Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area School Programs

Based on AR K-12 Science Standards, AR Social Studies Curriculum Framework for Geography and History, & HSPCA Interpretive Themes

Hobbs places a large emphasis on the interpretive programs that park interpreters and volunteers provide to schools and other organized groups.

  • While your experience here should be enjoyable, we strive to offer your group a valuable educational experience, not just a fun “field trip”. Most of our programs are designed to address the standards and framework mentioned above. Some schools have seen an improvement in standardized test scores, and they believe part of that improvement is due to these programs.
  • All programs incorporate interpretive principles and techniques so the programs are relevant (answers the question, “So what?”), are relatable, are hands-on, occur outdoors whenever possible, offer actions individuals can take to make a difference, and that convey a hopeful message for the future. Games with an educational purpose are sometimes utilized.
  • To maintain the quality of programming, we limit the group size to 4 classes or approximately 100 students at a time. K-2nd grade programs are approximately 2.25 hours long with 30-minute stations. 3rd-5th grade programs are approximately 3.25 hours long with 45-minute stations. Programs do NOT include time to look at exhibits or shop for gifts. You would need to allow additional time at the end of the program to do these activities on your own.
  • Most programs have indoor versions in case of inclement weather. We typically do not reschedule due to weather.
  • We try to be flexible with topics and can substitute any of the following topics with a conservation message for any grade level: mammals using pelts and skulls, birds, or amphibians & reptiles using live “ambassadors”.
  • Programs also tie into our park themes and interpretive mission: To reveal the meaning of the relationships between the public and the park’s natural and historic resources.

HSPCA Themes

  1. Ozark Forest: With care, the balance of nature in this forest can provide opportunities for inspiration and wonder.
  2. Water: Through time, water has shaped land and life here.
  3. Van Winkle: In Van Winkle’s time and today, our environment enables prosperity and is affected by our decisions.
  4. Karst: Caves, sinkholes, disappearing streams and other karst features are fragile, and our actions may have unseen consequences.
  5. Recreation: Hobbs State Park’s diverse recreational opportunities encourage a spirit of adventure and joy of discovery.
  6. The HSPCA story: Our state park story is one of changing technology to meet people’s needs, from survival to entrepreneurship to stewardship.
  7. Diversity: With awareness, the diversity of life here inspires wonder and discovery.
  1. Ozark Forest: With care, the balance of nature in this forest can provide opportunities for inspiration and wonder.
  2. Water: Through time, water has shaped land and life here.
  3. Van Winkle: In Van Winkle’s time and today, our environment enables prosperity and is affected by our decisions.
  4. Karst: Caves, sinkholes, disappearing streams and other karst features are fragile, and our actions may have unseen consequences.
  5. Recreation: Hobbs State Park’s diverse recreational opportunities encourage a spirit of adventure and joy of discovery.
  6. The HSPCA story: Our state park story is one of changing technology to meet people’s needs, from survival to entrepreneurship to stewardship.
  7. Diversity: With awareness, the diversity of life here inspires wonder and discovery.

Download the forms below for more information & to book your classes’ enriching field trip.

Please email the filled out program form to chris.pistole@arkansas.gov.