The Ozark Gateway Region is known for its rivers, forests, wildlife, and countless opportunities to explore the outdoors. It’s known for its scenic trails, peaceful waterways and trails for photographing wildlife and birdwatching, the region offers adventures around every bend.
As of July 1, 2026, visitors planning to explore certain Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) properties should be aware of a new requirement. The AGFC has introduced an annual $10.50 Wildlife Management Area (WMA)/Lake Conservation Permit for anyone 16 years of age or older using AGFC-owned Wildlife Management Areas or lakes for non-consumptive recreation, including hiking, birdwatching, wildlife photography, kayaking, and paddling.
The permit is not required for anyone who already has a valid Arkansas hunting or fishing license, as those license fees already help support conservation efforts.
It’s important to know that this new permit only applies to AGFC-owned and managed Wildlife Management Areas and lakes. Visitors exploring Arkansas State Parks, National Forests, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers recreation areas, private lands, or leased Wildlife Management Areas are not affected by the new requirement.
What Does This Mean for the Ozark Gateway?
The Ozark Gateway is home to an incredible variety of public lands, and understanding which areas require the permit can help visitors plan ahead.
Visitors to Fulton County can continue enjoying favorites like Mammoth Spring State Park, the Spring River, and other non-AGFC recreation areas without needing the new permit. However, anyone planning to explore nearby AGFC-owned Wildlife Management Areas should check permit requirements before heading out.
In Independence County, attractions like the White River, Batesville’s parks, and other public recreation areas remain unaffected. Outdoor enthusiasts planning to hike at Jamestown Crag Wildlife Management Area will need the annual conservation permit unless they already hold a valid Arkansas hunting or fishing license.
Izard County is home to some of the Ozark Gateway’s most scenic outdoor destinations. Visitors exploring portions of the Sylamore Wildlife Management Area or Devil’s Knob Natural Area should include the conservation permit in their trip planning before hitting the trail.
Jackson County has long been a destination for birdwatchers and wildlife photographers. Those planning a visit to Henry Gray Hurricane Lake Wildlife Management Area should be aware that the new permit requirement applies to non-consumptive recreation on AGFC-managed lands.
The Dave Donaldson Black River Wildlife Management Area, which spans Lawrence and Randolph counties, and Shirey Bay Rainey Brake Wildlife Management Area in Lawrence County are also included under the new permit requirement. These popular destinations are well known for birding, paddling, wildlife viewing, and outdoor photography.
In Sharp County, visitors exploring the Harold E. Alexander Spring River Wildlife Management Area will need the conservation permit. It’s worth noting that attractions such as Bubbling Springs Nature Trail are not AGFC Wildlife Management Areas, so visitors should verify whether a destination falls under AGFC ownership before assuming a permit is required.
In Stone County, portions of the expansive Sylamore Wildlife Management Area are also subject to the new permit. Fortunately, popular destinations such as Blanchard Springs Caverns, the Ozark National Forest, and Mirror Lake are managed by other agencies and are not affected by the new conservation fee.
Supporting Conservation
According to the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, the new permit helps fund habitat management, trail maintenance, conservation projects, and improvements to the public lands that millions of Arkansans and visitors enjoy each year. For frequent hikers, paddlers, and wildlife photographers, the permit provides year-round access while contributing directly to the care of these natural resources.
Before setting out on your next Ozark Gateway adventure, it’s worth checking whether your destination is an AGFC-owned Wildlife Management Area. A little planning will help ensure your trip goes smoothly while supporting the conservation of Arkansas’s beautiful outdoor spaces for years to come.
Permit information and purchasing details are available through the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s website and mobile app.