Entry 106: Devil’s Den State Park: Hiking Trails, CCC History & Caves in the Ozark Mountains

History of Devil’s Den

Devil’s Den State Park is one of Arkansas’s most scenic and historically rich parks, tucked deep within the rugged Boston Mountains of the Ozark Plateau. This area has been shaped over millions of years by natural erosion, forming dramatic bluffs, rocky ridges, and mysterious caves. The park's name, “Devil’s Den,” stems from these dark crevices and shadowy caverns that add an eerie mystique to the terrain.

Long before the park was founded, the land was home to Native American tribes, including the Osage, who left behind arrowheads, tools, and signs of early habitation. In the 1800s, settlers arrived, using the land for small-scale farming and timber, although the rocky soil made agriculture difficult. These early residents laid the foundation for the park’s deep cultural roots.

 

The park as we know it began in 1933, when the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) selected the area as a park development project during the Great Depression. These young men built trails, cabins, stone bridges, and the dam that created Lake Devil, all using local stone and timber in a rustic architectural style that still defines the park today. Many of these original CCC structures remain and are listed on the National Register of Historic Places, showcasing the legacy of craftsmanship and conservation from that era.

Opened in 1934, Devil’s Den quickly became a beloved destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Over time, the park has expanded with new amenities and trail systems, while also taking serious steps to preserve its caves and bat populations, particularly in response to white-nose syndrome. Visitors can still marvel at the park’s natural features, though cave access is currently restricted to protect delicate habitats.

 

Hiking at Devil’s Den

Hiking at Devil’s Den isn’t just a great workout—it’s a way to experience Arkansas’s wilderness in all its glory. Whether you’re looking for short scenic strolls or challenging backcountry treks, the park delivers. Here are some standout trails:

• Devil’s Den Trail (1.5-mile loop): A must-do trail featuring caves, a natural stone arch, and some of the park’s most iconic rock formations.

• Yellow Rock Trail (3-mile loop): Steep and rewarding, this trail leads to a panoramic overlook of the Lee Creek Valley.

• Lee Creek Trail (1-mile loop): Gentle and shaded, perfect for families or a peaceful afternoon walk along the creek.

• Fossil Flats Trail (3-mile loop): Shared with mountain bikers, this trail winds past fossil-rich rocks and scenic woodland paths.

• Butterfield Hiking Trail (15-mile loop): Ideal for experienced hikers and backpackers, this rugged backcountry route showcases the Ozarks’ remote beauty.

The park also offers shorter interpretive trails and nature walks, highlighting the area's geology and CCC history. No matter your pace or hiking experience, Devil’s Den State Park offers a meaningful escape into Arkansas’s natural and cultural landscape.

 

Devil's Den State Park Info:

Address: 11333 W AR Hwy 74, West Fork, AR 72774
Coordinates: 35.7843° N, 94.2452° W

Family-Friendly Places to Visit Nearby:

1. Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park – Explore Civil War history and walking trails.

2. Lake Fort Smith State Park – Great for boating, fishing, and a visitor center with exhibits.

3. Terra Studios (Fayetteville) – A whimsical art park and gallery kids will love.

4. Botanical Garden of the Ozarks – Beautiful gardens and kid-friendly nature programs.

5. Arkansas Air & Military Museum – Hands-on exhibits and aircraft displays.

Family-Friendly Places to Eat Nearby:

1. Devil’s Den State Park Café (seasonal) – Casual on-site meals with a view.

2. MJ’s Bar and Grill (West Fork) – Family-friendly comfort food.

3. Catfish Hole (Fayetteville) – Classic Southern fried fish and hush puppies.

4. Penguin Ed’s BBQ (Fayetteville) – Great BBQ and relaxed vibe for families.

5. Ozark Natural Foods Co-Op (Fayetteville) – Deli and grab-and-go for health-conscious families.