AR State Parks: LAKE CHARLES STATE PARK

This hike IS PET-FRIENDLY, but dogs are not allowed on the beach.

Our goal in this series is to visit all 52 state parks. This month’s park is:

LAKE CHARLES STATE PARK
https://www.arkansasstateparks.com/parks/lake-charles-state-park
3705 Hwy. 25
Powhatan, AR 72458

We will meet at the Bass Pro Pyramid north parking lot off Front Street (the smaller parking lot close to auto bridge over to Mud Island) at 8:45 am for those who would like to carpool. We will leave at 9:00 am.

About this park:
A half-hour from Jonesboro and about 1.5 hours from Memphis, Lake Charles State Park is a peaceful place located on a 645-acre lake filled with bass, crappie, bream, and catfish. In fact, it’s the place where the largest number of 20-inch bass have been caught in Northeast Arkansas. A full line of bait and tackle is available at the visitor center from March through October. There are 60 campsites, a third of which are Class AAA, with many spots right on the water. A YURT offers an additional lodging option. The park is also a great getaway in fall and winter months with four hiking trails.

Arkansas State Parks list:
https://www.arkansasstateparks.com/parks

Planned Hike: WHITE OAK TRAIL [map]
Trail Type: Day Hikes | Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 1.5 miles
Time: 1.5 - 2 hours hiking time
Hiking times may vary.

This 1.5 mile loop trail meanders across intermittent streams and along the lake shoreline. Wear sturdy shoes and carry drinking water in warm weather. This trail winds through a natural area, but it will only remain this way if we "take nothing but pictures and leave nothing but footprints."

Food: DORA'S SALE BARN CAFE
For those who would like to join us for a meal afterward, we are planning on eating at DORA'S SALE BARN CAFE, 706 Townsend Dr, Pocahontas, AR 72455
Current Yelp Review: Incredible burger and fries. The burger is a hand made patty cooked up fresh when you order it. Perfectly soft bun and wonderfully fresh ingredients. Fries were piping hot. Ambiance is 10/10 comfy and cozy. Everyone was kind and helpful even to someone passing through. If you're passing through go here!