HOT SPRINGS, AR -- The Ouachita National Forest has announced that the Albert Pike Campground, site of a deadly flash flood last week, will remain closed until further notice. The popular campground is a favorite for families from Arkansas, Texas, Louisiana and Oklahoma.
"We have a lot of work left to do in the area," said Forest Supervisor Norman Wagoner. "Crews are beginning the cleanup process, and personal effects will be processed with the assistance of our law enforcement personnel. We're not sure how long this may take, but it's important to the families and it's important to us."
Due to security and public safety reasons, in addition to the Along with Albert Pike Campground, the following trails and roads are closed:
- Viles Branch trail: The southern portion of Viles Branch loop trail will be closed east of the junction with the Athens Big Fork Trail all the way to the trailhead on Road 2106 near Highway 369. The northern portion of the loop trail will be closed on the 106 road at the road closure barrier east of the private land.
- Little Missouri Trail: This trail will be closed from the second staircase at the Little Missouri trailhead south to the Viles Branch trail and to the Musgrove Hole.
- Bluff Mountain Trail (also known as Albert Pike trail): This short trail at Albert Pike campground will be closed.
- 106 Road: Closed near the county line to its junction with AR 369.
- 512 Road: Closed east of the junction of 512 Road and 912 Road
- 99 Road: Closed at the junction of 99 Road and County Road 73
- County Road 73: Closed at junction of County Road 73 and County Road 43 west to the Albert Pike Campground.
- Winding Stairs Trailhead: Closed.
