Home » Arkansas » How To Explore Moro Bay State Park: Your Ultimate Adventure Guide

Looking for a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature? Moro Bay State Park in Arkansas might just be the perfect destination. On our most recent road trip to Hot Springs National Park, we discovered Moro Bay State Park. Nestled deep in the scenic woodlands of southern Arkansas lies Moro Bay State Park-a treasure for the nature lover, family person, and historian. With serene bayou waters, tall pines, and lots of wildlife, the possibilities for adventure or just unwinding are limitless. This guidebook will come in handy when planning a day or weekend outing with all the essential information on what not to miss and how not to miss it.

A large grassy field with trees and a person walking a dog on a path at sunset.

Why this Park Should Be Your Next Adventure

There is just something magical about hitting the open road to see beautiful destinations like Moro Bay State Park. From paddling through the Ouachita River backwaters to roasting marshmallows at our site, Moro Bay State Park mixes outdoor thrill with Southern charm. One highlight that truly captivated us was the remarkable ferry interpretive exhibit. This gem in Arkansas guarantees lasting memories. Let’s dive into our adventure and explore why Moro Bay deserves a spot on your must-visit list!

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Sign for Moro Bay State Park with a painted nature scene, surrounded by trees.

Directions to Moro Bay State Park

Moro Bay State Park is 20-miles northeast of El Dorado, Arkansas, about an hour southwest of Hot Springs National Park. While navigating the rural backroads from Poverty Point World Heritage Park, we sometimes felt a bit lost. Fortunately, a quick look at our roadmap helped us find our way, and we could follow the signs to the park without trouble.

  • From Little Rock, AR: Distance: ~120 miles (2 hours). Take I-530 South toward Pine Bluff. Merge onto US-63 South at Pine Bluff and continue for ~65 miles. Turn left onto AR-160 East and follow the signs to Moro Bay State Park. The park entrance is at 6071 Highway 600, Jersey, AR 71651.
  • From Monroe, LA Distance: ~110 miles (2 hours). Take US-165 North toward Bastrop, LA. Cross into Arkansas and merge onto AR-133 North. Turn left onto AR-160 West and follow to Highway 600.
  • From Hot Springs, AR Distance: ~145 miles (2 hours 30 minutes). Take US-70 East toward Malvern. Merge onto US-167 South toward Fordyce/El Dorado. Turn left onto AR-160 East and follow signs to the park.
  • From Texarkana, AR/TX Distance: ~90 miles (1 hour 30 minutes) Take US-71 South toward Ashdown. Turn left onto AR-32 East and follow to AR-160. Turn right onto AR-160 East, then left onto Highway 600 to the park.
A calm Ouachita River at Moro Bay reflecting the early morning or late afternoon sky with trees along the shoreline.

Essential Information about the State Park

  • Fees: Day use: Free (no entry fee!). $3 per person (ages 6 and up). Park information brochure.
  • Park Hours: The park is open every day from sunrise to sunset. The Visitor Center operates daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. from March to November. During December to February, it is open Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and on weekends from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Please note that the center is closed on New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. Interpretive programs are available year-round. For updates and reservations, visit Arkansas State Parks’ official website or call the park office at (870) 463-8555.
  • Moro Bay State Park welcomes pets, but you must keep them on a leash at all times. Pets are also allowed in the campground and on trails, as long as they’re well-behaved. Just be sure to clean up after them!
  • Best Times to Visit: For ideal weather and outdoor activities, plan your trip during spring (April–May) or fall (September–October). These seasons offer mild temperatures (60s–70s°F), vibrant wildflowers or autumn foliage, and fewer crowds—perfect for hiking, paddling, and exploring the historic ferry exhibit. Summer (June–August) brings hot, humid days ideal for swimming and boating, but pack bug spray for mosquitoes. Winter (December–February) is mild, great for quiet hikes and birdwatching, though some amenities may have limited hours. 

Arriving at Moro Bay State Park Campground

Moro Bay State Park is a paradise for campers, particularly those with travel trailers or RVs. As I arrived at the campground on a chilly December afternoon, I was delighted to spot a group of deer peacefully munching on the grass.

Two deer standing in a grassy area with a forested background at Moro Bay State Park.

The park’s campground offers 23 water/30/50 Amp service/sewer campsites and several tent sites scattered along the lakefront, perfect for setting up a cozy home base. We opted for a site with full hookups, and it was super convenient. The well-maintained campground boasts wide, level paved RV pads, many of which are next to Raymond Lake. It provided lovely views of the bayou scenery from our trailer door.

