4 Favorite Camping Destinations Near Conway, AR
Camping is a great way to connect with nature, and there are few better places to do it than in the area around Conway, AR. The area is full of wonderful spots to camp; whether you’re looking for somewhere to pitch your tent in the backcountry or a well-equipped place to hook up your RV, there’s sure to be something for you.
4 Favorite Camping Destinations Near Conway, AR
1. Little Rock North KOA
In this scenic, wooded RV camp, you can find a huge range of hookups and amenities, including cable TV! You can access the Arkansas River Trail from the campground, making it a great place to go if you’re planning some hiking. There are plenty of other activities at the campground though, including a pool, hot tub, and sauna.
You can also rent a bike from a concession stand near the entrance, and there is an on-site mechanic on hand to help if things go wrong.
2. Lindsey’s Resort on the Little Red
Located just over an hour’s drive away from Conway and close to Greer’s Ferry Lake, on the banks of the Little Red River, and its world-class trout fishing, the site is well respected in the area. Apart from the cabins and hotel-style lodging available at the site, there are also plenty of sites for RVs, as well as simple tent sites at Lindsey’s Resort on the Little Red River.
All the sites have a picnic table, grill, and fire pit, and the RV sites offer full hookups. If you feel like a break from the campfire cooking, then you can eat in the onsite restaurant. Fishing is the biggest draw here, however, and the resort can arrange tours with a knowledgeable local guide.
3. Woolley Hollow State Park
Woolley Hollow State Park is situated close to Lake Bennet and offers what is often described as the classic state park experience. With swimming, boating, and fishing available on the lake itself and miles of hiking and bicycle trails throughout the rest of the park, there’s something for everyone.
Facilities in the park include over 30 RV campsites and 10 tents. The campground includes a bathhouse with hot showers, and there is a snack bar near the lifeguard’s hut. You can rent boats for use on the lake from the office.
4. Sylamore Creek Camp And Mountain View
Located on the banks of Sylamore Creek, near the imposing bluffs of the Ozark National Forest, the Sylamore Creek Camp and the nearby Mountain View is an excellent place to stop for a while. They have full RV hookups and especially spacious sites, making sure you’ll have plenty of room to enjoy your stay.
There are plenty of fun activities to enjoy, including fishing, hiking, and boating on the creek, and of course, the Ozark National Forest is right on your doorstep.
The central Arkansas area is brimming with even more campsites just waiting to be discovered, and most are within only a short drive from Conway, so why not hit the road and find the perfect spot for you and make sure to visit Crain Buick GMC today to find out more.
A Buyer’s Guide to the 2021 Buick Envision
Your search for the perfect SUV is over. The 2021 Buick Envision offers drivers a powerful, sleek-looking vehicle that’s ready for any adventure you have in store. Here’s everything you need to know.
A Buyer’s Guide to the 2021 Buick Envision
The Envision’s Basics
Hop in the Envision’s driver’s seat and feel the incredible power of this vehicle for yourself. And don’t worry, it’s not just power that the Envision has to offer. You’ll get all the functionality of an SUV in a stylish, modern package.
2021 has brought the Envision an exterior makeover. You’ll enjoy the car’s bold, sporty look that will attract attention for all the right reasons.
Pricing and Trims
The new 2021 Envision offers drivers the choice of one of three trim options. Going from lowest in cost to highest, you first have the Preferred which will run you around $32,995. This will give you just the vehicle’s standard features. If you’re looking for something mid-range, then the Essence could be the trim for you.
If you want to go all out with your Envision, then consider the last trim level. The Avenir will cost you around $41,395 and provide you with some truly phenomenal features. You won’t have any doubts as to the Envision’s opulence when you go with this option.
Powertrain
The new Buick Envision offers drivers some serious power. All three trim levels use the same engine but rest assured that the engine isn’t lacking in muscle and strength. You’ll be driving a 228-horsepower 2-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine alongside a 9-speed automatic transmission.
