Arkansas Game and Fish Commission Wildlife Management Areas wilderness guide
Wildlife Management Area · AR

Arkansas Game and Fish Commission Wildlife Management Areas

The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission Wildlife Management Areas are vast protected zones offering diverse habitats and a rich variety of outdoor recreational opportunities.

Wildlife Management Area3,200,0004+ Trails

Designation

Wildlife Management Area

Total Wilderness Area

3,200,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Arkansas Game and Fish Commission Wildlife Management Areas

The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission Wildlife Management Areas are vast protected zones offering diverse habitats and a rich variety of outdoor recreational opportunities.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Arkansas Game and Fish Commission Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) are distributed across the state, protecting important habitats for wildlife and providing residents and visitors with extensive outdoor recreational activities. These areas are vital for the conservation of the region's diverse ecosystems, spanning forests, wetlands, and river valleys. The history of these WMAs dates back to conservation efforts initiated to preserve the state’s natural habitats and wildlife populations. Recreational offerings include hunting, fishing, hiking, and wildlife observation, making them popular destinations for outdoor enthusiasts. Birdwatchers will appreciate observing migratory and native species, while anglers flock to the well-stocked rivers and lakes. Each WMA may have its unique set of species and habitat emphasis that makes it special. These areas are a haven for various animals, including white-tailed deer, turkey, and waterfowl. With several miles of maintained trails and numerous campsites, visitors can enjoy the wilderness experience and disconnect from urban life.

Field Guide · Wildlife Management Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Arkansas Game and Fish Commission Wildlife Management Areas

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Unique bird-watching hotspots across various habitats✦ Opportunities for deer and turkey hunting during specific seasons✦ Lakes and riverbanks perfect for bass and crappie fishing✦ Scenic rivers for kayaking and canoeing enthusiasts
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Arkansas Game and Fish Commission Wildlife Management Areas

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Arkansas Game and Fish Commission Wildlife Management Areas
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Arkansas Game and Fish Commission Wildlife Management Areas
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Arkansas Game and Fish Commission Wildlife Management Areas
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Arkansas Game and Fish Commission Wildlife Management Areas
Park Recreation

Hunting

Available in Arkansas Game and Fish Commission Wildlife Management Areas
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in Arkansas Game and Fish Commission Wildlife Management Areas
Park Recreation

Canoeing

Available in Arkansas Game and Fish Commission Wildlife Management Areas
Park Recreation

Kayaking

Available in Arkansas Game and Fish Commission Wildlife Management Areas
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Arkansas Game and Fish Commission Wildlife Management Areas
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Arkansas Game and Fish Commission Wildlife Management Areas
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Arkansas Game and Fish Commission Wildlife Management Areas.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Some areas require permits for certain activities such as hunting and fishing.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Arkansas Game and Fish Commission Wildlife Management Areas

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Bayou Meto Wildlife Management Area

Popular during hunting seasons, accessible with appropriate permits.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Arkansas Game and Fish Commission Wildlife Management Areas

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Little Rock, Arkansas
⌖ 0.94 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Little Rock, Arkansas

Discover Little Rock's outdoor charm, from hiking Pinnacle Mountain to kayaking the Arkansas River. This vibrant city invites adventure seekers with incredible trails, parks, and nature centers.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
North Little Rock, Arkansas
⌖ 1.97 miles
Gateway Basecamp

North Little Rock, Arkansas

North Little Rock offers riverfront adventures, from hiking and biking along the Arkansas River Trail to paddling its waters. With parks, fishing spots, and nearby state parks, it’s a great outdoor basecamp close to Arkansas’s capital city.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Fairfax, Arkansas
⌖ 5.72 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Fairfax, Arkansas

Fairfax is a small Arkansas town that serves as a gateway to peaceful hiking, paddling, fishing, and camping in the nearby Ozark National Forest and Buffalo National River. Ideal for travelers seeking quiet outdoor experiences.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Jacksonville, Arkansas
⌖ 12.73 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Jacksonville, Arkansas

Jacksonville offers easy access to hiking, biking, paddling, and fishing near the Arkansas River and wooded parks. With family-friendly parks and outdoor recreation throughout spring to fall, it’s a practical basecamp for Central Arkansas adventures.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Mayflower, Arkansas
⌖ 16.62 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Mayflower, Arkansas

Mayflower is a peaceful town along the Arkansas River that offers quiet hiking, fishing, paddling, and bird watching close to nature preserves and waterways. It’s a great low-key destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking calm, uncrowded adventures.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Lonoke, Arkansas
⌖ 22.31 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lonoke, Arkansas

Lonoke, Arkansas offers outdoor lovers tranquil paddling, birdwatching, hiking, and fishing in Central Arkansas’s natural wetlands and farmland. It’s a peaceful spot for exploring wildlife refuges and enjoying quiet country adventures.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Arkansas Game and Fish Commission Wildlife Management Areas

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Hand‑Bottle a Barrel: An Hour at Rock Town Distillery in Little Rock
ADVEXPEDITION
Little Rock, Arkansas
Guided TourADV Bookable

Hand‑Bottle a Barrel: An Hour at Rock Town Distillery in Little Rock

A 60‑minute, adults‑only distillery visit where you tour the Still House, Bottling Room, and Barrel House, taste unfiltered barrel whiskey, and fill, label and wax‑dip your own 750 mL single‑barrel Arkansas Bourbon.

Guided TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip