Arkansas State Parks invites members of the media and the public to celebrate the completion of major improvements at Lake Chicot State Park during a special open house on Thursday, Aug. 6. Guests will have the opportunity to tour the renovated campground and upgraded visitor facilities, explore new recreational amenities, meet park staff and learn about the investments enhancing one of Arkansas' premier outdoor destinations.
WHAT
Lake Chicot State Park Community Open House
WHEN
Thursday, Aug. 6, 2026 Time: 10 a.m.
WHERE
Lake Chicot State Park
2542 Highway 257
Lake Village, AR 71653
WHO
- Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism leadership
- Arkansas State Parks leadership and staff
- Local and state elected officials
- Community leaders and partners
- Members of the media
- General public
"Our state parks are where Arkansas' stories are made—from family camping trips and fishing adventures to lifelong traditions passed from one generation to the next," said Shea Lewis, Secretary of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism. "These improvements at Lake Chicot State Park reflect our commitment to investing in places that connect people to nature while ensuring visitors enjoy safe, accessible and memorable experiences for years to come. We look forward to welcoming the community to celebrate these exciting enhancements and discover all that's new at one of Arkansas' most treasured state parks."
Event Highlights
Visitors will have the opportunity to tour and learn more about recently completed park improvements, including:
- Campground Renovation (Completed June 2026)
- 42 renovated RV campsites
- Five new walk-in campsites
- Improved grading and drainage throughout the campground
- New walking path connecting the campground to additional park facilities
- Newly paved roadways
- Completion of the new paved Delta Woodlands Trail
- Renovated RV dump station
- New bathhouse
Enhanced Visitor Amenities
- Refurbished playground featuring new playground equipment
- New walking trail providing improved access to the playground
- New ADA-compliant railing installed on the accessible boat dock
Additional Park Improvements
- New siding and exterior paint on park cabins
- Marina improvements, including new siding, windows, paint and gutters
- Repairs to cabin fireplaces
- New HVAC system installed in the original campground bathhouse
- New fish cleaning station
Photo & Interview Opportunities
- Tours of the renovated campground
- New playground and recreational amenities
- Woodland Trail and pedestrian bridges
- Upgraded bathhouse and campground facilities
- Park leadership available for interviews
- Community members enjoying the new amenities
Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism: The Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism protects and promotes our state's natural, cultural and historic assets, contributing to a thriving economy and high quality of life. It is made up of three divisions: Arkansas State Parks, Arkansas Heritage and Arkansas Tourism.