Arkansas State Park Guide

Mount Magazine State Park

Mount Magazine State Park is home to Arkansas's highest point at Signal Hill, along with dramatic mountain overlooks, forested hiking trails, sandstone bluffs, camping, cabins, The Lodge at Mount Magazine and a wide range of outdoor recreation in the Ozark Mountains.

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Mount Magazine State Park Overview

Mount Magazine State Park occupies the summit area of Mount Magazine in western Arkansas and protects a mountain landscape of forests, bluffs, valleys and scenic overlooks. At 2,753 feet above sea level, Signal Hill is the highest point in Arkansas.

Why visit: Mount Magazine combines mountain hiking, scenic overlooks, camping, cabins, lodge accommodations, wildlife viewing and outdoor adventure.

Signature attraction: Signal Hill is the highest point in Arkansas and is reached by the Signal Hill Trail.

Landscape: Visitors can experience forested ridges, sandstone bluffs, deep hollows and broad views across the Arkansas River Valley.

Best for: Hiking, scenic drives, photography, camping, cabins, families, wildlife watching and mountain getaways.

Signal Hill and the Highest Point in Arkansas

Signal Hill is the highest point in Arkansas at 2,753 feet above sea level. The high point is located within Mount Magazine State Park and is one of the park's main attractions for hikers and visitors interested in Arkansas geography.

Signal Hill Trail: The trail leads from the Cameron Bluff Campground area toward the highest point on the mountain.

Stone map: A stone map of Arkansas marks the high point and is one of the distinctive features at Signal Hill.

Elevation: The summit reaches 2,753 feet above sea level and represents the highest natural point in Arkansas.

Spring and summer: The area supports a variety of plants and songbirds and can be especially interesting for nature observation.

Hiking Trails at Mount Magazine State Park

Hiking is one of the main ways to experience Mount Magazine. Trails travel through hardwood forests, ridges, bluffs, hollows and historic areas, with routes ranging from shorter walks to longer and more demanding hikes.

Signal Hill Trail: A moderate route leading to the highest point in Arkansas.

North Rim Trail: Follows the northern edge of the mountain through forest and bluff country toward Cameron Bluff.

Mossback Ridge Trail: Travels along the ridge and connects with several other park trails.

Benefield trails: Shorter loop options provide opportunities for hiking, wildflowers, historic features and scenic views.

Cameron Bluff and Mountain Overlooks

One of the defining features of Mount Magazine is the network of overlooks along the mountain's rim. Cameron Bluff and other viewpoints provide opportunities to look across the Arkansas River Valley and surrounding mountain landscape.

Cameron Bluff: The bluff area provides expansive views from the mountain's edge.

North Rim: The North Rim Trail follows the edge of the mountain through forest and bluff terrain.

Petit Jean Valley: Views extend across surrounding valleys and distant mountain landscapes.

Photography: Bluffs, forests, valleys and changing seasonal light make the mountain attractive for landscape photography.

The Lodge at Mount Magazine and Cabins

The Lodge at Mount Magazine provides overnight accommodations on the mountain and is one of the park's best-known facilities. The property includes guest rooms, dining and mountain views, while cabins provide another option for visitors who want to stay overnight.

The Lodge: The lodge offers guest rooms and mountain views along with the Skycrest Restaurant and indoor recreation facilities.

Cabins: Fully equipped cabins provide another overnight option and include private outdoor spaces with mountain views.

Indoor pool: An indoor swimming pool is available for lodge and cabin guests.

Reservations: Advance reservations are useful during weekends, holidays and popular seasonal periods.

Camping at Mount Magazine State Park

Mount Magazine State Park offers developed camping options for visitors who want to stay on the mountain. Camping provides convenient access to hiking trails, overlooks and other park facilities.

Cameron Bluff Campground: The campground includes developed sites with electrical, water and sewer hookups.

Brown Springs: Tent-only camping is available in the Brown Springs area.

Horse camp: Self-contained camping is available in the horse camp area for visitors using the designated equestrian facilities.

Reservations: Campsites are reservable, and busy weekends can fill well in advance.

Horseback Riding and Mountain Biking

Mount Magazine provides access to several types of outdoor recreation beyond traditional hiking. Visitors can enjoy designated horseback riding and mountain biking opportunities while exploring the mountain and nearby national forest.

Huckleberry Mountain Horse Trail: The trail system begins near the mountain and continues into the surrounding Ozark National Forest.

Horse camp: A designated horse camp provides facilities for visitors traveling with horses.

