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We are embarking on an exciting journey to visit all 52 state parks in Arkansas, spreading our adventure over ten weekends to make it more manageable and allow us to fully explore each park. This approach allows us to immerse ourselves in the unique beauty and history of each location. Along the way, we’ll highlight the parks that captivate us the most, making note of those we hope to revisit for even deeper experiences in the future. It’s a perfect blend of discovery, adventure, and appreciation for Arkansas’s natural and cultural treasures.
This weekend, you’ll be heading to the southwest Arkansas state parks. You will also have the opportunity to explore the communities of Hope, Texarkana and Magnolia. If you’re in Hope during mid-summer, get a watermelon.
Southwest Arkansas State Parks
This weekend trip will focus on six parks located in southwestern Arkansas.
- Historic Washington
- Millwood Lake
- Conway Cemetery
- Logoly
- Poison Springs
- White Oak Lake
Where To Stay:
For this leg of our 52 State Parks adventure, we spent one night at Millwood Lake and one night at White Oak Lake State Park. Both parks have camping facilities, but neither offers cabins. If you prefer something a little more modern, I recommend staying in Texarkana for the first night, where a stop at Three Chicks Feed & Seed is a must. For the second night, head to Magnolia and grab a sweet treat at Arkansas’ Oldest Bakery.
Day 1
Historic Washington – 2-4 Hours
If you love history, today’s journey is right up your alley. Historic Washington is chock full of history, and it’s well worth spending a few hours. This captivating journey back in time offers a glimpse into life during the 19th century. Here, you can explore the Brunson House, a beautifully preserved example of mid-1800s architecture, or step into the Hempstead County Courthouse, now the park’s visitor center, where you can delve into the area’s history through engaging exhibits. Don’t miss Williams’ Tavern Restaurant, where you can enjoy traditional Southern cuisine in a historic setting. The B.W. Edwards Weapons Museum is a must-see, showcasing a remarkable collection of historical arms. For a touch of spirituality and community history, the Methodist Church, built in 1865, is a testament to the town’s cultural fabric. With its charming streets and well-preserved buildings, Historic Washington State Park is a window into the past, making it a perfect spot for history buffs and casual visitors alike.
The park offers the Jailhouse Bed & Breakfast, but getting reservations can be tricky, especially for a spur-of-the-moment trip. It’s highly recommended that you plan in advance if you have time. Do note that the restaurant is only open from 11 to 3 and is closed on Monday.
Millwood Lake – Overnight
Must See:
- Fishing Opportunities – Millwood Lake is known for its excellent fishing, particularly for largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and bream. The lake’s diverse habitat supports a variety of fish species, making it a popular spot for both novice and experienced anglers.
- Visitor Center – The visitor center provides comprehensive information about the park, its history, and the available activities. It’s an excellent starting point for your visit to Millwood State Park.
- Waterfowl Way Trail – This 1.5-mile self-guided hiking trail offers a leisurely walk through a wildlife sanctuary, ideal for birdwatching and enjoying the natural surroundings. Special blinds along the trail enhance the viewing experience.
- Bird Watching—The National Audubon Society designated Millwood Lake an Important Bird Area (IBA), and it hosts over 300 bird species. Bird enthusiasts can spot species like the Hooded Merganser, Osprey, and Painted Bunting, as well as water birds such as the Anhinga and Purple Gallinule.
- Beaver Lodge Viewing – One of the coves along Wildlife Lane is home to an active beaver lodge. Early morning or evening walks offer a chance to spot these industrious animals in their natural habitat.
If Time Allows:
- Wildlife Lane Trail – This is a 4-mile hiking and bicycle trail that winds through lowland bottoms and along the edge of Millwood Lake. It is perfect for observing diverse wildlife, including beavers and, occasionally, alligators.
- Marina—The full-service marina offers boat rentals, fishing supplies, and other amenities. It’s a convenient hub for water activities and a great place to gather tips on fishing from local experts.
- Interpretive Programs – Seasonal interpretive programs led by park rangers include tours, demonstrations, and special events, offering educational experiences about the park’s natural and cultural history.
Day 2
If you didn’t get to go birding or check out the Beaver Dam last night, it’s worth taking some time this morning. Kids will especially enjoy watching the beavers play around in the dam.
Conway Cemetery – 30 Minutes
Conway Cemetery State Park is a small yet historically significant site that serves as the final resting place of James Sevier Conway, the first governor of Arkansas. This tranquil park, nestled in a wooded area, offers visitors a quiet place to reflect and appreciate the state’s early history. The cemetery is well-maintained and features a historical marker that provides context about Conway’s contributions to Arkansas during his tenure from 1836 to 1840. You will need a crayon to create a rubbing in your passport book, as the cemetery doesn’t have a visitor center.
Logoly State Park – 1- 2 Hours
Logoly State Park is a beautiful 1,250-acre park surrounding Lake Logoly. It’s the perfect spot for fishing, kayaking, and paddle boating. The park also features several miles of hiking trails that wind through lush woodlands, providing ample opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife observation. One of the highlights is the park’s unique collection of native plant species, showcased in its educational gardens. The Logoly State Park Nature Center offers interactive exhibits and educational programs, making it a great spot for families and nature enthusiasts.
White Oak Lake State Park – Overnight
The park’s centerpiece, White Oak Lake, is ideal for boating, fishing, and swimming, with opportunities to catch bass, catfish, and bream. We loved the camping area that circled the lake, which was one of our favorite places to stay. The park features a variety of hiking trails that meander through its dense hardwood forests and wetlands, offering prime birdwatching spots where you might spot species like the Bald Eagle or the Prothonotary Warbler. The park’s visitor center provides educational exhibits on the local wildlife and ecosystem.
Must See:
- Beech Ridge Trail – This trail is easy but a little longer than some at 2 miles. It winds through beautiful forests and is very scenic.
- Bank Fishing – We spent some time fishing from the bank. No major fish tales, though!
- Visitor Center – Visitor centers are always a highlight, and we enjoy stamping our passports.
If Time Allows:
- Fern Hollow Trail – Fern Hollow is a 10-mile hiking and biking trail. You can view various wildlife and wildflowers, plus the resurrection ferns, which are the trail’s namesake. These interesting ferns grow up the trunks of trees and can appear dead in dry weather but will perk back up when moisture returns.
Day 3
We did this trip in three days because we also spent some time exploring Texarkana and Magnolia. If you are pressed for time, you can squeeze Poison Spring in on day two and head home for a late-night return rather than staying at White Oak Lake.
Poison Springs Battleground State Park – 30 Minutes – 1 Hour
Poison Springs Battleground State Park commemorates the site of the Battle of Poison Springs, which occurred on April 18, 1864, during the Civil War. This battle was part of the larger Camden Expedition and is notable for its strategic implications and the tragic loss of life. Visitors to the park can explore interpretive exhibits that provide a detailed account of the battle and its impact on the war’s outcome. The park offers a place to reflect on the soldiers who fought and died there. It is a poignant destination for history enthusiasts and those looking to understand more about this critical period in American history.
Note: This park does not have a visitor center or facilities. Bring a green or blue crayon to mark your passport at the rubbing station.
Photos courtesy of Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism.
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Nice
I live in Hot Springs.