The 2,500-Acre Arkansas State Park Everyone Should See
I still remember the first time I stood on Yellow Rock, wind in my hair, staring 300 feet down at the valley below—and wondering how Arkansas managed to keep this place a secret.
Devil’s Den State Park feels like something out of a storybook, the kind of hidden treasure that makes you fall in love with the outdoors all over again.
Nestled in 2,500 acres of rugged Ozark wilderness, it’s a perfect blend of natural wonder and living history—stone bridges, winding trails, and timeless views. If you’ve been overlooking Arkansas, one visit here will change that for good.
Meet the Park
Deep in the Boston Mountains of the Ozarks, Devil’s Den State Park spreads across 2,500 acres of bluffs, creeks, caves and CCC-era stonework—a picture-perfect slice of wild Arkansas. A native-stone dam on Lee Creek forms 8-acre Lake Devil, and miles of trails thread out into surrounding Ozark National Forest.
Walking through here feels like stepping back in time, where nature and craftsmanship shake hands. The landscape is rugged but welcoming, wild but accessible.
Every corner reveals another reason to stop, breathe, and soak it all in. This isn’t just a park—it’s an experience wrapped in stone and forest.
Is It Open Right Now?
Yes—open and operating! The official park page lists year-round facilities including the visitor center, camping, and cabins, plus an active calendar of ranger-led events. Note that some specific trails are temporarily closed, like Devil’s Den Trail and Butterfield Trail, per the park’s current notices—always check the park page before you go.
Planning ahead saves disappointment and keeps your trip smooth. Trail conditions can shift with weather, so a quick website check is your best friend.
The park stays lively all year, but summer brings the cafe and pool to life. Winter offers quieter trails and cozy cabin vibes.
A Living CCC Time Capsule
Chosen as a park site in the 1930s, Devil’s Den is one of the most intact Civilian Conservation Corps sites in the U.S.—think cabins with fireplaces, pavilions, bridges and trails built of local stone and timber. Exploring here is as much about New Deal craftsmanship as it is about scenery.
You can run your hand along walls built by young men during the Great Depression, each stone placed with care and purpose. History isn’t just taught here—it’s felt.
These structures have aged like fine wine, blending seamlessly into the forest. It’s architecture that tells a story worth listening to.
Signature Overlooks and Classic Hikes
If you’re picking one viewpoint, make it Yellow Rock, a bluff 300 feet above Lee Creek with sweeping valley views—a moderate loop that takes around two hours. The park also offers family-friendly nature paths and longer loops when open—study current trail status before setting out.
Standing on that rock feels like being on top of the world, or at least the best part of Arkansas. The hike rewards every step with scenery that cameras can’t quite capture.
Families love the easier trails, while seasoned hikers crave the challenge. There’s something for everyone, no matter your pace or fitness level.
Mountain Biking That Punches Above Its Weight
Devil’s Den pairs old-school singletrack like Fossil Flats with newer Monument Trails flow—so you can spin mellow miles or chase technical challenges, all right from the campground area. It’s a rare state-park setup where hiking and biking both feel destination-worthy.
Riders rave about the variety, and honestly, it’s hard to find another state park that delivers this much two-wheeled fun. The trails wind through woods, over rocks, and past views that make you forget you’re working hard.
Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a casual cruiser, the terrain keeps things interesting. Pack your bike—you’ll thank yourself later.
Stay the Night: Cabins and Camps
Choose from full-service CCC cabins—studios to three-bedrooms, many with fireplaces—or 135 campsites including Class AAA RV hookups, hike-in and bike-in sites, and even a horse camp. The visitor center and park store operate seasonally posted hours; the cafe and pool run in summer. Book early for peak weekends.
Waking up in a stone cabin with a crackling fire is the kind of magic that makes mornings worth getting up for. Campers get the full outdoor experience with modern conveniences nearby.
Weekends fill fast, so don’t wait to reserve your spot. This is the kind of place people return to year after year.
Plan Your Perfect Day
Base at the 11333 W AR Hwy 74, West Fork entrance; arrive early to park near trailheads. Hike Yellow Rock, picnic by the stone dam, then catch a ranger program or a golden-hour spin on the Monument Trails. Before you go, recheck the alerts for any day-of closures and trail advisories.
Early birds get the best parking and the trails to themselves, which is worth setting an alarm for. The stone dam makes for a perfect lunch spot with views that beat any restaurant.
End your day watching the sun dip behind the hills while pedaling or hiking. Smart planning turns a good visit into an unforgettable one.