Mountain Bike, Hike, Or Explore A Lake At An Under-The-Radar State Park In Arkansas' Ozarks

With over 10,000 state parks across the U.S., travelers need to be selective about which ones they visit. We usually pick parks near our homes or journey to one of the top 10 — think Waimea Canyon State Park in Hawaii or Valley of Fire State Park in Nevada. However, for years, mountain bikers in the know have flocked to an underrated state park in Arkansas that rivals the best state parks in America. 

Covering over 2,500 acres in the Ozarks, Devil's Den State Park boasts mountain biking trails winding through ancient geological formations, shady campsites, an 8-acre lake filled with fish, and world-class recreational opportunities. Devil's Den is also one of the few state parks that offers a pool. Overlooking the lake, it's only open during the summer months and offers an alternative to the many swimming holes along Lee Creek. There's even a swimming hole at the campground. You could spend weeks here and never get bored, but we recommend allotting at least three days for your Arkansas adventure.

Much of the park's beauty can be attributed to the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), whose workers toiled to dam the lake, creating a retainer that mimics the rock formations in the forest. Although over 80 years old, the dam and other improvement projects are in excellent condition — a true testament to the craftsmanship. Not only do these projects make Devil's Den one of the most spectacular state parks, but they also improve overall accessibility. 

In terms of recreation, the centerpiece of this impressive state park is the incredible trail system, featuring paths for mountain bikers, hikers, overnight backpackers, and horseback riders. Trails cut through jagged sandstone outcroppings with tumbling cascades, caves, and greenery on all sides. During the autumn months, hardwood trees shed their foliage, creating a blanket of golden leaves across the rugged landscape and dampening even the quietest sounds. 

For intermediate to advanced mountain bikers, Devil's Racetrack can't be missed. By far the most popular route, it winds through rock outcroppings with hidden fossils, under waterfalls, and across streams. Although the official route is divided into three segments and totals 3.7 miles, numerous jump or extension lines can extend your ride to over 14 miles. Keep an eye out for hikers, as the trail is technically multi-use. Other popular mountain biking routes include We Can Take It and Sparky (bike-only). However, the 3-mile Outlaw Loop is best for beginners even though there's a creek bed crossing. 

See the caves up close when you hike the 1.1-mile Devil's Den Trail. Although you can't enter the caves due to the bat population, you can peek inside, and the path takes you by the river and several waterfalls. For an overnight backpacking adventure, embark on Butterfield Hiking Trail, a former stagecoach route and one of the only backpacking loops in Arkansas. This 15-mile trail offers scenic views of the Ozarks and great primitive campsites.

Although you can't swim in the lake, there are plenty of other water-centric activities for your enjoyment. Rent canoes, pedal boats (they're great for families), kayaks, and even water bicycles from the park, or launch your own boat off the dock. Throw in a line and try to hook bass, catfish, and bream. During the summer months, grab a meal at the café overlooking the swimming pool, or check out the park store. 

In terms of accommodation, Devil's Den State Park offers excellent options, including 135 campsites, 17 full-service cabins, and nine camper cabins. The full-service cabins are utterly charming and come with a fireplace, a kitchen, air conditioning, heating, sheets, and satellite TV. Choose from cabins with up to three bedrooms. The camper cabins are a more rustic option without the aforementioned amenities, but they come with air conditioning and heat. The campsite selection includes full hook-up sites, non-hook-up sites, bike-in sites, and the horse camp. Many boast direct views of Lee Creek. We recommend reserving your preferred spot early during the summer and fall months.

The campgrounds offer direct access to many of the park's most popular trails. It's best to research the trails before your trip, and make sure you're up-to-date on must-know hiking terms for interpreting the maps. Also, check the right-of-way plaques at the trailhead, as many of the paths are multi-use.