Benton Parks and Recreation has secured more than $750,000 in grant funding to develop a campground and river access point at the Cherry Demuth area, a project expected to enhance outdoor recreation opportunities and support local tourism.
The campground will complement the Benton Greenbelt Trail, which is planned to connect with the Southwest Trail, further expanding Arkansas’ trail network.
The grant is part of $3.85 million in Outdoor Recreation Grants awarded by the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism to 20 counties across the state.
These grants fall under two categories: Facilities for Underdeveloped Neighborhoods (FUN) Park grants and matching grants.
Since its inception, the Outdoor Recreation Grants Program has provided over $55 million in matching grants and $17.4 million in FUN Park grants, supporting the development of public recreation facilities.
“The Outdoor Recreation Grants Program plays a vital role in expanding access to quality outdoor spaces across Arkansas,” said Katherine Andrews, director of the Office of Outdoor Recreation, in a report by MySaline.
“We are proud to support these 23 cities in their efforts to develop parks and recreational facilities that encourage active lifestyles, strengthen local economies, and enhance quality of life.”
For outdoor hospitality businesses and campground operators, investments in public recreation infrastructure can contribute to increased visitor traffic and extended stays in the region.
As more destinations develop recreational amenities, private operators may find opportunities to offer complementary services, such as equipment rentals, guided experiences, or lodging alternatives.
The addition of a new campground in Benton could also serve as a case study for how municipal and private partnerships might enhance outdoor tourism offerings.
Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders emphasized the broader impact of these investments, stating:
“I want Arkansas to be the best state in America to live, to work, and raise a family. But in order to do that, we have to make big improvements to things like our schools, our state parks, and public safety. We are proud to announce that $3.85 million we’re distributing will stretch across Arkansas and across outdoor activities.”
Beyond recreational benefits, the Cherry Demuth project aligns with a growing trend in state and local governments prioritizing outdoor spaces as economic drivers. As infrastructure expands, local businesses—including campgrounds, RV parks, and outdoor outfitters—may see an uptick in visitors drawn by enhanced amenities and trail connectivity.