Natural State Adventures
There are so many ways to enjoy Arkansas that will leave you wanting more time in this natural oasis.
Beyond the rushing rivers, peaceful lakes, and exciting hot springs, you will find charming small towns, scenic drives, and quirky attractions that range from rare salamanders to stunning crystals. So grab your gear, and lets go!
Soul Quenching Outdoors
Since some of the most incredible and awe-inspiring aspects of “The Natural State” are found in its outdoor experiences, fall is the perfect season to enjoy the state’s outdoors. The fiery reds and bright yellows of the trees reflect in the flowing rivers and nearby streams, causing a symphony of color. The crisp weather is so refreshing and ideal for hiking.
The Ouachita Mountains offer a cornucopia of recreation, relaxation, and rest for the soul. Find inner peace as you traverse the Ouachita National Recreation Trail, which stretches 223 miles across the Ouachita National Forest from near Talihina, Oklahoma, to Pinnacle Mountain State Park near Little Rock. Choose a day hike or even a multi-day backpacking hike. Fifty miles of the trail are now open to mountain bikes, as well.
If mountain biking is your passion, then head to Southwest Arkansas! This area is home to three Epic mountain bike trails. Epic routes are recognized by the IMBA (International Mountain Bicycling Association) as ‘must ride’ trails throughout the country, and the world. The five bike trails designated Epic in Arkansas include the Lake Ouachita Vista Trail, the Upper Buffalo Trail, the Womble Trail and the Syllamo Trails — three of which are in Southwest Arkansas alone.
Internationally famous trout fishing, as well as unforgettable kayak and canoe adventures, is available on the White River. The White River runs approximately 720-miles throughout its journey through the great Ozark Mountains downward into the state of Arkansas's lower delta region. Fishermen and women from around the world gather near the Bull Shoals Dam to catch catfish, bass, walleye, and sunfish. And there’s so much more to do here than fish — take a scenic tour on the river, or explore the small town.
Families can have a blast at Aunt Grace's Stay 'N Play Resort, a beautiful Bull Shoals Lake Resort in Lakeview. Bring the whole family — even the pets! Ideal for family reunions or family vacations, Aunt Grace’s offers two nearby marinas as well as the lake to launch some incredible adventures! Or, just relax by the pool. Enjoy fresh, hot popcorn every evening — ask Aunt Grace to make you a batch, and use the leftovers to feed the fish. The resort grounds are perfect for hosting a reunion, cookout, or wedding.
auntgracesstaynplay.com
Special Attractions
Arkansas provides some of the most scenic and unique experiences imaginable. Its most popular special attractions are, of course, its springs. Natural springs are a great way to revive and re-energize mind, body, and spirit. You can experience the natural rush and warm flow of water while visiting Hot Springs, where you can view the beauty of springs throughout the city. Hot Springs and Hot Springs National Park owe their existence to an array of springs that still supply naturally heated water for thermal baths. While here, you can relax in a hot springs spa, visit famous Bathhouse Row, or stay at one of the resorts in town. Other towns in the state that have natural springs include Eureka Springs, which is nestled in the Ozark Mountains. Springs flow in locations throughout town including at the popular Basin Spring Park on Spring Street.
A special gem (no pun intended) of an activity to enjoy here is searching for, and even digging up, quartz crystals. Geologists say that Arkansas and Brazil have the best quality quartz on Earth, and today rockhounds, families, and tourists from all over the world head for the Hot Springs and Mount Ida area to go prospecting in the abundant quartz crystal deposits of the Ouachita Mountains in hopes of finding these unique clear, prismatic stones. Whether you are interested in mining for your own crystals in a "dig-your-own" mine or would prefer to buy perfect polished quartz crystals and crystal jewelry in one of the many rock and gem shops in the area, you will surely treasure the natural beauty and "energy" properties of your own Ouachita Quartz Crystal.
Mount Ida is well known as being not only the Quartz Crystal Capital of the World, but also as home to the annual World Championship Crystal Dig! You can compete in this championship event, which takes place September 25-26 this year, with other lovers of crystals. Amateur diggers compete for over $2,000 in prize money! Enjoy two days of digging, and the best part is you get to keep all you find.
mtidachamber.com
Go underground at the Cosmic Cavern in Northwest Arkansas. Cosmic Cavern is Arkansas’s largest privately-owned show cave, discovered in 1845. The cave features a nine-foot soda straw, the longest known in the Ozarks, and two bottomless cave lakes. The South Lake features some really weird, colorless blind trout! The Silent Splendor section of the Cavern is so pristine and untouched that many of the beautiful formations are transparent. Be on the lookout for the extremely rare Ozark Blind Cave Salamanders! Guided tours are available daily, and the cave is a comfy 64 degrees year-round.
