5752 State Park Lane
Harrisburg, Arkansas
870-578-2064

Situated among the scenic rolling hills atop Crowley’s Ridge in northeastern Arkansas is Lake Poinsett. This 640-acre lake was constructed in 1960 by the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission to provide fishing recreation. Lake Poinsett State Park was established on the northern end of the lake in 1963. Both the park acreage and facilities have expanded over the decades. Fishing enthusiasts find the shallow waters of Lake Poinsett excellent for catching a large stringer of bass, crappie, bream, or catfish. The park offers twenty-nine campsites, two picnic areas, a nature/hiking trail, a playground, a pavilion, and boat/kayak rentals. Interpretative programs are available throughout the year, including guided-kayak tours and annual special events.

Lake Poinsett’s location makes it an ideal base for exploring the beauty and history of Crowley’s Ridge. The area is colorful all year round ranging from the brilliant reds of maple trees in fall to the bright colors of wildflowers and dogwood blossoms in spring. The beautiful, shaded camping area overlooking the lake is open year-round. Twenty-six campsites are equipped with dual-voltage electrical hookups and there is plenty of room for those who wish to pitch a tent. A bathhouse (open during warm months) is available to all campers. Rental fishing boats (no motors) and kayaks are available at the park near the boat launch ramp. Camping and fishing supplies can be obtained at stores near the park. The park’s boat launch ramp (near the picnic area) may be used free by all park visitors. Scattered around the park are spacious picnic sites with tables and grills. A playground is between the campground and picnic areas. For family get-togethers or group gatherings, a pavilion may be reserved for a modest fee.

The park features the Great Blue Heron Trail. This trail consists of an easy 1.1 mile loop with a 1/8 mile spur that leads to a beautiful view of the lake. The trail starts near the playground area and winds along one of Lake Poinsett’s many shaded coves. It then moves up into a wooded area where you can catch views of White-tailed Deer, Red Fox, Grey Squirrel, or Wood Ducks. This trail is great for birding as you walk through different habitats suitable for songbirds and waterfowl. Activities offered by park interpreters include trail walks, guided kayak and canoe tours, birding and watchable wildlife excursions, Dutch oven cooking workshops, fishing derbies, and more.

Camping
Lake Poinsett State Park is situated on the northern end of this Arkansas Game and Fish Commission lake and offers 29 campsites (four Class A, 22 Class B and three Class D), picnic areas, a standard pavilion (screened with restrooms), boat launch ramp, and boat rentals. A children's playground is located between the picnic area and campground. For hiking enthusiasts, the 1.1-mile Great Blue Heron Trail can be enjoyed in a leisurely 45-minute hike. Visit Lake Poinsett State Park’s website for more information.

Visiting Lake Frierson State Park
Lake Frierson State Park is open daily dawn to dusk
Visitor Center hours: 8 am - 5 pm
There is no charge to visit Lake Frierson State Park.