Introduction

Discover Crowley's Ridge State Park, a geological marvel that rises dramatically from the flat Mississippi River Delta, offering visitors an extraordinary window into Arkansas's natural heritage. This unique park represents more than just a recreational destination—it is a living museum of geological processes, ecological diversity, and cultural history. From its wind-sculpted terrain to its rich biodiversity, Crowley's Ridge tells a compelling story of landscape evolution, inviting visitors to explore a terrain that stands as a testament to the dynamic forces that shape our natural world.

Background

Nestled along the distinctive Crowley's Ridge, this state park offers a remarkable blend of geological wonder and ecological diversity. The park encompasses approximately 350 acres of forested terrain, featuring walking trails that wind through mixed hardwood forests, providing visitors with stunning views of the surrounding delta landscape. Unique to this region, the ridge creates a microclimate that supports a diverse array of plant and animal species not typically found in the surrounding flatlands, making it a critical ecological corridor and a fascinating destination for nature enthusiasts and researchers.

History

The Crowley's Ridge State Park sits upon a remarkable geological formation that tells a profound story of natural transformation. This unique landform is a remnant of an ancient geological process, created during the last ice age when wind-blown sediments formed a distinctive ridge rising above the surrounding Mississippi River Delta. Native American tribes, including the Osage and Cherokee, traversed this landscape for centuries, followed by European settlers who recognized the ridge's strategic importance and agricultural potential. The park itself was established in 1933 as part of the Civilian Conservation Corps efforts, preserving both the natural landscape and the cultural heritage of northeastern Arkansas.

Address: 2092 AR-168 North, Paragould, AR 72450Get Directions

Total Trail Length: 5 miles

Fees: $5 day use

Hours: 7am-sunset

Phone: (870) 573-6185

More Info: Arkansas State Parks