2011 Tourism and Newcomers Guide to the Arkansas River Valley
Park interpreters host environmental education programs throughout the year in the center’s state-of-the-art classroom with digital projectors and surround sound. In 2010, 20,000 local kids gained course credit at their schools through the programs. “We have some great educators out here, and we have a great partnership with our River Valley schools,” Thomas said. “We’re an extension of their classrooms. They can come out here and study micro-invertebrates or anything.” The classroom, which opens up to a balcony that overlooks Lake Dardanelle, has also become a hot spot for weddings. The facility sits on the shore of Lake Dardanelle, providing breathtaking views of the lake and something for every
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visitor to enjoy. The park also provides pavilions, launch ramps, a marina, bicycle and kayak rentals and a hiking trail, and has provided more and more people with a safe, economical vacation spot. “People are staying closer to home, with the gas prices the way that they are,” Thomas said. “They’re not going to Disney World or Gulf Shores. I think they’ve been to the casinos — been there, done that. They’re looking for a quality vacation that’s economical.” The park has changed a great deal during the last few years. What began as mainly a camping destination has blossomed into a premier site for environmental education, conservation and community pride.