Situated on a unique geological formation in northeast Arkansas, Crowley's Ridge State Park is an outdoor pup's paradise! Previously a campground for Native Americans, this 291-acre site was established by the Civilian Conservation Corps as one of the six original state parks in Arkansas. The area's puptacular scenery, rustic atmosphere, and exciting recreational opportunities will certainly have your pooch's tail wagging non-stop!
For the athletic doggo who likes being on the move, Crowley's Ridge contains 4.5 miles of trails that weave through beautiful forest. The pawpular .75-mile Spider Creek Trail will lead you and your pup into a mixed hardwood and pine forest, where there are plenty of opportunities to spot various flora and fauna. Keep your eyes peeled for wild turkey, grey foxes, white-tailed deer, downy woodpeckers, and Carolina chickadees!Â
For an easier route, check out the .5-mile Walcott Lake Trail, which travels along the top of the fishing lake levee, or the .45-mile Lake Ponder Barrier-Free Trail, which is suitable for visitors with disabilities or strollers. Observe good trail petiquette by always keeping your pup on a leash and cleaning up after them. Bring your own bags, and water to share too!
After all that walking, stop for lunch at one of the many picnic areas scattered throughout the park. Picnic spots are equipped with tables and grills, so you can cook up some burgers and veggies to share with your dog. After lunch, hop into a rented pedal boat with Fido and continue exploring the park by water. Both Lake Ponder and Walcott Lake are open to boaters and kayakers.
If you would like to extend your adventure, Crowley's Ridge has a dog-friendly campground with RV and tent sites, tucked away in a secluded area amidst tall trees. There are also full service cabins that come with modern amenities such as satellite television, electric kitchens, heating, and air conditioning. Note that only one unit allows dogs, though, so book early!
Whether you spend a day or a weekend at Crowley's Ridge State Park, you and Fido will surely have a pawtastic time!