U.S. Rep. Westerman files bill to reopen Albert Pike for overnight camping

One of the region’s most popular outdoor locations may reopen for overnight camping following congressional action earlier this month.

On March 17, U.S. Rep. Bruce Westerman (AR-04) introduced the “Ouachita National Forest Overnight Camping Act” to reopen overnight camping at Albert Pike Recreation Area in the Ouachita National Forest. The bill, filed as H.R. 1667, must first pass the House Natural Resources Committee, which Westerman chairs.

The Albert Pike Recreation Area (ARPA) is one of the most popular sites within the 1.8 million-acre Ouachita National Forest. The park features hiking, swimming and day-use only activities.

Albert Pike has prohibited overnight camping since 20 people tragically died in a 500-year-flood in the early morning hours of June 11, 2010. The incident was followed by a lawsuit brought by families of the victims. In 2020 the U.S. Forest Service conducted a public review and planning process to determine the future use of the park. In its final decision, the U.S. Forest Service stated it would not reopen the park for overnight camping due to the risk associated with possible future floods.

If passed by Congress and signed into law, the “Ouachita National Forest Overnight Camping Act” would require the Forest Service to reopen any campsites outside of the 100-year flood plain within 30 days of the bill’s enactment. In addition, the act would also require the development of at least 54 campsites within 2 years of the bill’s enactment. This would include at least eight campsites with water and electric capabilities. All of these would also be located outside of the 100-year-flood plain.