Jacksonport State Park is Open for Business!

Arkansas and the enormous amounts of rain it has received in the last month or so had made news all over the country.  Contrary to what public perception might be from those reports, the state is not under water. Attractions around the state, such as Jacksonport State Park at Newport, are open and welcoming visitors.

Below is a schedule of some events taking place this weekend.  Find an event or events that interest you and make plans to come be a part of it.  We’re waiting for you!

Saturday, May 10th

3:00 p.m. - Raymond Guthrie: Deckhand of the Mary Woods No. 2- Mary Woods No. 2- Have you ever wondered what life was like on a 20th century riverboat?  If so, meet a park interpreter on our restored boat to discover the ups and downs of life on the White River from the depression to the 1960’s.  Costs are $3.25 per adult and $1.75 for children ages 6-12.  Register at the visitor center.  Note: Program location is tentative due to park flooding.  Please call park to verify.

6:30 p.m. - Woodpecker Slide Show- Campground- See an intriguing slide show of these unique insect-eating birds.  Discover the adaptations that woodpeckers have that help them to drill holes in trees in search of insects.  Find out how to prevent woodpeckers from drilling into the side of your house.  You will even discover ways to attract these beautiful animals to your backyard.  Note: Program location is tentative due to park flooding.  Please contact park to verify.

Sunday, May 11th

1:00 p.m. - Butterfly Magnets- Picnic Area- Butterflies are beautiful, special creatures that have several unique behaviors that you have probably seen, but not recognized.  Learn about butterfly behaviors such as basking, patrolling, puddling and nectaring before making a butterfly magnet to take home with you. Note: Program location is tentative due to park flooding.  Please contact park to verify.

3:00 p.m. - Build a Beaver Dam- Picnic Area- Did you ever wonder why beavers are such good swimmers in water and are so awkward on land?  What do beavers eat?  Where do they live?  Can you see a beaver at Jacksonport State Park?  If you are interested, meet a park interpreter to understand these magnificent creatures and even build your own beaver dam.  Note: Program location is tentative due to park flooding.  Please contact park to verify.