The Envision comes with front-wheel drive as the standard. Those that prefer a little more control can opt for an all-wheel drive instead.
Interior and Storage
No matter which trim you decide to go with, you can expect a classy, sophisticated interior that’s user-friendly and functional at the same time. If you prefer a lighter interior, go with the Whisper Beige coloring option, or the Ebony if you like a darker, more intimate feel. The seating in the Envision is comfortable and supportive.
And, since you’re purchasing an SUV and expecting a decent amount of storage, you’ll be delighted by the 2021 Envision’s roominess. There’s plenty of room for passengers and cargo alike, and the rear seats can be folded for space for larger items.
Technology
Buick provides drivers with several features that make driving safe and enjoyable. You can count on the car’s Lane Change Alert, Forward Collision Alert, and Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning to ease your mind while you’re driving.
The 2021 Envision also offers drivers some great connectivity features. The Preferred model comes with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, while the latter two trims get a larger 10.2-inch screen. You also have an optional 9-speaker Bose Audio System.
The 2021 Envision has plenty of features that make this vehicle a joy to drive. You’ll love its powerful engine paired with its reliable safety and connectivity features. If you’d like to check one out for yourself, head to Crain Buick GMC today!
6 Impressive Features of the 2021 GMC Sierra 2500
The 2021 GMC Sierra 2500 has been redesigned to offer drivers all of the performance they expect and demand from a Sierra, along with some shiny new bells and whistles. Let’s take a look at 6 of the most impressive new features that drivers are sure to love.
6 Impressive Features of the 2021 GMC Sierra 2500
1. Front and Rear Park Assist
2. Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
Another great feature designed with your safety in mind is the Rear Cross-Traffic Alert System, which will scan the roadway behind you when you are backing up and notify you of any vehicles that may be approaching from either side. Now you will always be able to back out confidently without worrying about being sideswiped or causing an accident.
3. Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert
4. Safety Alert Seat
5. Automatic Emergency Braking
6. Wireless Charging and Connectivity
When you purchase a new vehicle, it can be tempting to get it serviced at a third-party garage or mechanic to save some money. However, your Buick dealer offers all the same services you can get at these discount shops for about the same price. Plus, there are some services that you should always get from a dealer to ensure your Buick continues to run like new.
Top 6 Services You Should Always Get From Your Buick Dealer
Oil Changes
Getting your oil changed regularly according to manufacturer recommendations is one of the best things you can do for your car. This is because oil begins to break down over time and becomes less effective at lubricating your engine. Having your car’s oil changed at your dealership is important because factory-trained technicians will do more than just change the oil. They’ll also make sure your vehicle is in top shape from bumper to bumper as well.
Brake Pad Replacement
When you hear a squealing sound coming from your wheels, it’s probably time to have your brake pads replaced. The squealing sound is an advance warning alert that tells you that your brake pads have worn to unsafe levels. A dealership will know exactly what type of brake pads your car needs and will have them in stock, which may not always be the case with third-party mechanics. Additionally, discounts on brake pads are frequent at dealerships.
Battery Inspection and Replacement
If your battery fails, you definitely want to have it inspected by a trained Buick technician to not only diagnose the problem but also repair the culprit or replace the battery, whichever action is more appropriate. Sometimes, a third-party mechanic may be so eager to sell a battery or a service you don’t need that they don’t really diagnose the underlying problem. At a dealership, we only provide you with exactly what you need, after we’ve thoroughly examined the issue.
Tire Rotation, Wheel Alignment, and Tire Replacement
Whatever you need with regard to your tires and wheels, you can have done at your dealership. Your tread will be inspected at every oil change appointment to make sure your tires still have enough wear left to be safe on the road. It’s also suggested that you get your tires rotated at the same time to ensure they all wear evenly. An alignment is also an important service that will prevent excessive wear on your steering system.
