WHAT:
Arkansas State Parks resource management staff are planning a prescribed burn at Pinnacle Mountain State Park, weather permitting. The burn is part of ongoing efforts to reduce hazardous fuels, improve habitat, and promote long-term forest health and visitor safety. The planned burn unit totals approximately 315 acres on and around Pinnacle Mountain.
WHEN:
Burn Window: Tuesday, Jan. 20 – Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2026
Planned daily ignition time: Approximately 9:00 a.m., weather permitting
Actual ignition will only occur on Tuesday and Wednesday, Jan. 20-21, when temperature, humidity, and wind conditions meet strict safety and smoke-management parameters.
WHERE:
Pinnacle Mountain State Park
9600 Highway 300
Roland, AR 72135
Primary burn units are located on and around Pinnacle Mountain itself.
PARK IMPACTS / TRAIL CLOSURES:
On burn days within the window, the following areas are expected to close to the public for visitor safety:
WHERE:
Pinnacle Mountain State Park
9600 Highway 300
Roland, AR 72135
Primary burn units are located on and around Pinnacle Mountain itself.
PARK IMPACTS / TRAIL CLOSURES:
On burn days within the window, the following areas are expected to close to the public for visitor safety:
- West Summit Trail
- East Summit Trail
- Base Trail
- Portion of the Ouachita Trail
- Lichen Link
The following facilities are expected to remain open, conditions permitting:
- Visitor Information Center (VIC)
- West Summit parking area
- Playground
- Kingfisher Trail
Visitors are encouraged to call to check with park social media channels or call the park directly at 501-869-5806 before visiting during the burn window, as specific closures will depend on day-of weather conditions and fire behavior.
SMOKE & TRAFFIC IMPACTS:
Smoke may be visible from:
- Pinnacle Mountain State Park and surrounding communities
- Highway 300 and nearby roadways
- Portions of the Little Rock metro area, including surrounding communities within a 2-5 mile radius
Drivers near the park are asked to use caution, turn on headlights in smoky conditions, and be alert for park personnel and equipment.
WHY PRESCRIBED FIRE?
Prescribed burns are a carefully planned management tool used to:
- Reduce the buildup of dead vegetation that can fuel more severe wildfires
- Maintain and restore native plant communities
- Improve wildlife habitat
- Enhance overall forest health and resilience
Burn operations will be conducted by trained fire personnel under a site-specific burn plan, using established safety and smoke-management standards.
