Anglers will find the relatively shallow waters of 640-acre Lake Poinsett, nestled atop the rolling hills of Crowley's Ridge in northeast Arkansas, a special getaway for crappie, catfish, bream, and bass fishing. Situated on the northern end of this Arkansas Game and Fish Commission lake, the state park offers 29 campsites (four Class A, 22 Class B and three Class D), picnic areas, a standard pavilion (screened with restrooms), boat launch ramp, and boat rentals. Near the picnic area is ample room for impromptu softball games. A children's playground is located between the picnic area and campground. For hiking enthusiasts, the 1.1-mile Great Blue Heron Trail can be enjoyed in a leisurely 45-minute hike.
Activities offered by park interpreters include trail walks, guided kayak and canoe tours, birding and watchable wildlife excursions, Dutch oven cooking workshops, fishing derbies, and more.
To reach Lake Poinsett State Park from Harrisburg, travel one mile east on Ark. 14, then go three miles south on Ark. 163 to the park.
Camping- The beautiful, shaded camping area overlooking the lake is open year-round. Twenty-six campsites are equipped with dual-voltage electrical hookups and freeze-proof water connections, plus a table and grill. Plenty of room is available nearby for those who wish to pitch a tent. A bathhouse (open during warm months) is available to all campers. A dump station is near the park entrance.
Picnicking- Scattered around the park are spacious picnic sites with tables and grills. Though the picnic sites are shaded by towering trees, there is ample open space in the area which can be used for impromptu softball games. A playground is between the campground and picnic areas. For family get-togethers or group gatherings, a pavilion may be reserved for a modest fee.
Other Facilities- Rental fishing boats (no motors) and kayaks are available at the park near the boat launch ramp. Camping and fishing supplies can be obtained at stores near the park. A public swimming pool plus complete shopping; laundry facilities, restaurants, and hospitals are just 3 miles away in Harrisburg. The park’s boat launch ramp (near the picnic area) may be used free by all park visitors.
