re: Is Arkansas a hidden gem?

Yes there are black bears. Usually they leave you alone. The worst problem we ever had camping was a skunk family who invited themselves to our camp. I would also recommend you stay on the lookout for copperheads. IMO there are lots of them in northern Ark. important if you hike, hunt, or camp. Especially with kids. Don’t think I said but we lived in mountain home for five years. Would love to move back. We still have good friends there