The St. Francis River Trail in St. Francis National Forest follows the river for which the forest is named through bottomland hardwood forest in Lee County, Arkansas. The four-mile round trip is flat and easy, offering riverside scenery and wildlife in the Delta landscape.
The St. Francis River drains a large portion of northeastern Arkansas before joining the Mississippi, and its lower corridor provides classic Delta riparian habitat. The bottomland forest here is a reminder of what covered millions of acres of the Mississippi floodplain before agricultural conversion.
The Route
The trail follows the river downstream from the AR-284 trailhead through mature bottomland forest of water oak, sweetgum, and cottonwood. The river is visible and accessible at several points. Backwater sloughs adjacent to the main channel provide additional wildlife habitat. The turnaround at two miles is at a river bend with open views upstream and downstream.
Return on the same trail.
What to Expect
Winter and early spring are the most productive seasons for wildlife. The bare deciduous canopy allows far better views of birds and other animals than the summer green cover. The river itself is attractive year-round, but December through March is the optimal window.
The river level can be high in winter and early spring from upstream rainfall. Wet-footed sections are possible; waterproof footwear or hiking boots are practical.
Nearby
Marianna, Arkansas, is about 20 miles south and east on AR-49 with services. The two St. Francis National Forest lakes (Storm Creek and Bear Creek) are accessible within the same day for a more complete exploration of this small forest.
Leave No Trace
This trail receives enough use that following Leave No Trace principles is important for preserving the experience for future visitors. Stay on the marked trail to prevent erosion. Pack out all waste. Avoid camping within 200 feet of water sources or the trail. Use existing fire rings only where campfires are permitted, and check current fire restrictions at checking conditions before you go before any visit. The trail and surrounding terrain remain in good condition because previous visitors have respected these norms.
Safety Considerations
The easy rating reflects the trail's general character under typical conditions. Weather, seasonal snow, and trail conditions can change the experience significantly. Carry the 10 Essentials on any full-day outing. Inform someone of your plans and expected return time before heading out, particularly on longer or more remote trails. Cell service varies throughout St. Francis National Forest and may be unreliable in canyon bottoms or remote terrain.