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Arkansas
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Arkansas State Parks

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Arkansas
Mississippi Valley Delta Region
Crowley Ridge State Park
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CROWLEY RIDGE STATE PARK
CROWLEY RIDGE STATE PARK
2092 Highway 168 North
Paragould, Arkansas   72450

Phone: 870-573-6751
Reservations: 870-573-6751
Email: park email button icon
Located atop the forested hills in northeast Arkansas known as Crowley's Ridge, this park occupies the former homestead of Benjamin Crowley, whose family first settled this area.

Native log and stone structures constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s set the mood for this park's rustic warmth. Park facilities include four fully-equipped, modern duplex cabins with kitchens; a group lodging area featuring five bunk cabins, a kitchen/dining hall and bathhouse; 26 campsites--18 Standard B and eight Tent sites; picnic areas; snack bar; trails; standard pavilions; baseball field; 31-acre fishing lake (electric motors only); and a 3 1/2-acre swimming lake. Interpretive programs are offered here at the park throughout the year.

History of the Area
Located in northeastern Arkansas, the park was established in 1933. It spans across 291 acres of land on Crowley's Ridge. The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) developed it during the Great Depression era.

The CCC built five rustic-style cabins and a bathhouse which are still standing today. They also constructed Lake Ponder, named after Benjamin F. Ponder who donated much of the initial land for development.

In addition to its natural beauty, this area is historically significant as former Governor Mike Huckabee's childhood home region.
Lodge
Accommodations available for up to 60 persons in five separate heated and air-conditioned bunk cabins. The park's group facility includes a modern bathhouse, a large dining hall with kitchen, and a large open pavilion. Pets are not permitted; however, service animals are welcome.

Cabins
Our fully equipped duplex housekeeping cabins include: Sofa-bed, fireplace, kitchen, shower, air conditioner/heater,cable television and Wi-Fi wireless access. Also included are dishes, pans, utensils, etc., range, refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, toaster, iron and ironing board, pillows, towels, and linens. BBQ grill, ground grill, and picnic table are located outside each cabin. There are no telephones in the cabins.

Group lodging area includes a dining hall/kitchen, group bathhouse, outdoor pavilion with picnic tables and grills, an outdoor volleyball court and group fire ring. The entire facility is located on a 31-acre fishing lake. All buildings are heated/air conditioned. This area accommodates up to 60 people and is available for rent throughout the year.

Camping
Our fully equipped duplex housekeeping cabins include: Sofa-bed, fireplace, kitchen, shower, air conditioner/heater, and cable television. Also included are dishes, pans, utensils, range, refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, toaster, iron and ironing board, pillows, towels, and linens. BBQ grill, ground grill, and picnic table are located outside each cabin. There are no telephones in the cabins.

Group lodging area includes a dining hall/kitchen, group bathhouse, outdoor pavilion with picnic tables and grills, an outdoor volleyball court and group fire ring. The entire facility is located on a 31-acre fishing lake. All buildings are heated/air conditioned. This area accommodates up to 60 people and is available for rent throughout the year.


Location
Crowley Ridge State Park is located near Jonesboro, Paragould and Jonesboro

Trails
Dancing Rabbit Trail

Length: 1.25 miles Time: 1 hour Difficulty: Moderate Brochure: Available at visitor center

Description: The park was once a campground for Native Americans who named the setting of this trail the Dancing Rabbit Arroyo. The Spanish word "arroyo" stands for deep gulley. This trail leads hikers along this gulley, formed years ago by erosion, over two swinging bridges, and loops back to the visitor center.

Lake Ponder Trail

Length: .45 miles Time: 1/2 hour Difficulty: Easy Brochure: Available at visitor center

Description: View the plants of Crowley's Ridge from a rustic-style boardwalk and stone overlook in the unique construction style of the Civilian Conservation Corps. Many CCC structures are visible along the trail and are highlighted by wayside exhibits outlining the park's rich history.

Spider Creek Trail

Length: 1 mile Time: 1/2 hour Difficulty: Moderate Brochure: Available at visitor center

Description: The trail begins at the southern end of the picnic area and features a diversity of plant and animal life. Wildflowers are particularly numerous around the spring.

Walcott Lake Trail

Length: .5 miles Time: 1/2 hour Difficulty: Easy Brochure: Available at visitor center

Description: This easy trail atop the fishing lake levee offers a chance to view shorebirds as well as the best vantage point to view the park's bat condo.

Nature Programs
'Wild About Wildlife!' School Day : Teachers, sign up your students for a "wild" time in the great outdoors and enjoy a day filled with fun educational programs all dealing with the wildlife found on Crowley's Ridge. Registration required at least two weeks in advance.

Memorial Day Madness : This weekend, bring your friends and family to Crowley's Ridge State Park, and kick off the start of summer with recreational activities, interpretive programs, hiking, and pedal boating. Contact the park for a schedule.

Discovery Day Camp : This fun-filled educational and recreational day camp, for kids in grades 1-4, includes programs, games, nature hikes, swimming, and crafts. Fee includes all lunches, snacks, and craft supplies. Contact the park for further details and registration information.

Lake Ponder Beach Area : Celebrate the Fourth of July with recreational activities, interpretive programs, swimming, pedal boating, and games while listening to music provided by a DJ on the beach!

Fishing Derby on the Ridge : Kids, put your fishing skills to the test! Just bring your fishing pole (one pole per child), bait, and enthusiasm to compete for prizes that will be awarded in several categories. This event is open to anyone ages 15 and under.


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Directions
Crowley's Ridge State Park is located 15 miles north of Jonesboro on Ark. 141; or nine miles west of Paragould on U.S. 412, then two miles south on Ark. 168.

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Arkansas
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Arkansas State Parks

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