Mount Magazine State Park
Perched atop Arkansas’s highest point, Mount Magazine State Park offers sweeping views, cool mountain air, and a dramatic bluff-top setting. Visitors come for scenic overlooks, hiking, wildlife viewing, and lodge amenities in a rugged Ouachita-like mountain landscape.
Free
Visiting with Dogs
Dogs allowed in park areas and on trails if leashed; not allowed in buildings or swimming areas. Clean up after pets.
Visitor Tips & Reviews
What Visitors Say
Stunning mountain views, scenic overlooks, hiking trails, cool breezes, and peaceful cabins make Mount Magazine a favorite for nature lovers, photographers, and relaxing getaways.
Tips from Visitors
- Check weather before hiking; mountain conditions change quickly.
- Bring water and snacks; services may be limited on trails.
- Wear sturdy shoes for rocky paths and steep overlooks.
- Arrive early for popular viewpoints and parking.
- Pack layers; temperatures can be cooler at higher elevations.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Mount Magazine State Park is spring or fall, when temperatures are mild and the views are often clearest. Wildflowers, colorful foliage, and comfortable hiking weather make these seasons especially rewarding.
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Explore these attractions near Mount Magazine State Park:
- Cove Lake Recreation AreaA nearby lake area offering fishing, picnicking, and relaxed water recreation in a forested setting.18 miles away
- Mount Nebo State ParkAnother scenic mountaintop park known for overlooks, cabins, and hiking opportunities in the Arkansas River Valley.42 miles away
- Petit Jean State ParkA classic Arkansas state park with waterfalls, bluff views, and historic CCC-era features.58 miles away
Things to Do at Mount Magazine State Park
Camping at Mount Magazine State Park
Mount Magazine State Park offers tent and RV camping, cabins, and yurts with hookups, restrooms, showers, reservations, and scenic mountain views.
Hiking Trails
Mount Magazine State Park offers some of Arkansas’s most scenic day hikes, with trails that range from easy walks to more challenging climbs. Hikers often praise the sweeping overlooks, cool mountain breezes, and varied terrain through forests and rocky bluffs. Popular routes like Signal Hill and the North Rim Trail provide rewarding views, especially at sunrise or sunset. Trails are generally well maintained and family friendly.
Signal Hill Trail
EasyA short, scenic trail to the highest point in Arkansas with expansive overlooks and a summit marker.
North Rim Trail
ModerateA ridge-top hike with dramatic bluff views, forest sections, and several scenic overlooks along the rim.
South Rim Trail
ModerateA popular trail featuring sweeping views from the south side of Mount Magazine and access to multiple overlooks.
Cove Lake Trail
EasyAn easy lakeside walk with peaceful water views and a relaxed pace, good for families and casual hikers.
Directions
From Paris, take AR-309 south to the park entrance on Mount Magazine. Follow signs to the lodge and visitor areas; the final approach is a winding mountain road with steep grades and scenic overlooks.
Contact & Info
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year to visit Mount Magazine State Park?
Spring and fall are most popular for mild weather, clear views, and colorful scenery. Summer can be hot, but mornings and evenings are pleasant. Winter is quieter and can offer dramatic overlooks, though conditions may be colder and windier.
Are the hiking trails at Mount Magazine State Park difficult?
The park has a mix of easy to moderate trails, with some steeper sections and rocky areas. Many visitors say the trails are well-marked and rewarding, especially for views. Choose shorter trails if you want a lighter hike.
Can you see good views from the park without hiking far?
Yes. Several overlooks are accessible with little walking, and many visitors come mainly for the scenic mountain views. The lodge area and nearby viewpoints are popular for sunset and photography.
Is Mount Magazine State Park good for families?
Yes, many families enjoy the park for easy trails, picnic areas, overlooks, and the lodge. Reviews often mention that it feels peaceful and manageable for kids, though supervision is important near cliffs and steep drop-offs.
Does the park have lodging and dining options?
Yes. The park offers lodge accommodations, cabins, and a restaurant at the lodge. Visitors often praise the views from the lodge and dining area. It’s a good idea to reserve ahead, especially on weekends and holidays.
What should I know before visiting Mount Magazine State Park?
Bring water, comfortable shoes, and layers, since weather can change quickly on the mountain. Visitors often note that cell service may be limited in some areas. Check trail and weather conditions before you go.
Don’t Forget the Essentials
Essential camping & hiking gear we recommend to make your park trip easier and more comfortable.
View Gear Checklist →