Lake Chicot State Park

Rate this place

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Chicot State Park is a popular destination located in Southeastern Arkansas, not Missouri, and is the biggest natural lake in the state.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

It is known for its beautiful scenery, diverse wildlife, and recreational activities. The park offers various outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, hiking, camping, and picnicking. The park has several species of birds, snakes, and other animals that can be observed while hiking on the park's trails.

One of the park's most prominent points of interest is Chicot Lake, which is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and swimming. The park also features a boat ramp, a marina, and several fishing piers. The park also has several campsites and cabins, making it a perfect place for a family vacation or a weekend getaway.

During the fall, the park is known for its foliage, which attracts many visitors. Additionally, the park's wildlife is most active during the spring and summer months. It is important to note that the park is closed from December to February due to the winter season.

In conclusion, Lake Chicot State Park is a beautiful destination that offers visitors a chance to enjoy nature's beauty and participate in outdoor activities. Its diverse wildlife, Chicot Lake, and camping facilities make it a must-visit for anyone looking for an adventure in Arkansas.

       

Weather Forecast

Park & Land Designation Reference

National Park
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References