Press Releases

Arkansas State Parks invites everyone to celebrate Memorial Day Weekend with a host of exciting events across our beautiful state parks. From canoe floats to lively music festivals, there's something for everyone to enjoy. 

David DeCook, a regular visitor to Arkansas’ Crater of Diamonds State Park from Stewartville, MN, recently spotted a glimmering 3.81-carat brown diamond while visiting the park with his family. It is the largest diamond registered so far this year.  

Arkansas State Parks (ASP) and the Arkansas Archeological Survey (ARAS) have announced the designation of three Arkansas State Parks as Arkansas State Archeological Landmarks. This historic designation, authorized under Arkansas Code § 13-6-306 (2020), provides official recognition and enhanced protection for sites of significance to the scientific study and public representation of Arkansas’ aboriginal past.

Daisy State Park welcomed guests, local officials and community members Friday for a special ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the grand opening of its new Visitor Center and playground. This milestone marks an important step in the park’s ongoing efforts to enhance visitor experiences and expand outdoor recreation opportunities.

Arkansas State Parks invited members of the media to an exclusive Media Field Trip on Thursday, March 13, 2025, at 10 a.m., at Pinnacle Mountain State Park to experience the transformative impact of the Trackchair initiative.

This event offered a hands-on opportunity to see the Trackchair in action, meet users who benefit from this technology, and heard their personal stories about the importance of accessibility in outdoor recreation.

Arkansas State Parks hosted the 2025 Arkansas State Parks Top Chef competition, an exciting culinary showdown that took place on March 4. This annual event brought together talented teams from across the state park system to showcase their creativity, teamwork and culinary expertise in a friendly yet fierce competition.