Programs, Events, and Activities

There doesn’t have to be a scheduled “event” to enjoy Hobbs State Park - Conservation Area—that’s the beauty of it!

Experience nature's wonder during a hike. Learn about the mission of our park through the interactive exhibit gallery at the new visitor center. Discover the history of Van Winkle Hollow. Take some photographs or record observations in a nature journal to increase your awareness. Join Park Interpreters for weekly programs, special events, tours, demonstrations, and activites. The park is yours to enjoy year round!

Use the drop down menu above to explore weekly schedules, and series information.

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Save the Date:

March 2010 - August 2010: Beaver Lake Discovery Cruise and Sunset Cruises at Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area!

A park interpreter or talented docent will lead this scenic guided tour around beautiful Beaver Lake aboard our new 28 foot commercial pontoon vessel. Explore the Geology of the Ozarks on Beaver Lake along with the amazing views and abundant wildlife (possibly even a great Bald Eagle). Space is limited. Call the visitor center for reservations and pre-payment. Admission: $10 adults, $5 children (6-12) under 6 free

Cruises depart from Rocky Branch Marina. Pre-registration is required. Buy your tickets at the visitor center or call 479-789-5000. See complete schedule under weekly program schedules for more information.

August 7

Dutch Oven Workshop                 10 am                4 hours                     Visitor Center

Even wondered how those people cook in a Dutch Oven? After this four hour workshop people will be asking you how to cook in a Dutch Oven. We will learn the basics of food prep and cooking in our state cooking vessel. After we cook and enjoy our three-course meal all the secrets of this great past time will be revealed to you.

Cost: $30 includes workshop, lunch & a Dutch Oven 101 cookbook OR $90 includes workshop, lunch, a Lodge 6 qt. Dutch Oven and a Dutch Oven 101 cookbook. Workshop limited to first 15.

Registration and pre-payment required. Call 479-789-5000 for more information and to register.

August 1

Intro to Kayaking            9 am                6 hours                 Visitor Center

Have you ever wanted to learn to kayak? Here’s your chance to learn from a kayak instructor for the American Canoe Association (ACA). We will learn all aspects of paddling as we explore a calm area of Beaver Lake. Recreational kayaks, paddles and lifejackets will be provided. Space is limited, open to 16 years and older. Bring a sack lunch, sunscreen and dress for the weather. Cost $50 per person

Registration and pre-payment required. Call 479-789-5000 for more information and to register.

August 12 and 13

Astronomy Lake Cruise       6:30 pm               4.5 hours               Visitor Center

Join Dixie Andros of Northwest Arkansas Community College as you celebrate Galileo’s invention of the telescope. Assemble your own personal Galileo telescope then join Dixie and the Hobbs staff aboard our 28’ pontoon boat at Rocky branch Marina as we cruise to a special location on Beaver Lake and use your new telescope to view the night sky.

Cost: $50 per telescope and cruise ticket, $10 for additional boat seats, children under 6 free

Registration and pre-payment required. Call 479-789-5000 for more information and to register.

August 14

Astronomy Class

Join Dixie Andros of Northwest Arkansas Community College as you celebrate Galileo's invention of the telescope. Assemble your own personal Galileo telescope then join the Sugar Creek Astronomy Club for a class on using your telescope. Afterwards head outside for a night viewing in our parking lot. Bring lawn chairs and a flashlight covered with a red balloon or cloth.

Cost: $35 includes Galileo Scope, instruction and night viewing.

Registration and pre-payment required. Call 479-789-5000 for more information and to register.

Schedule a Program or Tour

Come expolore the Park's rich cultural history, geology, and plant and animal life by scheduling a guided tour. Please contact Steve Chyrchel at 479-789-5006, steve.chyrchel@arkansas.gov to schedule a tour or program. Or, join us in our scheduled trail tours at Shaddox Hollow Nature Trail and the Historic Van Winkle Trail on the first and third weekends of each month, April through October.

Volunteers Needed

See the Get Involved! page for new projects and the updated Adopt-A-Trail teams. Volunteers are needed to help build and maintain our network of trails and conduct many other park projects.