Raccoons in Arkansas: Where to Look and What Signs to Watch For

Raccoons occupy all 75 counties in Arkansas, but your best odds are near water. Streams, rivers, and lakeshores in the Ozark and Ouachita National Forests hold high densities. They also adapt well to suburbs and urban parks. Check out the Arkansas wildlife hub for more state-specific guides.

Raccoons are nocturnal, most active from dusk to dawn. In Arkansas, they often emerge around sunset and forage until midnight. During early morning hours, you might spot them heading back to dens. For a broader overview of raccoon habits, visit the raccoon animal page.

Raccoon tracks show five distinct toes on both front and hind feet, with a narrow heel pad. In mud or soft soil, look for prints about 2–3 inches long. Other signs include scat (often containing berry seeds) and scratched trees near water. Finding these clues confirms recent raccoon activity.

See our state animal guide for the next step.

Raccoons favor mixed hardwood forests with a water source nearby. They den in hollow trees, rock crevices, or abandoned burrows. In the Delta region, bottomland hardwood forests are prime habitat. In the Ozarks, look along creek beds and around beaver ponds.

Raccoons are opportunistic omnivores. Their diet includes crayfish, frogs, insects, fruits, nuts, and bird eggs. In suburban areas, they raid garbage cans and pet food bowls. Understanding their feeding habits helps you predict where they might be foraging.