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Volunteer Opportunities Help Build and Maintain Central Arkansas Trails
Outdoor recreation in Arkansas continues to grow, but the trails, parks, and green spaces people enjoy every weekend do not maintain themselves. Behind many of the state’s best outdoor destinations

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
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Volunteer Opportunities Help Build and Maintain Central Arkansas Trails
Outdoor recreation in Arkansas continues to grow, but the trails, parks, and green spaces people enjoy every weekend do not maintain themselves. Behind many of the state’s best outdoor destinations are volunteers who spend countless hours clearing brush, repairing trails, building new connections, and helping keep public lands accessible for everyone. Two upcoming volunteer events in Central Arkansas highlight how local organizations, agencies, and everyday outdoor enthusiasts are working together to improve trails and strengthen the outdoor community. Help Complete the Maumelle Pinnacles Connector Trail On Saturday, June 6, Central Arkansas Water and several partner organizations will host a volunteer

Volunteer Opportunities Help Build and Maintain Central Arkansas Trails
Outdoor recreation in Arkansas continues to grow, but the trails, parks, and green spaces people enjoy every weekend do not maintain themselves. Behind many of the state’s best outdoor destinations are volunteers who spend countless hours clearing brush, repairing trails, building new connections, and helping keep public lands accessible for everyone. Two upcoming volunteer events in Central Arkansas highlight how local organizations, agencies, and everyday outdoor enthusiasts are working together to improve trails and strengthen the outdoor community. Help Complete the Maumelle Pinnacles Connector Trail On Saturday, June 6, Central Arkansas Water and several partner organizations will host a volunteer

Southwest Trail Ribbon Cutting Postponed Due to Weather
The ribbon-cutting ceremony for Saline County’s first completed segment of the Southwest Trail has been postponed due to forecasted inclement weather. The event was originally scheduled for Friday, May 29,

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

Southwest Trail Ribbon Cutting Postponed Due to Weather
The ribbon-cutting ceremony for Saline County’s first completed segment of the Southwest Trail has been postponed due to forecasted inclement weather. The event was originally scheduled for Friday, May 29,

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
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


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























