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Mississippi River State Park: Where Delta Meets Ridge

Explore the natural beauty of the Arkansas Delta at Mississippi River State Park: camping, hiking, lakes, and the Mississippi River.

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Nestled where the Arkansas Delta plains meet Crowley's Ridge, Mississippi River State Park offers a unique blend of hardwood forests, scenic lakes, and access to the mighty Mississippi. It's a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with camping, hiking, and water activities.

A brief summary to Mississippi River State Park

  • Monday 8 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-5 pm
  • Friday 8 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit the park's visitor center to learn about the history and ecology of the Mississippi River Delta.
  • Bring binoculars for birdwatching, as the park is part of the Audubon Great River Birding Trail.
  • Check the Arkansas State Parks website for information on interpretive programs, events, and possible closures.
  • Consider bringing your own kayak or canoe to explore the lakes and waterways.
  • Be prepared for varying weather conditions, as the Arkansas Delta can experience hot summers and mild winters.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Marianna, AR, head east on Highway 44 for approximately 9 miles. The park's visitor center will be on your left. To reach the Bear Creek Lake Recreation Area, continue on Highway 44 for another 3 miles. There is no fee to enter the park, but camping fees apply. Parking is available at the visitor center and at the recreation areas.

  • Walking

    From the visitor center, several hiking trails are accessible, including the Trotting Fox Trail and the Bear Creek Lake Nature Trail. These trails offer scenic views of the lake and surrounding forest. The trails are free to use.

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Discover more about Mississippi River State Park

Mississippi River State Park, located near Marianna, Arkansas, offers a diverse landscape where the flatlands of the Delta meet the rolling hills of Crowley's Ridge. This creates a unique environment with hardwood forests, three scenic lakes, and access to the Mississippi River. The park provides a range of recreational activities, making it a destination for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers. The park's location provides a fascinating glimpse into the region's history and ecology. The St. Francis National Forest surrounds the park, offering additional opportunities for exploration. Visitors can explore the All American Great River Road and Crowley's Ridge Parkway, both National Scenic Byways, for wildlife viewing and historical sites. Mississippi River State Park features three campgrounds: Beech Point, Lone Pine, and Storm Creek Lake. Beech Point offers full hookups, while Lone Pine provides a primitive camping experience. Storm Creek Lake also has camper cabins available. Visitors can enjoy boating, kayaking, fishing, and swimming in the park's lakes. Hiking trails wind through the forests, providing opportunities to observe the diverse flora and fauna. The visitor center offers interactive exhibits that tell the story of the Mississippi River and its importance to the region. The park's history is intertwined with the surrounding St. Francis National Forest. The area was once cleared for agriculture but came under public ownership in the 1930s. The Works Progress Administration (WPA) built Bear Creek Lake and Storm Creek Lake during the Great Depression. Mississippi River State Park was authorized in 1973, with Arkansas State Parks beginning management in 2009.

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