MORO BAY, Ark. — Moro Bay State Park has announced a slate of free holiday-week programs, including guided hikes, boat tours, a reading of the Declaration of Independence and a reptile program.
In a recent update, the park said rain upstream caused the Ouachita River to rise over the weekend to about 70 feet. The river had already fallen about a foot at the time of the update, and park staff said conditions were expected to be good for the Fourth of July weekend.
Park staff also reported recent wildlife sightings, including baby red foxes, deer and otters.
Programs scheduled at Moro Bay State Park include:
Wednesday, July 1
A 250th Anniversary Painting Stars craft program will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. in the Nature Room at the visitor center. The program is free, but space is limited to the first 24 people who sign up. Participants will paint a star in recognition of America’s 250th anniversary.
Friday, July 3
A free guided hike will begin at 9 a.m. at the Low Water Trailhead, located past the ferry. The easy hike will cover about one-quarter mile through bottomland hardwood forest. Participants are encouraged to wear walking shoes and bring bug spray.
A boat tour is also planned from 3 to 4 p.m. at the visitor center. Seating is limited, and those wishing to attend are asked to sign up in advance by calling 870-463-8555 or visiting the park’s visitor center. Donations are welcome to help cover fuel costs.
Saturday, July 4
The park will host “A Gathering for the Reading of the Declaration of Independence” from 11 to 11:15 a.m. at the visitor center. The program will include a brief discussion of how and why America came into being as part of the nation’s 250th birthday celebration.
A boat tour is also scheduled Saturday morning, with registration requested because of limited seating.
At 3:30 p.m., visitors can attend “Reptiles of Moro Bay” in the visitor center’s Nature Room. The free program will feature the park’s live baby alligator and information about reptiles found in and around Moro Bay State Park.
Sunday, July 5
Another free guided hike is planned from 8 to 8:40 a.m. at the Low Water Trailhead. A boat tour will follow from 10 to 11:15 a.m. at the visitor center, with advance registration requested.
All outdoor programs are subject to cancellation because of weather conditions. For more information, contact Moro Bay State Park at 870-463-8551.
