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Arkansas
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Arkansas State Parks

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USA Parks
Arkansas
Ouachitas Region
Mount Nebo State Park
Mount Nebo State Park © Bryan Scott Manley
Mockingbird © stateparks.com
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MOUNT NEBO STATE PARK
MOUNT NEBO STATE PARK
16728 West State Highway 155
Dardanelle, Arkansas   72834

Phone: 479-229-3655
Reservations: 479-229-3655
Email: park email button icon
Rising 1,350 feet, Mount Nebo offers sweeping views of the Arkansas River Valley. In 1933, a portion of the mountain was chosen as a park site. Native stone and logs from Mount Nebo were used by the Civilian Conservation Corps to construct many of the park's bridges, trails, rustic-style cabins and pavilions. The park offers 35 campsites (25 Standard B; 10 Hike-in) [no dump station] and 14 fully-equipped cabins with kitchens.

History of the Area
Located in Arkansas, this park was established as a health resort by the late 19th century. It became popular for its cool breezes and panoramic views of the River Valley.

In 1909, it transitioned into private ownership under W.B. Duncan who constructed numerous cabins on site to accommodate visitors.

The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) acquired control during the Great Depression era around 1933-34. The CCC made several improvements including building roads, trails and pavilions within the park boundaries.

Post World War II saw an increase in tourism which led to further development such as camping sites and additional facilities like swimming pools being added over time.

It is now managed by Arkansas State Parks Department since its acquisition from private hands back in early '70s.

Cabins
In addition to the campsites at Mount Nebo State Park, the Park service also operate 14 comfortable cabins with fully-equipped kitchens and fireplaces that are available for rent.

Housekeeping cabins are fully furnished with central heat and air conditioning. They have a full kitchen with electric range/oven, refrigerator, microwave, drip coffee maker w/filters, can opener, toaster, mixer, blender, skillets, pots and pans, baking pans, cooking utensils, basic dishes, glasses and silverware. We also furnish kitchen towels, dishcloths, oven mitts, dishwashing soap, mop, broom and dustpan. We provide pillows, blankets, linens, washcloths, iron and ironing board. Beds are queen-size, with the exception of the two bedroom A-Frame, and each cabin has at least one queen-size sleeper sofa, a fireplace or wood burning stove and a 19" TV/VCR combination with indoor antenna. Each cabin has a wooden deck or rock patio with a pedestal grill and picnic table and either a woods' view or mountain view.

Camping
1. Mount Nebo State Park offers 34 campsites with water and electricity for tents or RVs.
2. There are also 14 fully:equipped cabins available, some featuring stunning cliff-side views.
3. Primitive camping is an option on the Bench Trail; however, no facilities are provided here.
4. Group Camp Area provides lodging for up to 30 people in dormitory:style accommodations with a kitchen/dining hall included.
5. Yurt rentals offer unique circular tent:like structures equipped with modern amenities like beds and furniture.




Picnicking
Mount Nebo State Park offers scenic picnic areas with tables and grills, overlooking the Arkansas River Valley. Enjoy shaded spots or sunny overlooks for a relaxing meal outdoors. There are also pavilions available for larger groups by reservation, providing sheltered picnicking options amidst nature's beauty.
Bicycling
Cyclists should be mindful of the challenging terrain and varying trail conditions. The Bench Trail offers a moderate ride, while Sunrise Loop is less demanding but still requires attention to safety. For mountain biking enthusiasts seeking more rigorous paths, the technical Varnall Springs route presents steep climbs and descents.

Always wear helmets, carry water, check weather forecasts before heading out on any trails here. It's crucial to respect trail closures for maintenance or hazardous conditions when they occur.

Note that some pathways may intersect with pedestrian routes; exercise caution at such intersections to ensure everyone's safety. Keep in mind your skill level-some tracks are not suitable for beginners due to their difficulty.

Lastly, always stay updated on park regulations regarding cycling activities as these can change periodically based on environmental impact assessments or other considerations by park management.
Trails
Fourteen miles of trails encircle Mount Nebo. For mountain biking enthusiasts, the 4 1/2-mile Bench Trail is a fairly level route encircling the side of 1,350-foot Mount Nebo. As you ride through the mixed hardwood and pine forest, you'll pass historic springs and Fern Lake, and see rock work done by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the early 1930s. This is an excellent ride for your family's first mountain biking adventure. You can choose from primitive campsites located at intervals along the Bench Trail, or stay in the park campground.

Birding
The park offers diverse birding habitats including forests, open areas, and water sources. Birders can spot warblers, vireos, tanagers during migration seasons. Year-round residents include woodpeckers, hawks, owls; spring brings hummingbirds and orioles. The Sunrise Point is a notable area for observing birds at dawn. Visitors may use the park's trails to explore different environments conducive to varied bird species.
Area Attractions
Mount Nebo State Park is one of the Arkansas state parks system's two parks offering launch sites for hang gliding enthusiasts. [NOTE: The other park offering launch sites for hang gliders is Mount Magazine State Park located high atop Arkansas's highest mountain, Mount Magazine, near Paris.]


Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
July 31 Beautiful Park
park review stars; one to five I had the pleasure of a drive thru visit and everything that I saw made me want to make plans for a stay there
October 19 Good for day trips by Megan
park review stars; one to five This is a great park, we have small kids and we are able to spend the day there, If you hike this is a GREAT park... many trails to choose and the difficulty varys with each. But camping on the other hand I was disapointed. Perfect day time spot....
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Area Campgrounds
Ivy's Cove RV Retreat
321 Bradley Cove Road
Russellville, AR
479-280-1662
Nearby Hotels
Booking.com

Directions
The park is located seven miles west of Dardanelle on Ark. 155. [NOTE: Ark. 155 zigzags and includes hairpin curves. Trailers over 24 ft. should not attempt the climb up Mount Nebo.

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Arkansas
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Arkansas State Parks

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