Cossatot River State Park Natural Area (CRSPNA)

The park, managed jointly by Arkansas State Parks and the Arkansas Natural Heritage Commission, includes 11 miles of one of the most rugged and spectacular river corridors in the central United States. It encompasses over 5,200 acres of rugged wooded slopes, outstanding geological features, and cascading clear water. Not only is the water quality high, but the stream features Class III, IV and even Class V rapids, making it a favorite with skilled canoeists, rafters and kayakers.

The primary mission of CRSPNA is to maintain the exceptional natural and scenic quality of the Cossatot River corridor and provide environmental education opportunities. Little-disturbed cedar glades and old-growth forests cover many of the steeper slopes. Two species of fish found only in the southern Ouachitas, the leopard darter and the Ouachita Mountain shiner, live in the river, as do several rare mussels. Bald eagles winter in the area. Waterfall's sedge and Ouachita Mountain twistflower, found only in a few counties in the Ouachita Mountains, and a number of other sensitive plant species thrive within the park's five natural plant communities. The combination of natural vegetation, rugged topography, exposed rock, and sparkling water creates a scenic extravaganza.

Location
The park extends from the Ouachita National Forest, near the Highway 246 bridge on the north, to the Corps of Engineer property on Gillham Lake, south of Highway 4. At present the area is most accessible at the two highway bridges and at Cossatot Falls. Good views and river access are available at both highway bridges and via a network of roads (see map), two of which cross the river. The CRSPNA may be reached by traveling Highway 4 west from Umpire about 9 miles, or east from Highway 71 at Wickes for approximately the same distance. Highway 246 passes through the northern portion of the park-natural area between Athens and Vandervoort. Both highways are paved. Weyerhaeuser roads #52200, #52000 and a portion of road #52600 are designated routes to the interior of the property. These roads are also used for forest management including timber hauling. Use caution when traveling these roads.

Special Regulations
Cossatot means "skull crusher." The river can be dangerous! Review water levels, know your ability, and use care and common sense. Floater brochure available. Floating the Cossatot is not recommended for the inexperienced or the ill-equipped. Heed these regulations for your safety and so others may enjoy this special area after you.

NOTE: Floating is generally limited to winter and spring.

Life vests are mandatory for paddlers and other floaters. Helmets are highly recommended. Pack out what you pack in. Each visitor is responsible for his own refuse. Littering is strictly prohibited. Glass containers are not allowed on or along the river. It is unlawful to collect, deface, or destroy any plants, wildlife, or public property. The park is a wildlife sanctuary, hunting is prohibited. Parking on bridges is prohibited. Bridges and roads are used for forest management including timber hauling. Licensed ATVs may be used on roads only. No off-road travel. WARNING: Never attempt to drive across a low water bridge during periods of high water. Please follow all safety suggestions posted within the Cossatot River State Park Natural Area.

Facilities

On-Site Facilities - The Cossatot River State Park-Natural Area is a primitive area. Rest rooms and other facilities are available only at the Brushy Creek Access Area. The Brushy Creek Access Area, at the junction of Hwy 246, Brushy Creek, and the Cossatot River, includes 10 picnic sites with tables and grills; Brushy Creek Nature Trail; a river access point for floating; two barrier-free, solar-powered restrooms; and 40 parking spaces on an asphalt roadway. In addition, a pedestrian walkway crosses the Cossatot, the west side of which is barrier-free. No camping is available.

Nearby Facilities - South of the area are US Army Corps of Engineers recreation areas on Gillham Lake. To the north are US Forest Service campgrounds at Shady Lake, Bard Springs, and Albert Pike recreation areas. Daisy State Park to the east provides camping on Lake Greeson, and Queen Wilhelmina State Park near Mena offers both camping and a modern lodge on the second highest peak in the state.

River Information

FLOATERS NOTE: The Cossatot is not for beginners!!

Acknowledgments
Purchase of the 10.4 miles of the Cossatot River corridor was made possible by a grant from the Arkansas Natural and Cultural Resources Council. The Arkansas Nature Conservancy and Weyerhaeuser Company played key roles in the acquisition of the area. Arkla, Inc. has donated 160 acres at the confluence of Brushy Creek and the Cossatot River, and in 1991, funded the development of the Brushy Creek Access Area.

The Cossatot River and the Natural Area surrounding it have been recognized nationally, and in 1992 Congress designated it a National Wild and Scenic River.

For further information on park hours or programs, contact:

Cossatot River State Park Natural Area
960 Hwy 4 East H.C.
Wickes, AR 71937
Telephone: (501) 385-2201

For further information on Arkansas' other fine state parks and natural areas contact:

Arkansas State Parks
One Capitol Mall, 4A-900
Little Rock, AR 72201
Telephone: (501) 682-1191

Natural Heritage Commission
1500 Tower Bldg.
323 Center St.
Little Rock, AR 72201
Telephone: (501) 324-9150

All park services are provided on a nondiscriminatory basis. Arkansas State Parks is an Equal Opportunity Employer.