Mountain biking: Mountain biking is permitted on designated routes, including Will Apple's Road Trail and the Huckleberry Mountain Horse Trail.

Trail rules: Visitors should check current park and Forest Service rules before using multi-use or equestrian trails.

Mount Magazine History and Historic Sites

Mount Magazine has a long history of settlement, recreation and conservation. Families once lived and farmed on the mountain, while visitors were attracted by the cooler temperatures and scenic setting.

Early settlement: Farms, homesteads and other historic sites once occupied portions of the mountain.

Historic recreation: Mount Magazine became a destination for visitors seeking cooler mountain conditions and scenic surroundings.

WPA development: Roads, trails, campsites and other facilities were developed on the mountain during the 1930s and 1940s.

Historic trails: Will Apple's Road follows an old route associated with travel and transportation across the mountain.

Wildlife and Nature at Mount Magazine

Mount Magazine's elevation, forests, rock formations and varied habitats support a diverse range of plants and wildlife. Visitors can observe birds, wildflowers and other native species throughout the year.

Birdwatching: Forests, glades and open areas provide habitat for songbirds and other bird species.

Wildflowers: Seasonal wildflowers can be found along trails, roadsides and open portions of the mountain.

Forest habitat: Oak-hickory and pine forests create varied habitats across the mountain.

Wildlife viewing: Observe wildlife from a safe distance and never feed animals.

Rock Climbing, Hang Gliding and Outdoor Adventure

Mount Magazine also attracts visitors interested in more specialized outdoor activities. The mountain's bluffs and elevation create opportunities for rock climbing and hang gliding in designated areas, subject to current park rules and conditions.

Rock climbing: Climbing is permitted only in designated areas to help protect sensitive plants and wildlife.

Hang gliding: Hang gliding is permitted under park restrictions and requires visitors to follow current procedures.

Scenic recreation: Visitors who prefer a quieter experience can enjoy photography, nature observation and scenic drives.

Safety: Check with the visitor center before participating in specialized activities.

Planning a Visit to Mount Magazine State Park

Mount Magazine State Park works well for both day trips and overnight mountain getaways. Visitors can spend a few hours hiking to Signal Hill and visiting the overlooks or stay several nights to explore the trail system, historic areas and surrounding mountain landscape.

The park includes developed recreation areas, camping, cabins and The Lodge at Mount Magazine. Fees, reservations and availability vary by accommodation and activity, so visitors should check current Arkansas State Parks information before traveling.

Advance reservations are particularly useful for weekends, holidays and popular fall travel periods. This is especially important for visitors planning to stay at the lodge, cabins or campground.

Important Planning Tip

Check current weather, trail conditions and park information before your trip. Mount Magazine's elevation can produce different temperatures and weather conditions than surrounding valleys, and trails can become slippery after rain.

Best Time to Visit Mount Magazine State Park

Mount Magazine State Park can be visited throughout the year, but temperatures, foliage, rainfall and mountain weather can change the experience. Spring and fall are particularly attractive for hiking and scenic exploration.

Spring: Spring can provide comfortable hiking conditions, blooming vegetation and opportunities to see wildflowers and migrating birds. Check trail conditions after periods of rain.

Summer: Mount Magazine can be cooler than surrounding lowlands, making it attractive for summer hiking and camping. Afternoon storms and changing mountain weather can still affect outdoor plans.

Fall: Fall brings cooler temperatures and changing foliage across the mountain. Weekends can be busy during popular periods of autumn color.

Winter: Winter can provide quieter trails and different views through leafless forests. Cold temperatures, wind, rain and occasional wintry weather can affect roads and trails, so check conditions before traveling.

Mount Magazine State Park Hiking Guide

Hiking is one of the best ways to experience Mount Magazine. The park's trails travel through hardwood forests, ridges, bluffs, hollows and historic areas. Routes range from short walks to longer trails that connect with surrounding Forest Service recreation areas.

Signal Hill Trail

Signal Hill Trail leads to the highest point in Arkansas at 2,753 feet above sea level. The trail begins near Cameron Bluff Campground and provides access to the stone map and high-point marker at Signal Hill.

North Rim Trail

North Rim Trail follows the northern edge of Mount Magazine through hardwood forests, scrub oak areas and cedar glades. The route provides access to mountain scenery and connects with other trails for longer outings.

Mossback Ridge Trail

Mossback Ridge Trail travels along the mountain ridge and connects with several other routes, including Benefield, Greenfield, North Rim and Signal Hill trails.

