Bradley County: Heat Advisory until 8:00 PM.
Bradley County: Heat Advisory until 8:00 PM.
Union County: Heat Advisory until 8:00 PM.
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Arkansas State Parks encourages safe recreation ahead of impending heat wave

Photo courtesy of Arkansas State Parks.
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – The temperatures across Arkansas are heating up and Arkansas State Parks is encouraging all visitors to recreate responsibly and stay safe while enjoying outdoor adventures. Park staff remain prepared to welcome guests with hospitality and guidance, and remind everyone that memorable moments can still be made safely, even in hot conditions with the right preparation.​Hot Weather Hiking Tips Arkansas State Parks recommends the following precautions for anyone planning to hike during extreme heat:​Make sure you choose the right trail: Review maps and select routes that match your ability. Consider exploring a shaded, shorter trail if your original plan is better suited for cooler weather.Check the weather: Stay aware of heat advisories and thunderstorms. Whenever possible, plan athletic activities for early morning or evening hours.Carry plenty of water: Bring at least one liter (32 ounces) of water per person, and water for pets. Begin hydrating early, before you feel thirsty.Stay together: Let the slowest hiker set the pace and keep your group close.Watch for heat illness: If you feel dizzy, weak or overheated, it’s okay to turn back. Our parks will be here to welcome you on a cooler day.Take breaks often: Make sure to enjoy the journey. Rest in shade whenever possible.​For visitors seeking experiences that allow them to beat the heat, Arkansas State Parks offers many enjoyable options:If you want to be on the Water:Whenever Watersports kayak and paddleboard rentals: https://wheneverwatersports.com/findlocationGuided Lake adventures including:Kayak & Snorkel Adventure (DeGray Lake Resort State Park)Swim & Cruise Lake Tour (DeGray Lake Resort State Park)Snorkel Adventure on Bull Shoals Lake (Bull Shoals–White River State Park)Senior Kayak Tour (Lake Fort Smith State Park)Wildlife at the Lake Kayak Tour (Lake Sylvia Recreation Area)Morning Kayak Tour (Hobbs State Park–Conservation Area)Paddleboard Test Drive (Lake Dardanelle State Park)Stand Up Paddleboarding for Beginners (DeGray Lake Resort State Park)Beat the heat below ground:Blanchard Springs Caverns tours – naturally cool year-round https://www.arkansas.com/state-parks/explore/parks/blanchard-springs-cavernsIndoors & Air-Conditioned:Spend time learning about the history and culture of Arkansas in our indoor visitor centers. They can be great places to cool off and plan future fall or winter hikes. Many locations also feature Outfitter stores with snacks, drinks and Arkansas State Parks merchandise. Here are just a few of our parks that offer indoor learning opportunities.Plum Bayou Mounds Archeological State Park & Plantation Agriculture Museum State ParkPetit Jean State Park Visitor Center exhibitsPinnacle Mountain State Park Visitor Center exhibitsLogoly State Park Visitor Center exhibitsJacksonport State Park Visitor Center exhibitsArkansas State Parks invites guests to enjoy the outdoors safely and responsibly. With planning and proper hydration, you can still experience the spirit of adventure that makes our parks special. We look forward to welcoming you, no matter what adventure you choose in our parks.
Arkansas State ParksArkansas State Parks is a division of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism. Arkansas state parks and museums cover 55,006 acres of forest, wetlands, fish and wildlife habitat, outdoor recreation facilities, and unique historic and cultural resources. Established in 1923, Arkansas State Parks preserve special places for future generations, provide quality recreation and education opportunities, enhance the state’s economy through tourism and provide leadership in resource conservation. Connect with ASP on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, and visit ArkansasStateParks.com and ArkansasStateParks.com/media to learn more.​Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and TourismThe Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism protects and promotes our state’s natural, cultural and historic assets, contributing to a thriving economy and high quality of life. It is made up of three divisions: Arkansas State Parks, Arkansas Heritage and Arkansas Tourism.
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