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Burns Park: North Little Rock's Outdoor Oasis

Explore 1700 acres of fun: sports, trails, history, and attractions in North Little Rock's premier municipal park.

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Burns Park, a sprawling 1,700-acre municipal park in North Little Rock, Arkansas, offers a diverse range of recreational activities and natural beauty. From sports complexes and amusement rides to tranquil trails and historical landmarks, the park provides something for everyone.

A brief summary to Burns Park

Local tips

  • Bring comfortable shoes to explore the extensive trail system, ranging from paved paths to natural surface trails.
  • Check the North Little Rock Parks and Recreation website for event listings, including sports tournaments, concerts, and holiday activities.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the many picnic areas and pavilions throughout the park.
  • Visit Funland Amusement Park for seasonal fun, but check operating hours in advance.
  • Be aware that Burns Park was a former military training site, and while rare, old munitions have been found. If you see anything suspicious, leave it alone and call 9-1-1.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Burns Park is accessible from Interstate 40, Exit 150. Follow the signs for Burns Park. Parking is available throughout the park near the various attractions and facilities. Parking is free. Note that some areas may have limited parking during peak times or special events.

  • Public Transport

    While direct public transportation to Burns Park may be limited, Rock Region METRO operates bus routes in North Little Rock. Check the Rock Region METRO website or app for the most up-to-date route information and schedules. From downtown North Little Rock, you may be able to take a bus to a nearby location and then walk or take a short taxi or ride-share to the park. A single bus fare is $1.25.

  • Ride-sharing

    Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in North Little Rock. A ride from downtown North Little Rock to Burns Park will typically cost between $10 and $20, depending on demand and traffic.

Unlock the Best of Burns Park

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Discover more about Burns Park

Burns Park, one of the largest city-owned parks in the United States, is a true gem in North Little Rock, Arkansas. Spanning 1,700 acres, the park's land has evolved from private ownership to military training grounds and finally to a public recreational space. Originally, the US government purchased around 6,000 acres between 1900 and 1915, establishing Camp Pike for WWI soldier training. Evidence of this history can still be found in the park's trails in the form of foxholes. In 1937, Camp Pike was renamed Camp Robinson and expanded significantly during World War II, serving as a basic training camp and prisoner of war housing. After the war, surplus land was sold, and Dr. William Burns spearheaded an effort to acquire a portion for a park. His dedication led to the creation of pavilions, roads, trails, and a lake, and in 1950, the park was named in his honor. Today, Burns Park boasts an impressive array of amenities. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy 17 soccer fields, 22 tennis courts, basketball courts, and baseball and softball complexes. Two 18-hole golf courses and multiple disc golf courses cater to golfers. For outdoor fun, there are off-leash dog parks, playgrounds, picnic areas, and an archery range. A pre-Civil War log cabin and a covered bridge offer glimpses into the past, while Funland Amusement Park provides thrills for all ages. The park also provides access to the Arkansas River Trail, a 15-mile loop connecting several parks. While a tornado in March 2023 caused significant damage, the park has made great strides in recovery, with most areas now open to the public. Visitors can once again enjoy the trails, sports facilities, and scenic beauty that make Burns Park a beloved destination.

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