Benefield Trails

The Benefield area provides shorter hiking options through forest and open areas, with connections to longer trails. It is useful for visitors looking for a less demanding introduction to the mountain.

Will Apple's Road Trail

Will Apple's Road follows an old route associated with travel across Mount Magazine. The trail passes historic features, old home sites, stone walls and other reminders of earlier settlement on the mountain.

Trail Conditions

Mountain trails can become muddy, slippery or more difficult following rain. Some routes include elevation changes, rocky surfaces and exposed bluff areas. Carry water, wear appropriate footwear and check current park information before starting a longer hike.

Cameron Bluff and Scenic Overlooks

Scenic overlooks are one of the major attractions at Mount Magazine. The mountain's elevated position provides views across the Arkansas River Valley, surrounding forests and distant mountains.

Camping and Lodging at Mount Magazine State Park

Mount Magazine offers several ways to stay overnight, including developed campsites, cabins and The Lodge at Mount Magazine. Staying on the mountain makes it easier to begin hikes early and enjoy the overlooks during different times of day.

Cameron Bluff Campground provides developed campsites with electrical, water and sewer hookups. Brown Springs provides tent-only camping, while the horse camp provides camping options for visitors using the equestrian facilities.

The Lodge at Mount Magazine and the park cabins provide more comfortable alternatives to traditional camping. Availability can be limited during busy weekends, holidays and popular seasonal periods.

Reserve Ahead

Check current Arkansas State Parks reservation information before traveling. Advance planning is especially useful for fall weekends, holidays and other busy periods.

History of Mount Magazine State Park

Mount Magazine has attracted settlers and visitors for generations because of its cooler mountain climate, forests and scenic setting. Farms, homesteads and early recreation facilities once occupied portions of the mountain.

During the 1930s and 1940s, federal work programs helped develop roads, trails, campgrounds, cabins and other facilities on Mount Magazine. Historic roads and other landscape features remain part of the mountain's story.

Will Apple's Road is one example of an older transportation route associated with the mountain's settlement history. Visitors can combine hiking and sightseeing with exploration of these historic resources.

Outdoor Recreation at Mount Magazine State Park

Mount Magazine provides a broad mix of outdoor activities. Visitors can combine hiking and scenic overlooks with camping, wildlife observation, cycling, horseback riding and other mountain recreation.

Visitors should follow current trail designations and park regulations for each activity. Conditions can change after rain, during periods of extreme heat or during winter weather.

Wildlife and Nature at Mount Magazine State Park

Mount Magazine's elevation and varied habitats support a diverse collection of plants, birds and wildlife. Forests, glades, sandstone areas and open mountain landscapes create different environments for nature observation.

Where Is Mount Magazine State Park?

Mount Magazine State Park is located on Mount Magazine in western Arkansas near Paris. The park is reached by Scenic Highway 309, which climbs the mountain and provides access to the visitor center, campground, lodge, cabins and other park facilities.

From Paris, visitors generally travel south on Scenic Highway 309 toward the mountain. From Havana, the park can be reached by traveling north on Scenic Highway 309.

Mountain roads can involve curves, elevation changes and changing weather conditions. Visitors should allow additional driving time and check current road and weather conditions before traveling.

Park Contact

Mount Magazine State Park: (479) 963-8502

Check current Arkansas State Parks information for park contact details, closures, trail conditions, camping reservations and lodging availability.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mount Magazine State Park

Where is Mount Magazine State Park?

Mount Magazine State Park is located on Mount Magazine in western Arkansas near Paris. The park is reached by Scenic Highway 309.

What is Mount Magazine State Park known for?

The park is best known for Signal Hill, the highest point in Arkansas, along with Cameron Bluff, mountain hiking, scenic overlooks, camping, cabins, The Lodge at Mount Magazine and outdoor recreation.

What is the highest point in Arkansas?

Signal Hill on Mount Magazine is the highest point in Arkansas at 2,753 feet above sea level.

Can you hike to the highest point in Arkansas?

Yes. The Signal Hill Trail leads visitors to the highest point in Arkansas. A stone map of Arkansas marks the high point.

How long is the Signal Hill Trail?

Arkansas State Parks lists the Signal Hill Trail at about 1.4 miles, with the trail beginning at Cameron Bluff Campground and ending at The Lodge at Mount Magazine. Check current park trail information before hiking because conditions and access can change.

Does Mount Magazine State Park have hiking trails?

Yes. Trails include Signal Hill, North Rim, Mossback Ridge, Greenfield, Benefield routes, Will Apple's Road and the Cove Lake Trail connection.

