Devil's Den State Park
Region Leader: Jim Center 
479-305-1773

Nestled in the scenic Boston Mountains of the Ozark National Forest, Devil’s Den State Park is one of Arkansas’s most iconic and beloved outdoor destinations.

Established in 1933 during the Great Depression, the park was one of the earliest built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). Much of its original stonework, trails, and structures—crafted by hand from native stone and timber—still stand today, preserving a sense of rustic heritage.

Spanning over 2,500 acres, the park features:
 • Miles of multi-use trails for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking
 • Historic CCC-built cabins and facilities
 • Rugged caves, bluffs, and creeks
 • A rich diversity of Ozark flora and fauna
 • Access to the Butterfield Hiking and Equestrian Trail, a long-distance loop through remote terrain

Devil’s Den is not just a park—it’s a gateway into Arkansas’ backcountry and a stronghold of outdoor tradition.

Back Country Horsemen of Northwest Arkansas (BCHNWA) has been a vital partner in the stewardship, maintenance, and promotion of equestrian access at Devil’s Den State Park for many years. Some of our major contributions include:
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Trail Maintenance & Clearing
BCHNWA volunteers regularly perform hands-on work along the Butterfield Trail and other equestrian routes—clearing storm debris, downed trees, and overgrowth to keep trails safe and passable.

Certified Sawyer Support
BCHNWA includes certified USFS sawyers, trained to safely remove large fallen trees and deadfall in accordance with federal standards. Their expertise ensures that even the toughest trail blockages can be cleared safely and effectively, especially in remote or rugged areas.

Erosion Control & Sustainability
In cooperation with Arkansas State Parks staff, BCHNWA members have implemented water diversion features, reinforced trail surfaces, and promoted low-impact riding practices to protect fragile terrain and waterways.

Horse Camp Renovation Support
In 2024–2025, BCHNWA supported the grand reopening of the newly remodeled Horse Camp, contributing materials like a wheelbarrow for manure disposal and advocating for horse-friendly design improvements. The group was present at the grand opening alongside state park leadership and partners.

Trail Safety & Education
As part of the Arkansas Trail Safety & Education Campaign, BCHNWA has distributed signage and shared best practices for shared trail use—emphasizing respect among hikers, bikers, and equestrians.

Public Outreach & Events
Members participate in park events, guided rides, and educational efforts that promote public land stewardship and equestrian trail etiquette.

Looking Forward
BCHNWA continues to work closely with Devil’s Den State Park staff to ensure trails remain open, safe, and accessible for equestrians and other trail users. Their presence is a reminder that volunteer-driven conservation is alive and well in Arkansas.

Respect The Ride 
🐝 Bee kind by cleaning up all equine droppings from parking areas, camp areas and shared spaces. BCHNWA donates a wheel barrow to the horse camp to assist equestrians.

Together, Devil’s Den and BCHNWA represent a powerful alliance between tradition and stewardship, where heritage meets hands-on action.
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Horse Camp Reservations: 479-761-3325
​reserve.arkansasstateparks.com/devils-den/camping​