Woolly Hollow State Park Travel Guide — Arkansas
Our Woolly Hollow State Park guide covers practical planning for Woolly Hollow State Park Arkansas — best time to visit, getting there, and what to do on the ground. This small park, nestled in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains, offers a peaceful retreat centered around its 18-acre (or 40-acre depending on source, but 40-acre is more commonly cited for Lake Bennett) Lake Bennett, providing diverse outdoor activities from swimming and fishing to camping and hiking.
Why Visit Woolly Hollow State Park
For travelers seeking a tranquil escape into the natural beauty of Arkansas, Woolly Hollow State Park offers an ideal destination. We find this park particularly appealing for its blend of serene lake activities and engaging land-based adventures, all within a welcoming, family-friendly environment. The centerpiece, Lake Bennett, invites visitors to cool off with a swim, cast a line for bass or catfish, or paddle across its calm waters.
Beyond the water, the park's forested hills provide a scenic backdrop for a variety of experiences. From leisurely strolls to more challenging mountain biking, the trails here cater to different energy levels and offer opportunities to connect with the local flora and fauna. History enthusiasts will also appreciate the preserved Woolly Cabin, an original 1882 homestead that offers a glimpse into the region's past. It's a place where relaxation and recreation harmoniously coexist, making it a compelling stop on any Arkansas itinerary. For more adventures in the state, explore our guide to the Best places in Arkansas.
Who It's Best For
Woolly Hollow State Park truly shines as a destination for a wide array of visitors. Our team believes it's especially well-suited for families with children, thanks to its lifeguarded swimming beach (seasonal), playground, and easy access to gentle hiking trails. Anglers will find Lake Bennett a rewarding spot, stocked with bass, crappie, bream, and catfish, offering a peaceful day of fishing from the shore or a rented boat.
Couples seeking a quiet retreat will appreciate the serene atmosphere, perfect for a romantic paddleboat ride or a leisurely hike through the woods. Campers, from RV enthusiasts to tent purists, will find well-maintained sites with amenities like hot showers and picnic areas. Even solo travelers looking for solitude and a chance to reconnect with nature will find the park's trails and quiet corners immensely satisfying. It's a versatile park that caters to those who value outdoor recreation without the overwhelming crowds often found in larger destinations.
Getting There & Parking
Understanding how to get to Woolly Hollow State Park is straightforward, as it's conveniently located in central Arkansas. The park's address is 82 Woolly Hollow Road, Greenbrier, AR 72058.
- From Conway: Take Exit #125 off I-40 and travel approximately 12 miles north on U.S. Highway 65. Then, turn east onto Arkansas Highway 285 and continue for about six miles until you reach the park entrance.
- From Little Rock: The park is situated about 50 miles north of metropolitan Little Rock, making it roughly an hour's drive. You would typically take US-65 North from Little Rock, then follow the directions from Conway.
For parking, visitors will find two paved parking lots available near the park office and picnic area. Our research indicates that there are no parking or entrance fees for day-use visitors at Woolly Hollow State Park, making it a budget-friendly option for a day out. This ease of access and complimentary parking contributes significantly to the park's appeal for spontaneous day trips or planned excursions.
Top Things to Do
When planning your visit, you'll discover a diverse range of things to do at Woolly Hollow State Park, ensuring there's something for every outdoor enthusiast. The park's 40-acre Lake Bennett is undoubtedly a primary draw. Swimming is a popular activity, with a sandy, lifeguarded beach open seasonally from Memorial Day to Labor Day, typically from Noon to 7 p.m. A nominal fee is charged for swimming access. For those who prefer to explore the water, canoes, kayaks, pedal boats, and fishing boats are available for rent at the park office/snack bar. Private boat owners can use the free launch ramp, but be aware that internal combustion engines are prohibited on Lake Bennett; only paddles, oars, sails, or battery-powered electric motors are permitted for private watercraft.
Fishing is another one of the prime things to do at Woolly Hollow State Park, with Lake Bennett teeming with bass, crappie, bream, and catfish. Remember to bring your own pole, bait, and tackle, and ensure you have a valid state fishing license.
Beyond the lake, the park offers excellent opportunities for picnicking with shaded sites, charcoal grills, and water hydrants, often overlooking the swimming beach. A conveniently located playground ensures younger visitors have plenty of space to burn off energy. Interpretive programs are also offered by park interpreters, especially from Memorial Weekend through Labor Day, ranging from guided hikes to special events on the park's history. Don't forget to visit the gift shop in the park office for souvenirs.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Woolly Hollow State Park largely depends on the activities you prioritize. We recommend late spring through early fall for those looking to fully enjoy the lake and its amenities. This period, roughly from May to September, brings warmer temperatures perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing. The lifeguarded swimming beach and boat rentals are typically operational during these months, specifically from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
However, the shoulder seasons of spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer their own unique charm. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and mild weather, ideal for hiking and wildlife viewing. Fall transforms the park into a canvas of vibrant autumn colors, providing a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities and thinner crowds. While some water amenities may be seasonal, the campground remains open year-round, offering a peaceful retreat for those seeking solitude in the cooler months. Winter (December-February) is the quietest time, with opportunities for peaceful hikes, though many facilities will be closed.