Air Filter Inspection and Replacement
Your air filter needs to remain as clean as possible so that your engine receives the right mixture of air and fuel to run at peak performance. When it gets clogged or dirty, you will notice a decrease in power and fuel efficiency. While you can change this yourself or have a third-party mechanic do it for you, it’s better to have it done by a trained technician at your dealer to be sure you get manufacturer authorized parts.
Wiper Blades Inspection and Replacement
This is another service you can do yourself, but as with the air filter, having your wiper blades inspected and replaced (if necessary) by Buick-trained technicians ensures you’re getting the best parts for your vehicle as specified by the manufacturer.
No matter what service you need for your Buick, you can get it done quickly and properly through your dealer. Contact Crain Buick GMC today to discuss your maintenance and repair needs.
There are many marvelous things about Conway, AR, but nothing beats the great fishing spots. The rivers, streams, lakes, and ponds in the area are teeming with a wide variety of fish and offer a fishing opportunity for every fisherman.
6 Favorite Fishing Spots in and Around Conway, AR
1. Craig D. Campbell Lake Conway Reservoir
The lake covers a staggering 6,700 acres and is approximately eight miles long, with 52 miles of shoreline to fish from. The lake is well-known for its endless supply of bluegills and redears. It is also a favored spot for hooking bream, bass, crappie, and catfish.
You can wet your line from a boat, the banks, or you can fish from the docks. There are many fishing access points along the lake, from piers to stretches of cleared banks.
2. Beaverfork Lake
Beaverfork Lake Park is the largest in the city. It is not only a perfect place for birdwatchers but a fisherman’s paradise. The lake in the park is teeming with largemouth bass, bluegill, catfish, and crappie. Come and enjoy the tranquil surroundings and listen to the songbirds in the maples, oaks, and pines along the shoreline while you wait for the fish to bite.
3. Lake Bennett
The 40-acre Lake Bennett in Woolly Hollow State Park, just 18 miles from Conway in Greenbrier, is a popular fishing destination. Here, you can hook bass, bream, crappie, and catfish. You can fish from the shoreline or from a boat. If you don’t have your own boat, flatbottom fishing boats, canoes, kayaks, and pedal-powered boats are available for rent. If you are a boat owner, the launch ramp is available free of charge.
4. Arkansas River
The river is home to a wide variety of species and presents fishing opportunities to every kind of angler. Here you can either fish from a boat or from the banks. Anglers reel in blue, channel, and flathead catfish, sauger, largemouth, hybrid, striped and white bass, bluegill, crappie, redear, striped and spotted sunfish.
5. Big and Little Maumelle Rivers
The Little Maumelle River flows to the south and the Big Maumelle River flows to the north of Pinnacle Mountain. The best spot to fish for bass, crappie, bream, and catfish from either of these rivers is in the Pinnacle Mountain State Park. Here you can fish along the banks, from the piers, or from a boat on both the Little Maumelle and the Big Maumelle Rivers.
6. Environmental Education Pond
The EE Pond in Pinnacle Mountain State Park is stocked every spring with catfish by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. The pond is a regular and favored fishing hole and a great spot for beginners and young anglers. Kids 15 and younger don’t need to have a fishing license to fish in the pond.
Grab your fishing tackle and experience these fantastic fishing destinations close to the city. Visit the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission website for more information. Call Crain Buick GMC today for more suggestions on great fishing spots in our area!
Five Reasons to Get an Engine Diagnostic
Motor vehicles are complex machines, and often, it can be difficult to know if a component needs to be repaired or replaced, especially on newer cars that have many computerized parts. For this reason, among others, it’s important for drivers in Conway, AR to get an engine diagnostic if they believe something’s wrong with their car.
Five Reasons Why Conway, AR Drivers Should Get an Engine Diagnostic
You Have a Feeling Something’s Wrong
You have probably become very familiar with the way your car feels and the way it sounds when it’s running properly, so you’re the best source for knowing when something’s not quite right with your vehicle. If you feel like your car is running differently, or if you hear a new or different sound than normal, getting your engine diagnosed at a service center is a guaranteed way to determine if a repair or replacement is necessary.
