The Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage & Tourism (ADPHT) is a state government agency responsible for managing and promoting Arkansas’s natural, cultural, and recreational resources. Established through the consolidation of multiple state departments, the agency oversees Arkansas’s 52 state parks, various heritage sites, and tourism initiatives. The department manages diverse recreational facilities including campgrounds, hiking trails, lodges, and visitor centers across the state. Notable parks under its jurisdiction include Mount Magazine State Park, DeGray Lake Resort State Park, and Petit Jean State Park. The heritage division preserves and interprets Arkansas’s historical sites, museums, and cultural landmarks. ADPHT plays a crucial role in promoting tourism throughout Arkansas, marketing the state’s attractions to domestic and international visitors. The agency maintains visitor information centers, produces promotional materials, and coordinates with local tourism organizations to boost economic development through travel and tourism. The department also administers various grant programs supporting outdoor recreation, historic preservation, and tourism development. It works closely with other state agencies and organizations to protect Arkansas’s natural resources while providing public access for recreational activities. The agency’s efforts contribute significantly to Arkansas’s tourism industry, which is a major economic driver for the state.