Campsite with trailer and truck at Moro Bay State Park, featuring a picnic table, fire pit, and autumn trees.

After setting up, we took a moment to relax and enjoy the serene surroundings, taking our dog Sage on a much needed walk. Let’s just say the deer weren’t at all concerned about a dog being in their vicinity. Our site had wonderful views overlooking Raymond Lake. The sunset in the late evening was absolutely beautiful. Because only three other campers were at the campground, we could hear the birds chirping and the leaves rustling in the breeze.

Campsite at Moro Bay State Park with an RV, picnic table, and dog.

In addition to the standard amenities, the campground features flush toilets, hot showers, and a dump station. While staying at the park, we also could access Wi-Fi at the park’s visitor’s center, a great option for checking emails or looking up nearby attractions.

Note: Camping fee: $25-$30 per night for campsites with full hookups. Tent sites are available for around $15 per night.

Sunlight streaming through a dense forest at Moro Bay State Park, highlighting autumn foliage.

Exploring Moro Bay State Park’s Hiking Trails

After settling into camp, we were eager to get out and explore the park’s hiking trails. Moro Bay State Park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, and its hiking trails did not disappoint. The best part? The trails are relatively easy, making them perfect for a relaxing hike. Always remember to stay hydrated while you explore! Refill stations may not always be available, so bring your own water.

Forest scene with trees and a reflective lake at Moro Bay State Park.

We started out on the easily accessible Deer Run Hiking Trail, which begins near the campground. This easy 0.25-mile loop takes one through the park’s deciduous forests. The trail is mostly flat, offering great glimpses over Raymond Lake. This area is excellent for spotting wildlife. We truly enjoyed our stroll through cool, shaded woods and the soothing sounds of water lapping up against the shoreline. We stopped at various places on the trail, seeing views across the lake-just those places for some moments of quiet contemplation.

"Rivers know this: There is no hurry. We shall get there someday." — A.A. Milne, Winnie-the-Pooh

Early the next morning, we took a walk to the Low-Water Trail. This too is also a 1/4 mile loop and the best place for hiking along the river. This is yet another easy trail that presents marvellous views of moving water. We saw many birds such as cardinals and warblers and some deer during this hike.

Interactive ferry display with orange steel structures and wooden deck.

The Fascinating Ferry Interpretive Display

The park features an exhibit on the history of the Moro Bay Ferry that served the Ouachita River. This display is an interactive look at the story of Moro Bay’s busy ferry system, a vital transportation route that played a significant role in the economic and cultural development of this region during the 19th and early 20th centuries.

Parking lot with signs and an orange ferry structure surrounded by trees.

A model of the ferry, historic photographs, and information plaques outline its operation and stories of those who relied on it. The timeline wall visually tells the story of the ferry from its heyday in the 1800s through to the 1930s, where it largely declined into redundancy as modern bridges replaced its service. It also discusses the effects the closure had on the communities along its route and subsequent roadways developed afterward.

a historical sign titled "Getting to the Other Side," likely located in a park setting as part of an interactive ferry display. The sign features illustrations and information about historical ferry transportation and costs. On the left, there is an image of a horse pulling a cart, with text indicating a cost of $1.00 for crossing with a wagon or cart. In the middle, there's an image of cattle, a hog, and a sheep, with the cost listed as 6 1/4 cents per head. On the right, a person stands beside a horse, with the cost noted as 12 1/2 cents for a person or a horse. At the bottom, there's a block of text detailing the dangerous and expensive nature of crossing rivers historically, referencing the first recorded ferry at Moro Bay in 1828 and the fees charged at that time.

It was interesting how farmers relied heavily on the ferry to move their produce and livestock across the river. The exhibit uses rivers like the Ouachita to describe a state identity which has supported an industry and community well before highways existed. The exhibition also speaks about the importance of the bayou as an ecological support coexisting with the wetlands and wildlife of that area during the era of the ferry.

Orange ferry display at Moro State Park with autumn trees in the background.

One of the highlights for us was stepping aboard the actual historic Moro Bay Ferry, featuring metal decking, pulley systems, and a pilot’s wheel. Interactive panels provide insights into how this flat-bottomed vessel operated, using cables or steam power to navigate the gentle waters of the bayou.

