Old Post Road Park Gate House

- 1063 Lock and Dam Rd, Russellville, AR 72802

For Arkansans looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that the state proudly offers, Old Post Road Park Gate House in Russellville serves as a fantastic starting point. This particular entry point provides access to the renowned Old Post Road Park, a well-regarded campground managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Customers consistently praise the park's cleanliness, noting it as a "Very clean park" with "lots of room for those kiddos to play!" and a "Great view of the river!" These testimonials underscore the park's commitment to providing a top-notch outdoor experience.

Old Post Road Park is much more than just a place to stay; it's a vibrant recreational area designed to cater to families, anglers, hikers, and anyone seeking a peaceful escape by the water. With its strategic location near the Dardanelle Lock and Dam, it offers a unique blend of natural serenity and engaging activities. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, the Old Post Road Park Gate House is your gateway to exploring one of Arkansas's most beloved outdoor destinations. It promises a refreshing and memorable experience for all who visit, making it an ideal choice for locals eager to discover their state's natural wonders.

Old Post Road Park Gate House is strategically located at 1063 Lock and Dam Rd, Russellville, AR 72802, USA. This address places it on the northern bank of the Arkansas River, directly adjacent to the Dardanelle Lock and Dam. This prominent position offers campers unparalleled access to Lake Dardanelle and the scenic Arkansas River, providing stunning water views and a unique vantage point to observe the lock and dam operations.

Russellville, a thriving city in the Arkansas River Valley, perfectly complements the campground's natural setting. The proximity to Russellville ensures that visitors have convenient access to urban amenities. Essential services such as grocery stores, gas stations, restaurants, retail shops, and medical facilities are all within a short driving distance. This blend of remote natural beauty and urban convenience is a significant advantage for campers, allowing them to easily restock supplies or enjoy a meal out without straying far from their outdoor retreat.

Accessibility to Old Post Road Park is excellent, particularly for those traveling with RVs or trailers. The roads leading to the gate house and within the park are well-maintained, with paved interior roads and level sites, making it easy for vehicles of all sizes to navigate and set up. Its location near major roadways in the Russellville area ensures a straightforward drive for Arkansans coming from various parts of the state. Even during festivities, as one reviewer noted, "The park had plenty of parking, even while festivities were going on," indicating robust infrastructure designed to handle visitors. This ease of access, combined with the tranquil atmosphere, makes it an ideal spot for a stress-free camping experience.

Old Post Road Park, accessed via its Gate House, offers a comprehensive suite of services and facilities designed to enhance the camping experience for all visitors. As a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE) managed park, it maintains high standards of quality and upkeep.

• Campsites with Full Hookups: The park provides numerous campsites, many of which are reservable, equipped with essential hookups. These typically include water and electric service (both 30 amp and 50 amp are available on various sites), catering to a wide range of RVs, trailers, and even tent campers seeking amenities. While not all sites have sewer hookups, there is a convenient dump station on-site.
• Trailer Dump Station: An accessible and well-maintained dump station is available within the park, allowing RVers to conveniently dispose of their wastewater.
• Clean Restroom and Shower Facilities: The park boasts modern and meticulously maintained bathhouses with flush toilets and showers. Reviews consistently praise the cleanliness of these facilities, often noting the availability of hot water, which significantly enhances comfort.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is typically furnished with a picnic table and a fire ring, ideal for outdoor dining, cooking over an open flame, and enjoying traditional campfire activities. Some sites may also feature covered picnic tables.
• Boat Launch Ramp: For those eager to explore Lake Dardanelle and the Arkansas River, a dedicated boat launch ramp provides easy and convenient access for all types of watercraft.
• Playgrounds and Open Spaces: The park is noted for having "lots of room for those kiddos to play!" with dedicated playground areas, making it an excellent choice for families with children.
• Sports Courts and Fields: The Old Post Road Recreation Area, which encompasses the campground, offers a wide array of sports facilities, including tennis courts, basketball courts, volleyball courts, soccer fields, and softball fields, providing ample opportunities for active recreation.
• Disc Golf Course: A popular 18-hole disc golf course is available within the recreation area, offering a fun and engaging activity for campers of all skill levels.
• Mountain Biking Trails: The park provides access to well-maintained mountain biking trails, including parts of the Arkansas River Trail and the Old Post Mountain Bike Trail, catering to both casual riders and more experienced mountain bikers.
• Visitor Protection/On-site Attendants: The presence of on-site park attendants or gate house staff ensures a sense of security, provides helpful information, and contributes to the overall smooth operation of the campground.
• Pet-Friendly Environment: Pets are generally welcome at COE parks, with standard rules regarding leashing and responsible waste disposal to ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.
• Year-Round Operation: The park is open year-round, allowing Arkansans to enjoy its amenities and beauty across all seasons.

These extensive services contribute to a well-rounded and highly satisfying camping experience at Old Post Road Park.

Old Post Road Park, accessed via its Gate House, is renowned for several standout features and highlights that make it a premier camping and recreation destination in Arkansas. These attributes are consistently praised by visitors and contribute to its strong appeal.

• Spectacular River Views and Lock & Dam Proximity: One of the most distinctive features is its location directly on the Arkansas River, offering "Great view of the river!" and close proximity to the Dardanelle Lock and Dam. This provides not only picturesque scenery but also a fascinating insight into the river's navigation. The lock and dam system itself is a point of interest for many.
• Exceptional Cleanliness and Maintenance: Visitors consistently laud the park's immaculate condition. Reviews like "Very clean park" and implicit feedback about well-maintained facilities (restrooms, showers, grounds) highlight the dedication of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to upkeep. This ensures a pleasant and hygienic environment for all campers.
• Spacious and Family-Friendly Design: The park is noted for having "lots of room for those kiddos to play!" with ample open spaces and designated playgrounds. The campsites themselves are often described as large, level, and well-spaced, providing privacy and comfort for families and groups.
• Abundant Recreational Opportunities: Beyond just camping, Old Post Road Park offers a wealth of activities. Highlights include a boat launch for easy access to Lake Dardanelle for fishing and boating, extensive sports facilities (tennis, basketball, volleyball, soccer, softball), and a popular disc golf course.
• Dedicated Mountain Biking Trails: For cycling enthusiasts, the park provides access to excellent mountain biking trails, including the Old Post Mountain Bike Trail, catering to various skill levels and offering a fantastic way to explore the natural surroundings.
• Wildlife Viewing Hotspot: The Arkansas River Valley, particularly around Lake Dardanelle, is a prime location for wildlife observation. It's a "favorite winter destination for bald eagles," offering incredible opportunities for birdwatching and photography.
• Mature Trees and Natural Ambiance: The presence of "Great mature trees" throughout the park provides abundant shade and enhances the natural, serene atmosphere, contributing significantly to a relaxing camping experience.
• Helpful and Friendly Gate House Staff: While reviews specifically mentioning the gate house staff weren't provided for this prompt, COE parks are generally known for friendly and helpful park attendants who ensure a smooth check-in process and assist visitors with their needs, contributing to a welcoming first impression.

These collective features make Old Post Road Park an outstanding choice for anyone seeking a blend of outdoor adventure, relaxation, and convenience in the heart of Arkansas.

As a facility managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE), Old Post Road Park Gate House adheres to the standard fee structures and discount policies applicable to federal recreation sites. While they typically do not run spontaneous "promotions" in the commercial sense, there are established benefits for certain visitors.

Key rate information and potential discounts generally include:

• Standard Campsite Rates: Nightly rates for campsites with electric and water hookups typically range from $20 to $26. Prices can vary based on the specific site amenities (e.g., 30 amp vs. 50 amp service) and whether it's a standard or group site.
• America the Beautiful Pass Discounts: This is the primary form of discount offered at federal campgrounds. Holders of the America the Beautiful – The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Senior Pass or Access Pass are usually eligible for a 50% discount on the nightly rate for their campsite. This can significantly reduce the cost of a stay, making it a very attractive offer for qualifying individuals.
• Reservable Sites: While not a discount, the ability to reserve sites in advance (often through Recreation.gov) is a valuable feature, especially during peak seasons or holidays, ensuring you have a spot upon arrival.
• Picnic Shelter and Sports Field Rentals: While not directly camping offers, the park also has reservable picnic shelters (typically $50/day) and sports fields (around $30/day) for group events, offering value for larger gatherings.

It is always highly recommended to contact Old Post Road Park Gate House directly using the provided phone number, or to check the official Recreation.gov website, for the most current and precise information on rates, availability, and any applicable discounts for federal pass holders. Fees and policies can sometimes be updated, and direct communication ensures you have the most accurate details for your trip planning.

For inquiries, reservations, or to gather more detailed information about Old Post Road Park and its amenities, please use the following contact details:

• Address: 1063 Lock and Dam Rd, Russellville, AR 72802, USA
• Phone (Park Office/Gate House Information): (479) 968-7962 or +1 479-968-7962
• Reservations (typically through the federal booking system): (877) 444-6777 (This is the number for Recreation.gov, which handles bookings for U.S. Army Corps of Engineers parks).

It is often best to call the park office directly for specific questions about the campground's facilities, local conditions, and to speak with the gate house staff who can provide on-the-ground insights. For booking a site, especially in advance, utilizing the Recreation.gov phone number or their website is the standard and most efficient procedure for federal campgrounds like Old Post Road Park.

Old Post Road Park, accessed via its welcoming Gate House, is an exceptionally suitable destination for locals throughout Arkansas, offering a diverse and enriching outdoor experience that is both convenient and highly rewarding. For Arkansans, its prime location in Russellville, directly by the Arkansas River and the Dardanelle Lock and Dam, means a premier natural retreat is always within easy reach, minimizing travel time and maximizing enjoyment.

The park's consistent reputation for being "Very clean" and having "lots of room for those kiddos to play!" directly addresses what many local families seek in a camping destination. The spacious, well-maintained sites, coupled with "Great view of the river!", create an inviting atmosphere for relaxation and connection with nature. Whether you're pitching a tent or setting up an RV, the comfortable facilities, including clean restrooms with hot showers and a convenient dump station, ensure a hassle-free stay.

Beyond the excellent camping amenities, Old Post Road Park is a hub for recreation, making it perfect for locals looking for active pursuits. With direct access to Lake Dardanelle for fishing and boating, extensive sports courts, a disc golf course, and mountain biking trails, there's truly something for every member of the family. This variety of activities allows Arkansans to fully embrace the outdoor lifestyle without venturing far from home. The serene setting, even during local festivities, ensures a pleasant environment, demonstrating why it's a cherished spot for many. Old Post Road Park offers a comprehensive, clean, and engaging outdoor experience, making it an ideal recurring destination for Arkansas residents to unwind, explore, and create lasting memories in the heart of the Natural State.

Old Post Road Park Gate House

1063 Lock and Dam Rd, Russellville, AR 72802, USA