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Proposed Fee Increases Could Change the Cost of Camping at Shady Lake Recreation Area
The U.S. Forest Service is seeking public comment on proposed recreation fee increases across the Ouachita National Forest, including changes that would affect visitors to the popular Shady Lake Recreation
Arkansas Trail Projects Update: What’s Happening Across the State in 2026
Arkansas continues to invest heavily in outdoor recreation infrastructure in 2026, with projects ranging from
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Proposed Fee Increases Could Change the Cost of Camping at Shady Lake Recreation Area
The U.S. Forest Service is seeking public comment on proposed recreation fee increases across the Ouachita National Forest, including changes that would affect visitors to the popular Shady Lake Recreation Area near Mena, Arkansas. The proposal comes just weeks after Shady Lake reopened for the 2026 season following major renovations and upgrades that added new accessible campsites, improved infrastructure, and introduced online reservations for the first time. Proposed Recreation Fee Changes According to the Forest Service, the proposed fee increases are intended to help cover the rising costs of operating and maintaining recreation facilities while supporting future improvements. Officials say
Proposed Fee Increases Could Change the Cost of Camping at Shady Lake Recreation Area
The U.S. Forest Service is seeking public comment on proposed recreation fee increases across the Ouachita National Forest, including changes that would affect visitors to the popular Shady Lake Recreation Area near Mena, Arkansas. The proposal comes just weeks after Shady Lake reopened for the 2026 season following major renovations and upgrades that added new accessible campsites, improved infrastructure, and introduced online reservations for the first time. Proposed Recreation Fee Changes According to the Forest Service, the proposed fee increases are intended to help cover the rising costs of operating and maintaining recreation facilities while supporting future improvements. Officials say
Northwoods Dawg Daze of Summer Returns to Hot Springs for 2026
The summer heat in Arkansas can make it difficult for outdoor athletes to stay motivated, but the Northwoods Dawg Daze of Summer challenge is designed to keep riders and runners
Federal Public Lands News: White Rock Road Reopens, New Motor Vehicle Maps Available, and a Summer Closure at Springhill Park
Several updates affecting Arkansas federal public lands were announced this week, including the reopening of a popular Ozark forest road, updated motor vehicle use maps for national forests, and temporary
Northwoods Dawg Daze of Summer Returns to Hot Springs for 2026
The summer heat in Arkansas can make it difficult for outdoor athletes to stay motivated, but the Northwoods Dawg Daze of Summer challenge is designed to keep riders and runners
Federal Public Lands News: White Rock Road Reopens, New Motor Vehicle Maps Available, and a Summer Closure at Springhill Park
Several updates affecting Arkansas federal public lands were announced this week, including the reopening of a popular Ozark forest road, updated motor vehicle use maps for national forests, and temporary
Climbing
5th Annual Arkansas Climbers Festival Returns to Horseshoe Canyon Ranch in 2026
The 5th Annual Arkansas Climbers Festival returns to Horseshoe Canyon Ranch in Jasper from Friday, March 27, through Sunday, March 29, 2026. This three-day celebration of climbing culture brings together
New Climbing Area at Petit Jean State Park
Petit Jean State Park in Arkansas is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and rich history. Now, this beloved park is adding a new chapter to its legacy: rock climbing. For
For the Love of Climbing: From Rock Bottom to Rock Faces — How Climbing Gave Katie Jo Myers Life
By Sharon Bennett, featuring Katie Jo Myers Climbing is more than just a sport. It is a source of strength, hope, and community for many. In this installment of For the Love
Hiking & Backpacking
How to Protect Your Dog from Summer Heat on Outdoor Adventures in Arkansas
With another scorching Arkansas summer underway, the trails, rivers, and parks of the Natural State are calling. If you are bringing your dog along, a little preparation goes a long
Get Out There: Enjoying Arkansas Summers Without the Itch
Arkansas is a paradise for outdoor lovers in the summer. From the misty peaks of the Ozark Mountains to the forests of the Ouachita National Forest, from the clear waters
Bear Aware in Arkansas: How to Avoid Bear Encounters While Hiking and Camping in Bear Country
Arkansas earned the nickname The Bear State long before it became known as The Natural State, and today that nickname once again fits. After black bears were nearly wiped out
Paddling
Drought Conditions Postpone Recreational Water Releases Below Remmel Dam
Paddlers hoping to catch scheduled whitewater and recreational releases on the Ouachita River this summer may have to wait for wetter conditions. Entergy Arkansas announced that full-generation recreational flows from
Northwest Arkansas Finally Gets Its Own Water Trail
Upper Illinois River Water Trail Opens in Benton County Northwest Arkansas has become nationally known for its extensive hiking and mountain biking trail systems, but until now, one of the
Memorial Day Float Trip Guide: Arkansas’s Best Floats for the Long Weekend
From the Ozarks to the Ouachitas, these four Arkansas rivers deliver unforgettable paddling for every skill level this holiday weekend. Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial middle of float season
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