Where to Stay Nearby
For visitors planning an extended stay, understanding Woolly Hollow State Park lodging options is key. The park itself offers excellent camping facilities, which we highly recommend for an immersive experience. There are 30 premium Class AAA campsites equipped with full hookups (water, sewer, and 50-amp electric service) on paved, level pads that can accommodate RVs up to 60 feet. Additionally, 10 primitive tent-only sites are available, some situated along the water, offering a more rustic experience without hookups but with communal water spigots. All campsites include fire rings and picnic tables, and modern bathhouses with hot showers are conveniently located nearby. Reservations for camping are highly recommended, especially during peak season, and can be made up to a year in advance.
If camping isn't your preference, or if you're looking for more traditional accommodations, several towns within a short drive offer hotel and vacation rental options. Greenbrier, the closest town, has limited but available lodging. Conway, located about 18 miles south, provides a wider selection of hotels. Options in and around Greenbrier and Conway include Hilltop Inn & Suites Greenbrier, Econo Lodge Inn & Suites, Quality Inn Conway, Hampton Inn & Suites Conway, Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Conway, Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Conway, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Comfort Suites Conway, and Super 8 by Wyndham Conway. For a more unique stay, vacation rentals such as "The Sassy House At Dandelion" or "Soda Valley Hideout" in Greenbrier offer amenities like full kitchens and private settings. When considering Woolly Hollow State Park lodging, we advise booking in advance, particularly during peak seasons, to secure your preferred spot.
Sample 2-Day Itinerary
To help you make the most of your visit, our team has crafted a sample 2-day itinerary for Woolly Hollow State Park, blending relaxation with adventure.
Day 1: Lake Fun & History
- **Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM):** Arrive at Woolly Hollow State Park. Check into your campsite or preferred lodging. Head straight to Lake Bennett. Rent a canoe, kayak, or pedal boat from the park office and enjoy a leisurely paddle across the calm waters.
- **Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM):** Enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the shaded picnic sites near the swimming beach.
- **Afternoon (1:00 PM - 4:00 PM):** Spend the afternoon swimming at the lifeguarded beach (seasonal, nominal fee applies). Alternatively, try your hand at fishing from the pier or a rented fishing boat.
- **Late Afternoon (4:00 PM - 5:30 PM):** Take a short, easy hike on the 0.5-mile Cabin Trail to visit the historic Woolly Cabin, an original 1882 homestead that offers a glimpse into the park's past.
- **Evening:** Prepare dinner at your campsite or head into Greenbrier for a casual meal. Enjoy the peaceful evening atmosphere of the park.
Day 2: Trails & Exploration
- **Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM):** Lace up your hiking boots for a more extensive exploration of the park's trails. We recommend the 3.5-mile Huckleberry Trail, which loops around Lake Bennett, offering scenic views and diverse terrain. For mountain biking enthusiasts, tackle a section of the 9.4-mile Enders Fault Mountain Biking Trail.
- **Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM):** Grab a snack from the park's concession stand (seasonal) or enjoy another packed lunch.
- **Afternoon (1:00 PM - 4:00 PM):** Depending on your interests, consider exploring nearby attractions. For example, you could visit Matthews Park in Greenbrier, which features a barrier-free playground and walking trail, or browse the antique shops. Alternatively, if you're up for a longer drive, consider a day trip to Blanchard Springs Caverns for an underground adventure or experience the wild beauty of the Buffalo National River.
- **Late Afternoon/Evening:** Enjoy a final sunset over Lake Bennett or begin your journey home, refreshed by your time at Woolly Hollow.
Is It Worth Visiting?
Our editorial team confidently affirms that is Woolly Hollow State Park worth visiting for anyone seeking a genuine Arkansas outdoor experience. It's a gem that offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle, providing a perfect balance of relaxation and recreation. The park's well-maintained facilities, clear lake, and diverse trails make it an excellent choice for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike.
The absence of entrance and parking fees for day-use visitors also adds to its value, making it an accessible option for budget-conscious travelers. While it may not have the grandeur of a national park, its intimate scale and friendly atmosphere are precisely what make is Woolly Hollow State Park worth visiting. We consistently recommend it for those looking to enjoy swimming, fishing, boating, hiking, and camping in a picturesque setting. It's a place where lasting memories are made, whether you're paddling on Lake Bennett or exploring the historic Woolly Cabin.
Last updated: 2026-07-12 by the Roam States team.