access areas.

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http://stepoutside.org/article/5-best-backpack-camping-spots-in-arkansas http://stepoutside.org/article/5-best-backpack-camping-spots-in-arkansas Wed, 20 Mar 2024 00:00:00 -0500
5 Best Fishing Spots in Arkansas The changing seasons and moderate weather here in Arkansas allows us to have some of the best year-round fishing. From streams and rivers to lakes and trout waters, Arkansas’s waters are stocked with a rainbow of fine fish. So, put out your “gone fishin’” sign and head out to one of these great Arkansas fishing spots.

The Arkansas River is a popular location for professional fishing tournaments like Bassmasters. Pools in the Arkansas River, formed by locks and dams, are stocked by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) with bass, crappie, catfish, and other sport fish. Additionally, stripers can be found along the entire 320-mile stretch of the Arkansas River that flows through Arkansas.

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The White River is one of the most popular fishing spots in the Natural State. While the upper section of the White River is swimming with bass, catfish, and sunfish, it’s catfish you’ll find just below Bull Shoals Dam. In recent years, the biggest trout have been caught downstream of the Houseman Access.

Flooded timber in this 29,000-acre lake provides the perfect environment for a variety of fish. Millwood Lake is a popular fishing lake that features bass, crappie, catfish, and bluegills. Millwood Lake is also a host various for fishing derbies and bass fishing tournaments held by local and out-of-state organizations. 

The Spring River is well-known for its stream walleye fishing and also has a reputation for being unique among Arkansas trout waters. Rather than coming from deep within a manmade lake, the cold water in the Spring River comes naturally from a spring. The three-mile stretch from Mammoth Springs to Dam 3 is ideal for those that enjoy fishing from the bank or while wading.

As far as fishing goes, Lake Ouachita is one of the most popular lakes in Arkansas and is well-known for its premier largemouth bass fishing. The deep, crystal-clear waters of Lake Ouachita are also ideal for large stripers, which are often caught by trolling with downriggers. 

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5 Awesome Campgrounds for Families in Arkansas Camping in Arkansas is as natural as the beauty found throughout the state. With so many great campgrounds, it isn’t hard to find the perfect spot for family camping adventures. Here are a few great picks for family-friendly campgrounds in the state!  

Located in the beautiful Ozark-St. Francis National Forests, just 13 miles west of Fayetteville, the Lake Wedington area is one of the best family-friendly campgrounds in the Natural State. This popular spot features activities such as birding, boating, kayaking, mountain biking, hiking and swimming. Amenities include an accessible fishing dock, boat ramp, cabin rentals, and picnic areas. The picnic pavilion can accommodate up to 75 guests, and the lodge can hold 200 (both of these areas can be utilized during the day). 

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Camp is set!

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The Crater of Diamonds State Park is an obvious choice when it comes to family camping trips in Arkansas. In addition to priceless hidden treasures, this “keep what you find” diamond site also features 47 Class AAA campsites and five walk-in tent sites. Families of all ages enjoy the water park after digging up memories at this campground.

The Lake Dardanelle area, surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of the Arkansas River Valley, is so large that it is divided into two parts. The Russellville and Dardanelle locations offer a total of 74 camping sites, launch ramps, restrooms and bathhouses with hot showers. Guests also enjoy the fishing and hiking opportunities available at Lake Dardanelle State Park.

Located in the beautiful Boston Mountain Range of the Ozarks, Lake Fort Smith State Park has 20 Class AAA and 10 Class B campsites, as well as 10 cabins. This popular spot features hiking trails, a swimming pool, playground, and marina where guests can rent kayaks, pedal boats, and party barges.

Devil’s Den State Park may be best known for its cool caves and hiking trails, but it also features an impressive number of camping spots: 44 Class AAA sites, 12 Class B sites, 13 Class C sites, eight hike-in (tent-only) sites, and more. Visitors should always check cave closings before planning a trip to Devil’s Den State Park.

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http://stepoutside.org/article/5-awesome-campgrounds-for-families-in-arkansas http://stepoutside.org/article/5-awesome-campgrounds-for-families-in-arkansas Thu, 01 Feb 2024 00:00:00 -0600
5 Awesome RV Campsites in Arkansas When it comes time to break out the RV for a family trip, it’s important to know the best spots to park it. Across Arkansas, you’ll find a variety of excellent campsites with all the amenities you’ll need for a perfect weekend away. Here are our picks for five awesome RV campsites in the Natural State. 

This great RV campsite in Hot Springs is a Kampgrounds of America (KOA) approved location. Tucked away in the foothills of the Ouachita Mountains, the Hot Springs National Park KOA is one of the best RV campsites in the Natural State. Amenities and activities include a pool (open seasonally), fishing, snack bar, mini golf, and more. 

Striving to be the “campsite of choice” in the Ozarks, the Eureka Springs KOA is one of the best RV campsites in Arkansas. Another Kampgrounds of America location, you’ll find full-hook-ups and pull-through sites at this big-rig friendly RV campsite in Eureka Springs. There is a pool open seasonally, as well as firewood and propane available.  