Your Check Engine Light Comes On
The check engine light on your dashboard is triggered when something internal isn’t working properly on your vehicle. This could be the transmission, the engine, the radiator, the alternator, or any number of other components. The only way to know for sure what is wrong with your car is to bring it into a service center to have it diagnosed. This will ensure the problem is found quickly so you can repair or replace the part before further damage occurs.
You Save Time and Money
At one time, you’d have to guess what’s wrong with your car based on symptoms, but if you weren’t right, you’d have to try another repair to fix the problem. This guesswork takes time and can end up costing a lot of money depending on whether you guess the right repair on the first try or if it takes several tries. Getting your engine diagnosed, though, will find the problem right away so that your time and money aren’t wasted.
You Want Peace of Mind
Most manufacturers will recommend that you get your engine diagnosed at least once a year just to make sure there isn’t a problem brewing somewhere that can’t yet be detected by a human. Car computers are extremely sensitive and can tell a trained technician when a part is starting to fail. Getting your engine diagnosed at least once a year, or whenever you have your oil changed, can help you catch small repairs before they turn into big, expensive repairs.
You’re Buying a Used Vehicle
Before you commit to buying a used car, especially from a private seller, you should bring it in to a service center and have diagnostic tests performed. This will tell you anything that might need to be repaired either now or in the near future that can help you make an informed purchasing decision. Sometimes, there could be issues even the seller doesn’t know about that can help you get a better deal, as well.
Your car is a significant investment, so be sure to take care of it by having repairs diagnosed early. Bring your car by Crain Buick GMC today to have diagnostic tests performed to ensure your vehicle is safe to drive.
6 Fun Activities to Enjoy at Lake Conway
One of the best things about Conway, AR, is the variety of interesting things to do and see here. There is plenty to do with the kids, history to immerse yourself in, and ways to relax too. One of our favorites is Lake Conway, a 6,700-acre man-made lake, which is well worth a visit as it is the biggest of its kind in the country.
6 Fun Activities to Enjoy at Lake Conway
Go Fish
There are lots of sportfish in the lake so grab your tackle and head down to catch yourself something special. If you catch something smaller than 10-inch you must throw it back so this means the lake is full of large crappie. There’s also bass, catfish, bream, bluegill, and many more besides. There are handicapped-accessible fishing piers here too. During the season, it is legal to take game fish with spear guns.
Paddle About
Grab a kayak and experience the lake up close. It is so big it is rarely overcrowded with boats and the peacefulness of the paddles in the water means you can get closer to any wildlife without scaring it away. Use the boat ramps to enter the water safely and enjoy the tranquillity of the area.
You Can’t Beat Boating
If you’ve got a boat, you can launch it at the lake at the public docks. You can also rent one from one the lakeside shops. This is a great way to spend some quality time with others, fishing or just enjoying the scenery, and visiting all the 8 miles of the length of the lake. There are a good variety of clearly marked boat trails to keep you safe from any unseen dangers in the water, like stumps or logs.
Birds of a Feather
At the right times of the year, you could see pelicans and egrets, ducks, wild and water turkeys, geese, and seagulls. A variety of migratory birds use the lake as a feeding stop en route. There are even bald eagle nesting areas so if you’re really lucky, you’ll see our national bird caring for its young.
Want to Hunt?
If hunting is your thing, next to the lake is the Camp Robinson Wildlife Management Area. There are small game you can hunt here, as well as turkey, and deer. Not only that, there are plenty of trails to enjoy walking and even an archery range to release your inner Robin Hood.
Stay under Canvas
Thanks to the various campsites around the perimeter you could even camp lakeside. Pitch your tent and relax under the night sky. The perfect way to relax to really feel like you are part of nature. In the morning, restock at one the lakeside bait shops and get the catch of the day before anyone else is even out of bed yet.
The whole area is so beautiful, it’s really worth a visit. Whether you’re looking to visit with one friend or the whole family, towing a boat or carrying a kayak, it’s important to have the right vehicle. Visit us at Crain Team Conway and we can help you choose from our selection of new and pre-owned vehicles to suit your needs, lakeside, seaside, and roadside.
How Often Should You Get a New Car Battery?
Nothing is more aggravating than not being able to start your car when you need it most. Often, the culprit is a dead battery, but there are some signs to know when and how often you should get a new car battery to make sure you don’t get stranded with a car that won’t start.
How Often Should You Get a New Car Battery?
Typical Battery Life
Many car batteries can last for at least five years, especially if you drive in ideal conditions and you take care to maintain the battery as much as you are able. However, on average, a car battery will start losing charge and wearing down after about three years. With every charge, your battery becomes a little less efficient and holds a little less charge. Eventually, it becomes challenging for the battery to provide enough power for the car to start.
After approximately four years, you shouldn’t rely on your battery to start every time. Even if you’ve had no problems in the first few years, your battery is not as efficient as it once was, and just like your phone battery, when the charge level hits a certain point, it starts to drain even faster. It’s always a good idea to get your battery checked when you get your oil changed to ensure it’s still holding an adequate charge.
Battery Maintenance
While you probably shouldn’t let your battery go for five years, just because you never know if it’s truly reliable or not, there are some maintenance tasks you can perform to ensure your battery lasts as long as possible. Clean the top of your battery and the cables regularly with a water and baking soda mixture and a non-metallic brush to prevent corrosion. Use a post cleaner to clean the terminals and remove any debris or corrosion.
Visually inspect the battery’s case to make sure it is still in a rectangular prism shape. If it’s bulging or caved in anywhere, you need to replace it. This is an indication that something has shorted inside the battery that could cause damage to other vehicle components or even make the car unsafe to drive. Have your battery’s fluid levels checked when you get an oil change to make sure the level is appropriate for continued use.
How to Tell If You Need a New Battery
If your car hesitates when starting up instead of turning over right away, it could mean that your battery is no longer providing sufficient charge to start your car. While your car will eventually start, the hesitation indicates that your battery is working harder than it should. Additionally, if you notice your headlights or interior lights flickering, that’s a sign that the power is not distributing properly and that there’s not enough charge to power your electronics and your car.
In most cars, if the battery is going bad, you’ll get a warning light on your dashboard. Typically, this is the “Service Engine Soon” light, but some makes and models might have an actual battery light. This is the most obvious indication that you need to replace your car’s battery.
Regular inspection and cleaning can extend the life of your battery, but even then, you should probably replace it after about three years. Come by Crain Buick GMC in Conway, AR today and we’ll install a new battery for you.
Buying a new GMC is an exciting prospect! If you’re in the market for your next car, here are a few reasons why you should visit your local GMC dealer.
4 Benefits of Buying Your Car From an Authorized GMC Dealer
1. You’ll Know the Car Is Quality
You can try your luck at a private seller, but unfortunately, there’s no way to guarantee that the car you’re looking at is good quality. And you may not find out that it’s not a good quality car until it’s too late!
But when you go straight to your dealership, you can trust that the vehicles are all high-quality. Dealers and manufacturers work hard to provide their customers with reliable products that last: their reputation is on the line! If you want to trust in the quality of your new vehicle, going to a dealership is your best bet.
2. Your Dealer Will Offer You a Warranty
Warranties make sure that if the unexpected happens and something goes wrong with your car, you and your vehicle will be kept safe. At the very least, knowing that you have a warranty on your car can give you great peace of mind.
You won’t often be able to get warranties from private sellers! This means that if something happens to your car, you’re responsible for paying for all the repairs that need to be done, which can set you back a fair chunk of money.
3. Buying from a Dealer Is More Convenient
Going to a dealership to buy your car means being able to take your time. Everything is in one location, and if you feel on the fence about a vehicle, most dealerships will let you have a day or two to think over your decision.
Buying from an independent seller, on the other hand, can often feel rushed. You might feel pressured into making a decision that you regret later. If you want to maintain a clear head while you’re car shopping, visiting a dealership will help you do that.
4. The Dealership Is Staffed with Experts
The customer service representatives that work at your local dealership are used to working exclusively with this brand of car. This is beneficial to you because it means that you’re talking to the experts when you go to your dealer. The staff will be able to answer any questions you might have about their vehicles and will be able to direct you towards the make and model that works best for your lifestyle.
Don’t expect that kind of expertise when you go to a private seller! They may know the general facts about the vehicle they’re selling, but they most likely won’t be able to get into any of your more complicated questions.
While shopping for a new vehicle can be exciting, it can also be very stressful. With so many options out there, the whole process can be overwhelming. Skip the stress of scrolling through online ads and head to Crain Buick GMC where you’ll get expert advice, high-quality cars, and the best service possible.
Get to Know the 2021 GMC Acadia
The 2021 GMC Acadia offers all of the amenities of a full-sized SUV in the convenient package of a mid-size. The impressive features and capabilities of the Acadia are paired perfectly with the service and loyalty you’ll find at Crain Buick GMC.
Intelligent Cabin Design
The Acadia’s beautifully designed cabin seats up to 7 with a removable second-row middle seat to give the convenience of Captain’s chairs. The Smart Slide® system of the second-row seats provides easy access to the third-row, while the passenger-side tip option allows the seat to slide forward and angle slightly.
The driver and front-seat passengers will enjoy the available heated and ventilated perforated leather-appointed seats, while every passenger will benefit from the standard tri-zone climate controls strategically placed around the cabin.
Adaptable Cargo Space
Both the second and third-row seats fold flat to deliver cargo space up to 79 cu. ft. The split-folding seats and Smart Slide second row gives the Acadia an entirely adaptable storage area for all business and recreational needs. This SUV also features a large under-console storage area accessible by both the driver and front-seat passenger, designed to keep the front seats clear of distractions.
The 2021 GMC Acadia Models
GMC offers the 2021 Acadia in four trim levels, all with standard 9-speed automatic transmission. The SLE and SLT models both start at $33,600, the AT4 starts at $41,100, and the Denali starts at $46,300. The SLE and SLT models are both available in the new Elevation Edition which features black exterior accents.
Tailored to Your Needs
The Acadia offers many features to customize your driving experience. The convenient keyless entry and push-button start begin your journey, while the Dual Skyscape® Sunroof enhances it. The available leather-wrapped, heated steering wheel complements the heated, adjustable side mirrors on those cold mornings, and the hands-free, programmable power liftgate, standard on the SLT and above, gives easy access to load your cargo by waving your foot under the rear bumper to open the liftgate.
Informative Displays
GMC’s standard 8” diagonal Infotainment System offers available navigation and standard safety features. With Apple CarPlay® compatibility and Amazon Alexa Built-In, you can check the weather, place calls, control smart home devices, find parking, and get directions all with voice-activated technology. Use the available 4G LTE Wi-Fi® Hotspot to connect up to seven mobile devices without using up any of your smartphone’s data plan.
GMC’s technology is designed to keep you safe by utilizing the available 6” diagonal color Head-Up Display, which uses your windshield to project safety warning alerts and keep you informed about your speed, fuel levels, and more. The rear-view mirror also doubles as an available Rear Camera Mirror giving the driver a less obstructed view from the vehicle’s rear.
GMC pulls out all the stops with the 2021 Acadia. Its versatility and adaptability are what make it one of the most innovative and forward-thinking mid-size SUVs on the market. Call or stop by Crain Buick GMC in Conway today to see how the Acadia will fit into your life and your budget.
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