Cossatot River State Park Campground

Open — Open year-round for camping. Restrooms operate without water or heat. The visitor center operates daily 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. from March through November, and with reduced hours December through February.

About

Deep in the Ouachita Mountains of southwest Arkansas, Cossatot River State Park-Natural Area extends for 12 miles along the National Wild and Scenic Cossatot River. The park offers primitive tent camping at three locations with a total of 23 sites: Cossatot Falls Area has 6 sites, Sandbar Area has 15 sites, and Ed Banks Area has 2 sites. None of the campsites have hookups, water, or electricity. The centerpiece of the park is Cossatot Falls, a rugged rocky canyon with Class IV rapids that challenges experienced kayakers and canoeists when rainfall increases the watershed. The combination of rugged topography, exposed rock formations, natural vegetation, and sparkling water creates spectacular scenery. Hikers can explore four scenic trails spanning nearly 20 miles, including the River Corridor Trail, Harris Creek Trail, Brushy Creek Nature Trail, and Waterleaf Interpretive Trail. The visitor center features interactive exhibits, a wildlife observation room, meeting room, and gift shop, with interpretive programs offered year-round. Brushy Creek Recreation Area provides additional picnic sites, restrooms, and river access. A primitive group camping area called River Ridge Group Camp is available by reservation. Restrooms are open year-round throughout the park but operate without water or heat during winter months.

Directions

The visitor center is located eight miles east of Wickes on Highway 278, near where the highway crosses the Cossatot River. Individual camping areas are accessed via improved gravel logging roads from Highway 278.

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