State Parks and National Parks

Cossatot River State Park Natural Area

The Cossatot River State Park follows 12 miles of one of the most rugged and spectacular river corridors in the central United States. The park embraces 5,302 acres of rugged wooded slopes, outstanding geological features and clear, cascading water.

Little-disturbed cedar glades and old-growth forests cover many of the steeper slopes. The leopard darter and the Ouachita Mountain shiner are two rare fish species found in the river. Rare plants include waterfall's sedge and the Ouachita Mountain twistflower.

Class III, IV and even Class V rapids rile the Cossatot River, making it a favorite with skilled canoeists, rafters and kayakers. The rocky canyon of Cossatot Falls excites even the most experienced paddlers.

The river is at floatable levels only in late fall, winter and spring. The Hwy. 246 bridge offers access to the river. Information about river heights and conditions is available by calling 870-387-3141. A walkway high above the river provides access to the river's west side.

There are the 14-mile River Corridor Trail and the 3.5-mile Harris Creek Trail.

A six-site primitive camping area, with a restroom, is located at Cossatot Falls off Hwy. 278.

The nearby Brushy Creek Access Area, at the junction of Hwy. 246, Brushy Creek and the Cossatot River, offers 10 picnic sites with tables and grills.

The visitor center is at U.S. 278, where it crosses the Cossatot River between Wickes and Umpire.

Two staff naturalists are available.

Photo credits in order: Courtesy of Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism. Photo by Tim Schick, courtesy of Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism. Photo by A.C. Haralson, courtesy of Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism.