Woolly Hollow State Park: Camping, Hiking, Swimming & Things to Do

If you’re looking for a peaceful Arkansas getaway where you can swim, hike through the woods, fish in a quiet lake, or spend a night under the stars, Woolly Hollow State Park is an easy place to enjoy the outdoors.

Located near Greenbrier in central Arkansas, the park surrounds beautiful Lake Bennett and offers a mix of water activities, hiking trails, camping, mountain biking, and historic attractions. You can spend a few hours here for a relaxing day trip or stay overnight and turn your visit into a full weekend adventure.

Whether you’re interested in Woolly Hollow State Park camping, hiking, swimming, fishing, boating, kayaking, mountain biking, or Lake Bennett, this guide covers the main things you need to know before visiting.

Where Is Woolly Hollow State Park?

Woolly Hollow State Park is located near Greenbrier, Arkansas, about 18 miles north of Conway.

The park sits in a wooded area of the Ozark foothills and surrounds 40-acre Lake Bennett, which is the center of many recreational activities.

Its location makes it convenient for travelers coming from Conway while still offering the feeling of a peaceful escape into nature.

Woolly Hollow State Park Map

A Woolly Hollow State Park map can make planning your visit much easier because the park’s attractions and facilities are spread around Lake Bennett.

Before your trip, take note of the location of:

• Lake Bennett
• Swimming beach
• Boat ramp
• Campgrounds
• Picnic areas
• Hiking trails
• Mountain biking trails
• Woolly Cabin
• Fishing areas
• Visitor facilities

If you’re camping, also check the location of your campsite relative to the lake, restrooms, trails, and other facilities.

Why Visit Woolly Hollow State Park?

The biggest advantage of Woolly Hollow State Park is the variety of activities available in one location.

You can start the morning with a hike, spend the afternoon swimming in Lake Bennett, enjoy a picnic, and finish the day around your campsite.

Popular activities include:

• Swimming
• Fishing
• Hiking
• Camping
• Kayaking
• Canoeing
• Boating
• Mountain biking
• Picnicking
• Wildlife watching
• Photography
• Exploring Woolly Cabin

The combination of lake and forest makes the park appealing to families, couples, campers, hikers, and anyone looking for a quiet outdoor escape.

Best Things to Do at Woolly Hollow State Park

Swim at Lake Bennett

Swimming at Lake Bennett is one of the most popular things to do at Woolly Hollow State Park during the warmer months.

The sandy swimming beach gives visitors a place to cool down, relax beside the lake, and spend a few hours enjoying the water.

Families can make a full day out of the beach by combining swimming with a picnic and other activities around the park.

Always follow posted swimming rules and keep children supervised around the water.

Go Fishing

Lake Bennett is also a popular spot for fishing.

Depending on conditions and regulations, anglers can find species such as bass, crappie, bream, and catfish.

Fishing can be a great option if you prefer a quieter activity away from the main swimming area.

You can fish from suitable shoreline areas or use a boat when permitted.

Go Kayaking or Canoeing

The lake provides opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and other small-watercraft activities.

Paddling across Lake Bennett gives you a different perspective of the park and can be especially peaceful early in the morning.

If you’re bringing your own kayak or canoe, check the current launch and boating rules before your visit.

Enjoy Boating on Lake Bennett

Visitors can also enjoy boating on Lake Bennett.

Small recreational boats provide another way to explore the lake, fish, or simply spend time on the water.

If you’re planning to bring your own boat, make sure you understand the park’s current requirements before arriving.

Hike the Huckleberry Trail

The Huckleberry Trail is one of the main hiking experiences at Woolly Hollow State Park.

The trail takes you through wooded scenery around the lake and gives you a chance to experience the park beyond the beach and campground.

The route is around 3.5 miles and offers a good option for visitors who want a moderate hike without spending an entire day on the trail.

Bring water and comfortable hiking shoes, particularly during warmer weather.

Explore the Cabin Trail

The Cabin Trail provides access toward one of the park’s historic attractions, Woolly Cabin.

It’s a good choice if you want to combine hiking with a little local history.

The wooded surroundings make the walk enjoyable even for visitors who aren’t looking for a challenging hike.

Walk the Gold Creek Area

The Gold Creek area provides another opportunity to explore the wooded side of the park.

Shorter walks in this area can be useful for visitors who want to experience nature without committing to a long hike.

Go Mountain Biking

Mountain biking is another major activity at Woolly Hollow State Park.

The Enders Fault mountain biking trail provides a longer and more challenging experience for riders who want to explore the park on two wheels.

The terrain can be uneven and demanding in places, so bring plenty of water, a repair kit, and appropriate safety equipment.

Visit Woolly Cabin

Woolly Cabin adds a historical element to the park.

The original one-room cabin dates back to the late 1800s and provides a glimpse into the area’s early settlement history.

If you’re already hiking the Cabin Trail, it’s worth taking some extra time to explore the area around the cabin.

Enjoy a Picnic

Woolly Hollow State Park is also a good place for a relaxed picnic.

Picnic areas near the lake allow visitors to take a break between swimming, hiking, and other activities.

For families, a simple combination of swimming, lunch, and a short trail walk can easily fill an entire afternoon.

Woolly Hollow State Park Camping

Camping is one of the best ways to experience Woolly Hollow State Park.

Instead of leaving after a few hours, staying overnight allows you to enjoy the lake during quieter morning and evening hours.

The park offers both RV-friendly campsites and tent camping options.

A weekend camping trip can include:

• Morning hiking
• Breakfast at camp
• Swimming
• Fishing
• Kayaking
• Afternoon relaxation
• Evening around the campsite

If you’re visiting during a busy summer weekend, reserve your campsite in advance.

Woolly Hollow Campground

The campground offers different types of camping experiences.

Some campsites provide more developed facilities for RV travelers, while tent sites offer a simpler way to spend the night outdoors.

When choosing your campsite, consider:

• Site size
• RV requirements
• Hookups
• Parking
• Restroom location
• Distance from the lake
• Distance from hiking trails

Check the details of your selected campsite before booking so you know what facilities are available.

RV Camping at Woolly Hollow State Park

RV travelers can choose from developed campsites designed to make longer stays more comfortable.

If you’re traveling with an RV, check the site’s length requirements and available hookups before making a reservation.

It’s also useful to consider whether you want to stay closer to the lake or nearer to campground facilities.

Tent Camping at Woolly Hollow State Park

Tent camping is a great option for visitors who want a closer connection with nature.

Bring a reliable tent, sleeping equipment, insect repellent, a flashlight, and weather protection.

Even during warm months, temperatures can become cooler at night, so packing an extra layer is a smart idea.

Woolly Hollow State Park Reservations

If you plan to camp, making a reservation ahead of time is recommended, especially during summer weekends and holidays.

Choose your campsite carefully and check what facilities are included before completing your reservation.

For a quieter experience, consider visiting outside the busiest summer dates.

Woolly Hollow State Park Swimming Beach

The swimming beach is one of the main attractions at Woolly Hollow State Park.

Its location along Lake Bennett makes it easy to combine swimming with picnicking, boating, and other outdoor activities.

Swimming is seasonal, so check current operating conditions before planning your entire visit around the beach.

If you’re traveling with children, stay close to the designated swimming area and follow all posted safety information.

Woolly Hollow State Park Weather

Weather can have a major impact on your experience, especially if you’re planning to hike, swim, or camp.

Summer Weather

Summer is the most popular season because of warm temperatures and ideal conditions for swimming and boating.

However, hiking can become uncomfortable during the hottest part of the day.

Start longer hikes early and carry plenty of water.

Spring Weather

Spring is an excellent season for hiking and enjoying the surrounding greenery.

Temperatures are generally more comfortable, making it easier to spend several hours outdoors.

Fall Weather

Fall brings cooler temperatures and changing foliage.

The wooded scenery around Lake Bennett can make autumn an especially attractive time for hiking, photography, and camping.

Winter Weather

Winter is quieter and offers a completely different experience.

Some seasonal facilities and water activities may not be available, so check current conditions before visiting.

Best Time to Visit Woolly Hollow State Park

The best time depends on what you want to do.

For swimming, boating, and water activities, summer is the obvious choice.

For hiking, camping, photography, and enjoying the forest, spring and fall can be more comfortable.

If avoiding crowds is important to you, consider visiting on weekdays or outside peak summer weekends.

Things to Bring to Woolly Hollow State Park

A little preparation can make your visit much more enjoyable.

