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St. Francis National Forest: An Eastern Arkansas Gem

Discover Arkansas's natural beauty at St. Francis National Forest: Hike, camp, and explore the Mississippi River shoreline.

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St. Francis National Forest, nestled in eastern Arkansas, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. As the only national forest where the public can access the Mississippi River shoreline, it provides a special connection to this iconic waterway. Explore hardwood forests, enjoy water activities, and discover scenic byways within this tranquil natural escape.

A brief summary to St. Francis National Forest

Local tips

  • Visit in the fall to experience the vibrant colors of the hardwood forests along the scenic byways.
  • Bring binoculars for wildlife viewing, as the forest is home to diverse species.
  • Check for campfire restrictions before your visit, especially during dry seasons.
  • Explore the Mississippi River State Park within the forest for additional recreational opportunities.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Marianna, AR, head east on Highway 44. The St. Francis National Forest is accessible via multiple points along this highway. Look for signs indicating forest access and recreation areas. Parking is available in designated areas throughout the forest. There are no tolls on Highway 44.

  • Public Transport

    While there is no direct public transportation to St. Francis National Forest, you can take a bus from Little Rock to West Memphis, AR, and then a taxi to Marianna. From Marianna, a taxi or rideshare service (Uber) can take you to the forest. Be aware that rideshare availability may be limited in Marianna. The bus fare from Little Rock to West Memphis is approximately $25-$60. The taxi fare from West Memphis to Marianna is approximately $100-$130. Taxi or Uber from Marianna to St. Francis National Forest will vary depending on the distance, but expect to pay around $20-$40.

Unlock the Best of St. Francis National Forest

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Discover more about St. Francis National Forest

St. Francis National Forest, established in 1960, is a treasure of eastern Arkansas, covering approximately 22,600 acres. Situated on Crowley's Ridge, with portions extending into the lowlands along the Mississippi and St. Francis Rivers, the forest presents diverse landscapes and ecosystems. It holds the distinction of being the only national forest in the country where visitors can directly access the Mississippi River from the shoreline. The forest is named after the St. Francis River, which forms part of its eastern boundary. Dominated by bottomland hardwood trees, primarily oak and hickory, the area provides habitat for a variety of wildlife, including deer, wild turkey, and waterfowl. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, including camping, hiking, fishing, and scenic drives. Several trails wind through the forest, offering opportunities for exploration and wildlife viewing. Two National Scenic Byways, the Great River Road and Crowley's Ridge Parkway, traverse the forest, providing particularly stunning views during the fall. Mississippi River State Park is located within the St. Francis National Forest and offers additional recreational facilities. The forest's history dates back to the Mariana-Helena Project, managed by the U.S. Soil Conservation Service. In 1960, it was designated as the St. Francis National Forest and placed under the administration of the Ozark National Forest. Today, the Ozark-St. Francis National Forests are jointly managed, preserving this unique natural area for future generations.

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