Little Rock, Ark. (KTHV) -- High gas prices and a struggling economy often lead to "stay-cations" rather than traveling outside the state.  But after weeks of severe weather, some of Arkansas State Parks are suffering.

Several state parks have seen their share of damage from the heavy rain and high winds the past few weeks. But looking ahead, state park officials are optimistic tourism will not be affected in the coming weeks.

State parks are a home away from home for folks across the nation. But after weeks of severe weather, Arkansas took a beating.

"Mother Nature is a little bit out of our control. Fortunately, the quick action of state park superintendents resulted in this last week in no injuries or deaths," says Greg Butts, director of Arkansas State Parks.

LITTLE ROCK - Governor Mike Beebe Tuesday announced the following appointments to boards and commissions:

Lillian Arnold, Pine Bluff, reappointed to the Home Health Care Service Agency Advisory Council. Appointment expires June 30, 2013.

Bill Booker, Little Rock, reappointed to the Arkansas Cemetery Board. Appointment expires January 15, 2015.

Dorathy Boulden, El Dorado, to the Arkansas History Commission. Appointment expires January 14, 2013. Replaces Shelia Lampkin.

Eric Burnett, Fort Smith, to the Arkansas Tech University Board of Trustees. Appointment expires January 14, 2016. Replaces Dean Wilburn.

Una Carroll, North Little Rock, to the Universal Newborn Hearing, Screening, Tracking and Intervention Advisory Board. Appointment expires January 14, 2013. Replaces Debra Goldman.

Joan Cash, Jonesboro, to the Arkansas Agriculture Board. Appointment expires August 15, 2014.