Dock with a "NO WAKE ZONE" sign on calm water, surrounded by trees under a clear blue sky at Moro Bay State Park.

Top Things to Do & See at Moro Bay State Park

Moro Bay State Park offers more than just hiking and historical insights; it’s packed with exciting activities! You can have a great time boating, fishing, and observing wildlife along the Ouachita River and Moro Bay..

  1. Cast a Line for Fishing Fun
    The peaceful waters of Moro Bay are a magnificent spot for anglers. Cast your fishing line from the pier or rent a kayak to get to secret places full of catfish bass and bream. Remember to get your Arkansas fishing license, which you can find online or at the visitor’s center.
  2. Paddle the Bayou
    We watched a few kayakers smoothly paddling on the peaceful water. Paddle through the calm waters of the park by renting a kayak or canoe. The calm bayou is great for beginners, providing a relaxing experience as you paddle among trees covered in Spanish moss. The park also features a boat ramp allowing visitors to easily launch canoes or kayaks. During the summer, there are specific areas set aside for swimming. We didn’t get to swim during our trip but we are really excited to do it next time.
  3. Unwind at the Picnic Area
    Prepare lunch or a snack and find a picnic table in the shade at the picnic area by the bayou. Grills, playgrounds and views of the water make it a perfect spot for family get-togethers.
  4. Stock Up at the Camp Store
    Did you forget your snacks or fishing equipment? The camp store in the park has everything you need, including basic keepsakes and local snacks.
  5. Explore the visitor center: The park’s visitor center is a helpful place to learn about the history and nature of the area. You can grab maps to learn about local animals and ask the rangers for suggestions on hiking paths or join in interpretive programs.
Early morning mist over a reflective lake surrounded by trees.

Tips for Visiting Moro Bay State Park

  • Bring your camera: The park boasts stunning scenery. Be sure to take lots of pictures while you hike and explore the area.
  • Southern Arkansas is humid! Don’t let the bugs ruin your adventure! Be sure to pack insect repellent, especially in the warmer months.
  • Whether you’re hiking or exploring the park, wear sturdy shoes for trails and uneven ground.
  • Check the weather: Moro Bay is a wonderful place to visit year-round, but make sure to check the weather in advance. The park can get quite warm in the summer months, so bring plenty of water and sunscreen if you’re visiting during that time.
Elevated building on stilts with green roof in a wooded area.

Cabin Accommodations at Moro Bay State Park

If camping isn’t your thing, consider adding a stay at one of the park’s five cabin rentals to your itinerary. You’ll be treated to lovely views that are charming, rustic, and right by the water. Plus, you’ll have access to modern amenities like Wi-Fi, fully equipped kitchens, linens, satellite TV, heating, and air conditioning.

To find detailed information about cabin rentals availability and prices, visit the Arkansas State Parks website for official details or reach out to the park directly. You can also book your spot online using the state park’s reservation system. Cabins usually get booked quickly, especially during busy seasons. If you plan ahead, you’ll have a better chance of getting the cabin you want.

A deer stands on a grassy area with a backdrop of pine trees in a forest.

Final Thoughts: How To Explore Moro Bay State Park: Your Ultimate Adventure Guide

I am so glad we made this stop on our southern road trip to Hot Springs. A genuine surprise, Moro Bay State Park is a wonderful blend of outdoor excitement, serenity, and remarkable landscapes. Whether you’re exploring the picturesque trails, casting a line in the lake, observing birds, or just soaking in the calm atmosphere, this park is a veritable paradise for nature enthusiasts. To enhance your visit, consider these tips:

  • Enjoy the Great Outdoors–With tranquil water vistas and vibrant forests, every part of Moro Bay has its own charm. Take your time to appreciate the natural beauty surrounding you.
  • Organize Your Activities–Be sure to engage in a variety of pursuits, such as hiking, fishing, and camping, to fully enjoy all that the park has to offer.
  • Respect Nature–Remember to leave no trace and help maintain the park’s beauty for those who come after you. Carry out everything you bring in!
  • Disconnect and Rejuvenate–Moro Bay is an ideal place to step away from the chaos of daily life. Listen to the sounds of nature, take deep breaths, and find joy in the little things.

So, whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, Moro Bay State Park is the ideal spot for your next outdoor escape.

Ready to embark on your own journey? Let Moro Bay State Park be a part of your next road trip through Arkansas—it’s an experience you won’t want to miss! Share your Moro Bay adventures with us in the comments below!