Moro Bay State Park, nestled in the pines of Bradley, Calhoun and Union Counties, is a picture of quiet tranquility. Natalie Canard, FireWise Information Officer, visited the park on Aug. 6, 2008, to conduct a fire assessment on the park. The park was at moderate risk due to the construction of the buildings, pine needle litter, and some mitigation concerns. Mark Myers, park superintendent, said the park works hard to keep needles away from roofs and other potential problem areas. Control burns are conducted ever few years to help reduce fuel build-up. Myers promised the park would be quick to fix the few mitigation concerns that included relocating a grill along the river and adding some defensible space around a restroom area and cutting back overhanging limbs over the building. The campgrounds are well-maintained by staff and visitors alike. Overall, the park is a quaint hideaway with several opportunites to relax with a rod and reel.

 

Five fully-equipped cabins featuring two bedrooms and kitchens each are under construction and are scheduled to open in April 2009. The two-bedroom, Myers says they will be built of concrete and still, but he still has to landscape and firewise the area. Covered hardyboard, not wood, the cabins will be raised to accomodate the fluxuating water levels.

 

 

 

 

For photos of the park and buildings please click here.

 

 

 

 

 

 

According to Arkansas State Park literature, one of the most popular fishing and water sport areas in south central Arkansas can be found where Moro Bay and Raymond Lake join the Ouachita River at Moro Bay State Park. Park facilities include 20 campsites, five Class A and 15 Class B; picnic sites; a store; marina with boat rentals and gas pump; standard pavilion, screened-in; playground; trails; and the Moro Bay Ferry exhibit featuring a historic tugboat and barge.

The park is located 29 miles southwest of Warren on U.S. 63; or 23 miles northeast of El Dorado on U.S. 63.