21 Arkansas State Parks in 2021 Challenge
The challenge has been set… The Hopwood Family is going to try to visit 21 Arkansas State Parks in 2021. Arkansas has 52 State Parks spread out all over the Natural State. We are challenging ourselves to visit half of them this year. We are fortunate to live in a beautiful state, but seldom venture out of the northwestern area. This challenge will give us the chance to experience some new areas and adventures.
State parks are a great way to travel in 2021. Due to COVID-19 restrictions some amenities and activities may not be currently available but seeing as how most State Parks’ activities are based outdoors, most will still be available for your enjoyment. The Arkansas State Parks system has a free passport activity in place. You can pick up your own free passport and get it stamped at all the visitor’s centers so you can track your travels along with us.
#1 Lake Fort Smith
What a better place to start than in our own backyard? Just a short drive up the road from where we live is the beautiful Lake Fort Smith State Park. This park holds great memories and sentimental value for us. Daniel and I were engaged on the other side of the lake when this area was known as Lake Shepherd Springs. The park was moved from its previous location in Mountainburg in 2002 and reopened in this new site in May 2008.
Things to Do
The new park location has 30 campsites, 10 cabins, a swimming pool, a marina with boat rentals, hiking trails, a playground, picnic areas including a pavilion, and a visitor center. The lake is not available for swimming or water sports, but you can still enjoy boating and fishing. There are many fun things for kids of all ages to see and do.
The visitor center tells the history of Lake Fort Smith and how early settlers moved into the area in covered wagons. There is even a life-sized covered wagon and dress up play area for the kids to enjoy inside the visitor center. NOTE: Due to COVID-19 the dress up play area is not currently available.
Throughout the year park interpreters have guided tours and hikes. One of the popular tours available is the evening boat ride on Lake Fort Smith. Visitors can board a pontoon boat and see the lake under the stars while hearing about the history and ecosystem of the park. (Due to COVID-19 this tour may currently be unavailable.) For a complete listing of available park activities click here.
One of our favorite things to do at Lake Fort Smith is Geocaching. The park currently has multiple caches to find. Many of which have easy access from the hiking trails. One that we personally placed in 2008 requires a boat or kayak to reach, as it is on the opposite side of the lake than the park. If you aren’t familiar with Geocaching it is simply treasure hunting with a GPS.
Nearby Attractions
Just a short drive away is the White Rock Recreation Area. It has beautiful views, picnic tables, and several hiking trails. It’s a great way to spend a day.
Just below White Rock is Shores Lake Recreational Area. You can swim in the lake and it has a small beach in the day use area. Camp sites are currently closed due to COVID-19, but this is still a neat area to see for a short day trip.
Nearby places to eat include Grandma’s House Café, Sky-Vue Lodge, Dairy Dream, and Mountainburg’s newest restaurant Uptown Frills. I would recommend any of these places. Each is unique in its own special way.
Final Thoughts
The next time you want a COVID Friendly vacation or a short day trip, why not consider visiting one of the Arkansas State Parks? There are many things to do and see and each one of the 52 parks is unique and beautiful. We hope you will come join us on the challenge of doing 21 Arkansas State parks in 2021. Remember… Life’s Short… Take the Trip!
For more information about COVID Friendly travel check out our Travel Tips page.
