All caves and mines on National Forest lands except for Blanchard Springs Caverns are closed to the public to prevent and slow the spread of White Nose Syndrome, a condition that is killing hundreds of thousands of bats throughout the northeastern United States and is quickly spreading toward Arkansas. More
As of August 2010, the Richland Creek Campground is still closed due to safety issues. FS 1205 (CR 1) just south of the campground is inaccessible due to a mud slide caused by heavy rains in 2008. The north entrance has been closed by Forest officials in an effort to maintain safety for our residents and visitors. Access to the Richland Creek Wilderness Area is limited. The campground remains closed. The OHT has been rerouted around the slide.