This awesome park is your “home on the road” in the Arkansas Ozarks. Located near Historic Batesville, the Speedway RV Park is a full-service RV lodging facility that features awesome amenities like climate-controlled bathrooms, a laundry room with washer and dryer, an RV dumping station, and much more. Next door to the Speedway RV Park you’ll find a flea market and a gift shop that feature collectibles, antiques, and more. 

Big rigs are welcome here! You won’t have to travel down Arkansas backroads to reach this awesome spot on the White River. The RV campsites at Blue Heron are spacious, level, and most are pull-through. Guests can enjoy fishing and bird watching while taking in the scenic views of the beautiful Ozark Mountains.

This four-acre resort in Jasper offers 20 RV campsites as well as many other amenities including a swimming pool, pavilion, picnic tables, and fire rings. Most sites at the Dogwood Springs Campground Resort feature full hook-ups with 30-amp or 50-amp electrical service. 

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5 Cool Rock Climbing Spots in Arkansas Get ready to experience Arkansas from an angle you’ve never seen before. The best way to enjoy the Natural State’s natural beauty is by climbing it. Across Arkansas, you’ll find a variety of excellent rock climbing spots to truly challenge your abilities. From sandstone sport climbing to top-notch bouldering, here are the five coolest rock climbing spots in the state. 

A real Arkansas dude ranch! Well-known in the climbing community as a great destination for some of the finest sandstone sport climbing, the certified and experienced guides at Horseshoe Canyon Ranch will show you the ropes. This place has been featured in multiple outdoor magazines as one of the best climbing areas east of the Rockies. From the beginner just starting out to the repelling expert, HCR has routes available for all skill levels.

Sam’s Throne, located up on Mt. Judea, is a popular spot for rock climbing, hiking, and more. Top roping is popular here at Sam’s Throne, which features climbs that range from short bouldering up to 75-foot pitches to challenge all skill levels. 

With some routes reaching near 200 feet, Red Rock Point is one of the tallest established climbing areas in the state of Arkansas. Access to these red sandstone walls is tricky so use caution in your approach (do not try to access from the top!). Red Rock Point towers above the valley, just north of the Sam’s Throne area.

At 2,753-feet high, Mount Magazine is the highest point in Arkansas, making it a dramatic location for technical rock climbing. Traditional Arkansas bouldering, sport climbing, and rappelling is allowed in a designated area on the mountain’s south bluff that overlooks the Petit Jean River Valley. 

This indoor rock climbing center is one of the best places in the Central Arkansas area to find extreme fun and a great alternative to the average workout. The Little Rock Climbing Center features over 5,000-square-feet of 30-foot high textured walls with angles for all skill levels.

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10 Best Archery Outfitters in Arkansas Whether you’re an experienced bow hunter or a sport archer who targets bullseyes on the range, you need the right gear. From equipment like sights and broadheads to services like bow tuning and string replacement, when you’re looking for archery gear in Arkansas, these are our favorite places to get it.

Ingram Archery Supply and Tackle is a family-owned and operated business that’s furnished the Quitman community with all its archery needs for years. In addition to sales, the shop offers first-class service, including bow tuning and string replacement. There is also a 3D archery range on premises.

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Folks in the tristate Texarkana area need look no farther than Archery Outfitters Pro Shop for their bowhunting and archery gear. The 10,000-square-foot store boasts the area’s best selection. A knowledgeable staff will help you find what you’re looking for and even point you to the shop’s indoor range, where you can put your new gear to use.

Better Outdoors Archery & Bowfishing can help you find a compound bow or crossbow—and even outfit it for fishing, if you’re so inclined—as well as arrows, sights or just about any other archery gear you need. The shop also offers tuning and repair services and has an indoor range where you can practice your skills. 

12 Ring Archery is a full-service pro shop that is a dealer for several of the top archery brands. In addition to bow sales and service, the shop sells arrows, sights, releases, and other accessories. They also have a range with 3D targets, where they host regular shooting events.

Slingin’ Arrows, in El Dorado, has just about everything an archer would need. The shop sells bows, arrows, and gear. They also offer archery lessons, can tune your bow, or repair your gear. The shop has an indoor range where they host leagues and tournaments, as well.

Folks in Tumbling Shoals look to Neshoba Archery for the best gear and service in the area. As one customer says, “Hands down the best bow shop… No need to go to any other bow shop.” They sell bows and accessories, offer service and advice, and have a range where you can practice. 

Archer’s Advantage is the place where capital city archers can find the gear they need. From traditional longbows and recurves to compound bows and cross bows, they’ll likely have what you’re looking for. The shop also offers a full menu of bow and arrow services, including custom fletching, as well as an indoor range.

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Pinpoint Archery prides themselves on the skills and depth of knowledge of their pro staff. In addition to sales of new and used equipment, Pinpoint also offers an array of services, including bow tuning and repair, arrow repair and customization, and string replacement. The shop also has a range.

If you lean more toward traditional—or even primitive—archery, Pine Hollow Longbows is the spot for you. Whether you’re looking to build your own bow, and need supplies and/or knowledge, or want to order a custom bow, Pine Hollow can help you out. 

If you need a bag of ice, some snacks, and some archery equipment, Mt. George Archery & Quick Stop is the place to go. The shop has been in business more than a dozen years and can offer the depth of knowledge that only experience provides.

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