Hobbs State Park–Conservation Area is the largest state park in Arkansas — more than 12,000 acres of Ozark forest on the south shore of Beaver Lake, just east of Rogers. With about 54 miles of multi-use trails, a striking LEED-certified visitor center, and miles of shoreline, it’s one of the region’s best spots for hiking, mountain biking, and getting into nature.
About Hobbs State Park
Hobbs protects a huge, largely wild stretch of the Ozark Plateau along Beaver Lake. It’s a day-use conservation area (no developed campground), designed for exploring on foot, by bike, or on horseback. The visitor center — the first LEED-certified building in the Arkansas State Parks system — has excellent interactive exhibits on the area’s natural and cultural history and is a great place to start.
Trails & Recreation
- ~54 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, from short interpretive loops to long backcountry routes.
- Hidden Diversity Multi-Use Trail — the park’s long-distance signature trail.
- Pigeon Roost & Van Winkle Hollow trails — popular routes, including a short, family-friendly historic loop near the visitor center.
- Two ADA-accessible trails for easier access.
- Shooting range and seasonal ranger-led programs.
- Beaver Lake access for fishing and paddling.
Good to Know
- Admission: Free day use.
- Visitor center: Open regular daytime hours; a great first stop for maps and exhibits.
- Camping: No developed campground — it’s primarily a day-use area (a few primitive backcountry sites exist for backpackers).
- Location: About 20–25 minutes east of Rogers on Hwy 12, on the way toward War Eagle and Beaver Lake.
- Note: Seasonal managed hunts occur — check regulations before visiting in fall.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hobbs State Park free?
Yes — it’s a free day-use park.
Can you mountain bike at Hobbs?
Yes. Mountain biking is allowed on much of the ~54-mile multi-use trail system, including the long Hidden Diversity Multi-Use Trail.
Is there camping at Hobbs State Park?
There’s no developed campground — Hobbs is primarily a day-use conservation area, though a few primitive backcountry sites exist for backpackers.
What’s a good easy trail at Hobbs?
The short interpretive loops near the visitor center (including a historic Van Winkle Hollow trail) are family-friendly, with ADA-accessible options available.
Location & Directions
- Visitor center: 20201 E Hwy 12, Rogers, AR 72756
- Phone: (479) 789-5000
- Admission: Free day use
- Official site: Arkansas State Parks
Back to Parks & Recreation in Rogers or Things to Do in Rogers.