cosmiccavern.com
In 1992, Ellen and Darrell Dalton decided to use a portion of their family farm to create Pumpkin Hollow, which featured Arkansas’s first corn maze. Now, 26 years later, Pumpkin Hollow has grown into one of Arkansas’s largest fall attractions. There are activities for the entire family such as hayrides, picking out the perfect pumpkin to take home, and tasty treats like pumpkin rolls to satisfy your fall treat cravings. Each weekend the darker side of Pumpkin Hollow comes out...Horror in the Hollow! Those who enjoy being scared can visit Bubba’s Butcher Barn, Misery Manor, the Forest of Fright, or fight the undead during the Zombie Paintball Patrol.
pumpkinhollow.com
Combining the uniqueness of Arkansas with a delightful choice of accommodation, The Hot Springs Treehouses are a memorable getaway. Nestled in the Ouachita Mountains, bordered by a creek, yet conveniently located near downtown Hot Springs National Park, the treehouses are built about 20 feet high in the canopy of the trees (which means you have great views into the park from your secluded back deck). Watch the wildlife, read a book, soak in your private hot tub or grill something nice for dinner. Inside you'll appreciate the luxurious king size bed with the finest linens, and upscale furniture. There's a small kitchen for your convenience, or you could take a six-minute drive into downtown Hot Springs for dinner.
hotspringstreehouses.com
Camping is an unforgettable experience. With fresh air, wonderful views and a campfire for toasting s’mores, there’s no better way to spend a weekend away. Arkansas is known as The Natural State for good reason, as the beautiful landscape beckons outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. You’ll find campsites throughout Arkansas from the Ozarks to the Delta region, whether you want to camp in a tent to be close to nature or just relax in an RV with the comforts and conveniences of home. Several campgrounds offer a variety of options, including both primitive campsites and hookups for recreational vehicles.
Sensational Small Towns
About two hours away from Little Rock is the charming small town of Stamps. The town was named in honor of Hardy James Stamps, an early settler of the area, and was the childhood home of author Maya Angelou. Angelou depicted Stamps in her book I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings. After Angelou's passing, the city dedicated a city park and lake to her, which you can visit in town. Stamps is part of Lafayette County, which hosts the Lafayette County Fair and Livestock Show every fall.
lafayettecountyfair.com
The hard-working and fun-loving community of Sheridan hosts Timberfest each year — an exciting lumberjack tradition. This contest has been televised on ESPN and lumberjacks from across Arkansas and the region go there to compete. Timberfest in general pays homage to the heritage of the area. Timber has long played an important role in town with towering pines found throughout the region. Join in the fun October 2-3.
grantcountychamber.com
Washington, located in Hempstead County, is home to Historic Washington State Park. The town is both a state park and town intermingled. Washington was a common pit stop for travelers in the 1800s, visited by the likes of Sam Houston and Davy Crockett as they traveled west. James Black, a talented local blacksmith, made the original Bowie Knife here in the 1830s. The town experienced its period of greatest importance during the Civil War, when it became a refugee center for wounded troops. In 1973 Old Washington Historic State Park was created and today the town is one of America's premier historic villages. It includes over 30 carefully restored historic structures that serve as a continuing legacy to life in the town from 1824 to 1889.
Grace Cottage is a wonderful 1920s home situated in the beautiful town of Washington, located next to Historic Washington State Park. The Cottage sleeps a maximum of five people in two bedrooms, which both share a full bathroom. Everything in the town of Washington is within walking distance. The visitor center for Historic Washington State Park is only four blocks from the front door. For lunch, Williams Tavern Restaurant is only two blocks just down the street. Enjoy a restful stay at Grace Cottage and soak up the small town lifestyle. Call 870-703-8256 to reserve your R&R.
Mena is not only a beautiful destination; the journey there is a fantastic one! Whether you ride a motorcycle or want to drive this scenic route, a trip to Mena to experience the impressive views and vistas found along the winding roads of the Talimena National Scenic Byway should have a top spot on your to-do list. The route, which takes you 54 miles along Rich Mountain (home to Queen Wilhemina State Park) and Winding Stair Mountain in the Ouachita National Forest is beautiful year-round, but fall is particularly memorable, when the colorful fall foliage of the Ouachitas surrounds you. The town offers numerous accommodations, from unique vacation rentals to B&Bs and RV Parks.
visitmena.com
More of Arkansas