Consider bringing:

• Drinking water
• Sunscreen
• Insect repellent
• Hiking shoes
• Swimsuit
• Towel
• Hat
• Sunglasses
• Fishing equipment
• Kayak or other permitted watercraft
• Camping equipment
• First-aid supplies
• Flashlight
• Extra clothing

If you’re hiking or mountain biking, carry more water than you think you’ll need.

Woolly Hollow State Park Visitor Tips

Arrive Early

Summer weekends can become busy, particularly around the swimming beach.

Arriving early gives you more time to find parking and choose a comfortable place near the lake.

Check Weather Conditions

Weather can change quickly, especially when you’re planning outdoor activities.

Check the forecast before leaving and adjust your hiking or boating plans if necessary.

Bring Water

Even when you’re spending most of your time near the lake, drinking water is essential.

Don’t rely on the lake as a source of drinking water.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

If you’re planning to hike the Huckleberry Trail or explore other areas of the park, comfortable footwear will make the experience much better.

Protect Yourself From the Sun

Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, especially during summer.

Keep the Park Clean

Pack out your trash and leave picnic and camping areas clean for the next visitors.

Is Woolly Hollow State Park Worth Visiting?

Yes. Woolly Hollow State Park is a great choice if you want a combination of lake activities, hiking, camping, and quiet natural scenery.

Lake Bennett gives the park its main recreational appeal, while trails, mountain biking, camping, and Woolly Cabin provide plenty of reasons to explore beyond the beach.

Families can enjoy swimming and picnicking, hikers can explore the wooded trails, anglers can spend time fishing, and campers can turn the visit into a relaxing weekend.

The park is also close enough to Conway to make a convenient day trip while still feeling like a genuine escape into nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Woolly Hollow State Park known for?

Woolly Hollow State Park is known for Lake Bennett, swimming, fishing, camping, hiking, boating, mountain biking, and its historic Woolly Cabin.

Where is Woolly Hollow State Park?

Woolly Hollow State Park is located near Greenbrier in central Arkansas, north of Conway.

Can you swim at Woolly Hollow State Park?

Yes. Swimming is one of the park’s main summer activities, with a designated beach on Lake Bennett.

Can you fish at Woolly Hollow State Park?

Yes. Lake Bennett provides opportunities for fishing, including species such as bass, crappie, bream, and catfish.

Can you kayak at Woolly Hollow State Park?

Yes. Kayaking, canoeing, and other small-watercraft activities can be enjoyed on Lake Bennett.

Does Woolly Hollow State Park have camping?

Yes. The park offers both developed camping options and tent camping.

Does Woolly Hollow State Park have RV camping?

Yes. RV-friendly campsites are available, although facilities and hookups vary by campsite.

What hiking trails are at Woolly Hollow State Park?

The park’s hiking opportunities include the Huckleberry Trail, Cabin Trail, and other shorter routes around the park.

How long is the Huckleberry Trail?

The Huckleberry Trail is approximately 3.5 miles and provides a moderate hiking experience through the wooded landscape around Lake Bennett.

Can you mountain bike at Woolly Hollow State Park?

Yes. The Enders Fault mountain biking trail provides a longer and more challenging riding experience.

What is Woolly Cabin?

Woolly Cabin is a historic one-room cabin dating back to the late 1800s. It provides visitors with an opportunity to learn about the area’s early settlement history.

What is the best time to visit Woolly Hollow State Park?

Summer is best for swimming and boating, while spring and fall are excellent for hiking, camping, photography, and enjoying cooler weather.

Conclusion

Woolly Hollow State Park is a well-rounded Arkansas destination where you can combine a relaxing lake day with hiking, camping, fishing, boating, and mountain biking.

Lake Bennett is the heart of the park, but the surrounding trails and historic Woolly Cabin give visitors plenty of reasons to explore beyond the swimming beach.

Whether you’re planning a quick day trip from Conway or a full weekend camping adventure, Woolly Hollow State Park offers an easy way to slow down, spend time outdoors, and enjoy the natural beauty of Arkansas.

Explore More State Parks

If you enjoy lake-based outdoor destinations, you can also explore Cooper Lake State Park for fishing, camping, hiking, swimming, and boating.

For another state park with a strong mix of camping, hiking, swimming, and outdoor recreation, check out Tyler State Park.

If you’re interested in a scenic lakeside destination near Denver, Chatfield State Park offers boating, fishing, hiking, camping, and water activities.

For a coastal experience, Kohler-Andrae State Park offers Lake Michigan beaches, sand dunes, hiking trails, and camping.