St. Francis National Forest: An Eastern Arkansas Gem

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.