Recent activity at Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism
Meetings, budgets, and plans from this organization.
Mar 12, 2026·Board meeting
State Parks, Recreation And Travel Commission Meeting Minutes
The commission meeting included reports from the Secretary on various state park initiatives, project updates, and website launches. Financial reports and FY 2026 travel reimbursement rates were approved. The State Parks Division presented several items, including authorizations for the creation of Blanchard Springs State Park, a cooperative operating agreement with the USDA FS, the establishment of a new wildlife management area, and multiple concession lease agreements for various parks. Additionally, a wide range of consent agenda items regarding grant applications, donations, and lease agreements were approved. The Tourism Division provided updates on marketing performance, the Great American State Fair strategy, and economic data trends, while the Office of Outdoor Recreation discussed the Natural State Initiative and outdoor recreation growth.
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State Parks, Recreation and Travel Commission Meeting Minutes
The Commission addressed various departmental reports and agenda items. The Secretary's report highlighted recent events including the Simmons Bank Championship, conference hosting, trail developments, and restoration projects. The Financial report for the period ending October 31, 2025, showed increases in revenue and operating expenditures. The State Parks Division secured approvals for the Hansell property acquisition at Mount Nebo, a lease agreement with the City of Little Rock for War Memorial Stadium, a lease renewal for the Petit Jean Museum of Automobiles, and rate approvals for 2026. Furthermore, the commission approved the FY27 Capital Improvement Program project list, the Petit Jean Trails Plan, and an agreement renewal with the Arkansas Broadcaster's Association. The Tourism Division provided updates on media recognition, cycling initiatives, and a marketing campaign launch. Finally, the board approved the calendar year 2026 meeting dates and the appointment of the next Vice Chair.
Oct 16, 2025·Board meeting
State Parks, Recreation and Travel Commission Meeting Minutes
The meeting included reports from the Secretary on various initiatives such as the Natural State Initiative, Arkansas 250, and facility visits. An organizational overview was provided regarding commissioner responsibilities, with plans for an ad hoc committee to offer recommendations. The financial report for the first quarter of FY 2026 was approved. The State Parks Division provided reports on occupancy and financials, and approvals were granted for various leases, permits, and agreements, including the Mena Trails Bike Park operator, utility easements, and hunting club use permits. Additionally, draft plans for state park rates and trail improvements were reviewed, along with updates on capital improvement projects. The Tourism Division provided updates on marketing campaigns, new staff, and upcoming event planning.
Sep 18, 2025·Board meeting
State Parks, Recreation and Travel Commission Meeting
The Commission received reports from the Secretary on various tourism and parks initiatives, including conferences and upcoming events. The Financial Report for the period ending August 31, 2025, was presented and approved. The Tourism Division provided updates on staff training, a new research dashboard, website redesign progress, and fall marketing campaigns. The State Parks Division provided updates on emergency services, law enforcement, financial performance, and trail project development. The Commission also approved several action items, including the renaming of a visitor center at Hobbs State Park, a lease agreement for Ward Lake, a use permit for an elevated water tank at Lake Chicot, the removal of a structure at Lake Chicot, and a permit for a new multi-use trail at Petit Jean State Park.
