Felsenthal State Park wilderness guide
State Park · AR

Felsenthal State Park

Felsenthal State Park offers a unique blend of swampy bottomlands and expansive lakes, making it a premier destination for fishing, birdwatching, and outdoor recreation in southeastern Arkansas.

State Park14004+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

1400

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Felsenthal State Park

Felsenthal State Park offers a unique blend of swampy bottomlands and expansive lakes, making it a premier destination for fishing, birdwatching, and outdoor recreation in southeastern Arkansas.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Located in Union County in southeastern Arkansas, Felsenthal State Park spans a mixture of cypress swamps, bottomland hardwood forests, and large lake areas formed by the D'Arbonne and Saline Rivers meeting the Felsenthal Lock and Dam. The park is known for its rich wetland ecology, including bald cypress and tupelo trees, and provides important habitat for numerous species of waterfowl, deer, and fish. The park was established in 1976 and offers a peaceful environment for fishing, especially for trophy largemouth bass, catfish, and crappie in the adjacent Ouachita and Saline River systems. Boating and canoeing are popular on the extensive waterways, while anglers and hunters also come for the park's abundant game and fish. Felsenthal State Park has 21 developed campsites along the lake shore, a boat ramp, picnic areas, and a visitors center with interpretive exhibits. It lies within a largely forested region of Arkansas and serves as a gateway to the surrounding National Wildlife Refuges and other conservation areas. The park attracts outdoor enthusiasts looking for quiet water experiences, wildlife observation, and relaxation among the unique wetland landscape. Birders can observe a wide variety of waterbirds, including egrets, herons, and bald eagles. The park’s remote feel combined with accessible amenities makes it ideal for family outings and serious anglers alike.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Felsenthal State Park

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

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Felsenthal Lock and Dam providing unique waterway access and fish habitat✦ Old-growth bald cypress swamps with abundant wildlife viewing opportunities✦ Excellent largemouth bass fishing acclaimed statewide✦ Remote boat-accessible backwater channels for paddling adventures
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Felsenthal State Park

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

Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Felsenthal State Park
Park Recreation

Boating

Available in Felsenthal State Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Felsenthal State Park
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in Felsenthal State Park
Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Felsenthal State Park
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Felsenthal State Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Felsenthal State Park
Park Recreation

Picnicking

Available in Felsenthal State Park
Park Recreation

Hunting

Available in Felsenthal State Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Felsenthal State Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Felsenthal State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Daily vehicle entrance fees apply; Arkansas State Parks Pass accepted

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 Felsenthal State Park

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

Felsenthal Campground

Located near the lake shore with 21 sites including water and electric hookups, close to boat ramps and picnic areas.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Felsenthal State Park

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

El Dorado, Arkansas
⌖ 12.65 miles
Gateway Basecamp

El Dorado, Arkansas

El Dorado offers outdoor lovers a charming town setting with lake paddling, hiking forest trails, and vibrant cultural events. It's a perfect spot for relaxing adventures any time of year.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Bernice, Louisiana
⌖ 13.91 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Bernice, Louisiana

Bernice, Louisiana is a serene small town perfect for anglers, paddlers, and nature lovers seeking quiet lakeside adventures with hiking and birding in the surrounding pine forests.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Norphlet, Arkansas
⌖ 19.73 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Norphlet, Arkansas

Norphlet is a quiet Arkansas town perfect for outdoor lovers who enjoy peaceful hiking, fishing, and paddling trips. With nearby forests and lakes, it’s great for relaxed nature escapes and rustic camping.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Lisbon, Louisiana
⌖ 20.64 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lisbon, Louisiana

Lisbon, Louisiana offers quiet outdoor adventures centered on paddling, fishing, and bird watching around Catahoula Lake. Its peaceful wetlands and wildlife refuges create a perfect escape for nature lovers seeking untouched scenery.

Fall through early Spring
Explore Town
Farmerville, Louisiana
⌖ 22.39 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Farmerville, Louisiana

Farmerville is a tranquil Louisiana town best known for Lake D'Arbonne’s excellent fishing, boating, and camping opportunities. It’s a peaceful spot for outdoor lovers seeking water activities and quiet forest trails.

Spring to Fall
Explore Town
Union Parish, Louisiana
⌖ 22.39 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Union Parish, Louisiana

Union Parish, Louisiana offers quiet outdoor adventures centered around paddling, fishing, and hiking. With scenic lakes and peaceful campgrounds, it’s a great spot for travelers seeking nature away from crowds.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Felsenthal State Park

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