What is the North Rim Trail like?

North Rim Trail follows the northern edge of Mount Magazine through forest, cedar glades and bluff country. It connects with other trails and provides access to scenic areas along the mountain rim.

What is Cameron Bluff?

Cameron Bluff is a scenic area on Mount Magazine overlooking the surrounding valleys and mountain landscape. The area is accessible from park roads and nearby trails.

Does Mount Magazine State Park have camping?

Yes. The park offers developed camping at Cameron Bluff Campground, tent-only camping at Brown Springs and camping facilities associated with the horse camp.

Does Mount Magazine State Park have cabins?

Yes. Mount Magazine State Park offers cabin accommodations, providing an alternative to traditional camping.

Can you stay at The Lodge at Mount Magazine?

Yes. The Lodge at Mount Magazine provides overnight accommodations on the mountain and includes guest rooms, dining and other facilities. Visitors should check current Arkansas State Parks information for availability and rates.

Does Mount Magazine have a restaurant?

The Lodge at Mount Magazine includes the Skycrest Restaurant. Visitors should check current operating hours and dining availability before planning a meal there.

Can you swim at Mount Magazine State Park?

An indoor swimming pool is available for lodge and cabin guests. Other swimming opportunities are available at nearby lakes, subject to current conditions and regulations.

Can you fish at Mount Magazine State Park?

Fishing opportunities are available in the area, although the park's rock quarry is a limited fishing location and visitors may choose to travel to nearby lakes such as Cove Lake or Blue Mountain Lake. Check current Arkansas fishing regulations and local conditions before fishing.

Can you go horseback riding at Mount Magazine?

Yes. Horseback riding is available on designated equestrian trails, including the Huckleberry Mountain Horse Trail. Riders should check current park and Forest Service information before traveling.

Can you mountain bike at Mount Magazine State Park?

Yes. Mountain biking is permitted on designated routes, including Will Apple's Road Trail and the Huckleberry Mountain Horse Trail. Visitors should follow current trail rules and designations.

Can you rock climb at Mount Magazine?

Rock climbing is permitted in designated areas of Mount Magazine State Park. Visitors should check with the visitor center for current access information and restrictions.

Can you go hang gliding at Mount Magazine?

Hang gliding is permitted at Mount Magazine subject to park restrictions and current requirements. Visitors interested in the activity should check with park staff before participating.

Is Mount Magazine State Park good for families?

The park offers a variety of activities for family outings, including scenic overlooks, shorter hikes, wildlife observation, camping, lodge and cabin stays and historic features.

Is Mount Magazine State Park good for a weekend trip?

Yes. A weekend provides enough time to hike Signal Hill, visit Cameron Bluff, explore additional trails, enjoy the mountain scenery and stay overnight at the campground, cabins or lodge.

What is Mount Magazine known for?

Mount Magazine is known for being the highest mountain in Arkansas, its 2,753-foot Signal Hill high point, scenic bluffs, forests, hiking trails, wildlife, camping and mountain recreation.

What should I bring to Mount Magazine State Park?

Visitors should consider bringing drinking water, sun protection, appropriate hiking footwear, food for a day trip, insect protection and supplies suited to the planned activity. Overnight visitors should bring camping or lodging supplies as appropriate.

Are there scenic overlooks at Mount Magazine State Park?

Yes. Cameron Bluff and other areas along the mountain rim provide scenic views across the Arkansas River Valley and surrounding mountain landscapes.

What is the best time to visit Mount Magazine State Park?

Spring and fall can provide comfortable hiking conditions, while summer offers opportunities for camping and mountain recreation. Fall can also bring changing foliage. Mountain weather varies, so check the forecast before traveling.

Can Mount Magazine State Park be busy?

Yes. Weekends, holidays and popular fall travel periods can be busy. Visitors planning overnight stays should consider reserving campsites, cabins or lodge accommodations in advance.

Does Mount Magazine have historic sites?

Yes. Mount Magazine contains historic home sites, old roads, stone walls and other features associated with earlier settlement and recreation on the mountain.

How far is Mount Magazine State Park from Paris, Arkansas?

The park is approximately 16 miles south of Paris along Scenic Highway 309. Exact travel time depends on the starting point and road conditions.

Is Mount Magazine State Park worth visiting for hiking?

Mount Magazine offers a variety of hiking experiences, including the Signal Hill high point, forested ridge trails, scenic bluffs, historic routes and connections into the surrounding national forest. Visitors can choose shorter walks or longer hikes depending on their available time and experience.