(LITTLE ROCK, Ark.) – Arkansas State Parks now has a new Region 3 supervisor to oversee the operations and management of 13 parks in eastern Arkansas. John Stewart has worked at other state parks for the last 13 years and has been the acting Region 3 co-supervisor for the past three months.
“There are many exciting developments happening in Region 3,” said Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism secretary Stacy Hurst. “Over the course of the next several years, Delta Heritage Trail State Park will be completed, creating an attractive destination for recreation enthusiasts. This 84-mile scenic corridor will complement our other assets in the region and we’re confident that John has the skill set needed to effectively manage the complete portfolio.”
Region 3 parks include:
- Crowley’s Ridge State Park
- Lake Frierson State Park
- Lake Poinsett State Park
- Village Creek State Park
- Hampson Archeological Museum State Park
- Mississippi River State Park
- Delta Heritage Trail State Park
- Louisiana Purchase State Park
- Cane Creek State Park
- Arkansas Post Museum
- Lake Chicot State Park
- Herman Davis State Park
- Parkin Archeological State Park
“John Stewart is a great fit as the Region 3 supervisor,” said Arkansas State Parks Director Grady Spann. “John is a proven leader, problem-solver, and team-builder. I look forward to seeing his influence and impact on the parks in the Arkansas Delta and being able to work closely with him as state parks continue to upgrade Region 3 campgrounds and improve park facilities.”
Stewart takes over the position from Marcel Hanzlik who retired after 38 years with the park system.
“His dedication over the last 13 years as a high performing supervisor at DeGray Lake Resort, White Oak, and Crowley’s Ridge state parks has prepared him well for his new position,” said Parks Operations Manager Mike Wilson. “He has well-rounded experience in the operation of many park facilities and services (golf course, cabins, resale, camping, swimming, general maintenance, law enforcement, and interpretive services), which align well with the needs in Region 3.”
Stewart is not only an employee of state parks, but he is also a true fan. Along with Mendi, his wife of 27 years and their son Jude, Stewart has visited all 52 state parks.
“I am excited about getting to work with such a diverse and unique set of state parks ranging from a historic CCC park set on top of beautiful Crowley’s Ridge to a fishing paradise located on the largest natural lake in Arkansas,” said Stewart. “I love the outdoors and Arkansas State Parks and feel blessed that I get to work with an agency that offers so much to not only Arkansans but also guests from around the world.”
About Arkansas State Parks
Arkansas State Parks is a division of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism. Arkansas state parks and museums cover 54,400 acres of forest, wetlands, fish and wildlife habitat, outdoor recreation facilities, and unique historic and cultural resources. The system includes 1,100 buildings (including 183 historic structures), six National Historic Landmarks, a National Natural Landmark, 16 sites on the National Register of Historic Places, and War Memorial Stadium.
The state parks have 1,800 campsites, 1,050 picnic sites, 208 cabins, five lodges, and 415 miles of trails. Eight million visitors annually come from all regions of the country. Park staffs provide over 42,000 education programs, activities, and special events to more than 700,000 participants each year.Established in 1923, Arkansas State Parks preserve special places for future generations, provide quality recreation and education opportunities, enhance the state’s economy through tourism, and provide leadership in resource conservation. Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and visit ArkansasStateParks.com and ArkansasStateParks.com/media to learn more about everything we have to offer.
