Arkansas State Parks System

RVNeophytes2 · 04-24-2011, 11:50 AM

Apparently, one percent of all state tax revenue is channeled into the park system here; there are some great locations!

We're at Queen Wilhelmina, a scenic mountaintop location in the Ouchita Mountains.

For trip planning: this location can remain cloud-bound, while just several hundred feet below the elevation visibilities are good
Staff refuse to refund money paid, even if park is empty. Consider paying a few days at a time.
Restaurant facilities are available, but lodge is in need of upkeep/rennovation
Easy, scenic two-hour drive to Hot Springs
Either approach to the park is suitable for RVs, the non-Good Sam route along Hwy 88 is narrow but has good overhead clearance
Water pressure is very high
The park website is inoperative/decommissioned
Natl Forest entrance information/tourism center at the corner of Highway 88 outside of Mena is very nice, staffed with RV volunteers (start of scenic 17 mile drive to state park entrance. Use caution of low-hanging branches thick enough to cause damage, in RV parking spot
No dump capability at Queen Wilhelmina sites, all of which are 30 amp back-ins

During high season, this might be a nice spot for travel with kids/grandkids. There is a miniature train, playground, steam locomotive to climb on, short trails for wearing them down prior to bedtime.