Arkansas State Parks Trip Ideas

Imagine waking up to the sound of waves lapping at the shore, birds chirping from tall pine trees, maybe even a boat motor quietly starting its day to bring joy to families spending the weekend away from it all. That’s the kind of wake-up you’ll receive when you staycation at an Arkansas State Park. We’ve chosen seven better-than-a-hotel locales you’re guaranteed to fall...

Arkansas has hundreds of miles of the Trail of Tears, and of the nine states traversed by the trail, is the only state that witnessed the removal of all five of the Southeastern tribes as they moved west. Arkansas State Parks has five parks that lie along these removal routes. These parks have been certified as National Park Service Trail of Tears National Historic Trail...

Fishing is a favored pastime at Lake Dardanelle State Park, making people the top of this food chain. We love to catch fish, but often don’t think of all the creatures it took to build that strong healthy fish on the end of our fishing line. Mayflies are an essential part of the food chain that keeps the fishery at Lake Dardanelle State Park healthy. In this photo essay...

What is now the body of water called Lake Dardanelle was once simply the Arkansas River, a life source to plants and wildlife, as well as the Native Americans and settlers who migrated here. One river many voices.

One of the most awe-inspiring birds you can witness is the Bald Eagle. Once endangered, the Bald Eagle has made an encouraging comeback and now nests along rivers and lakeshores throughout the state. Now, you can find our national emblem in dozens of sites across Arkansas, particularly along shores of lakes and rivers. The most common time to experience Bald Eagle...

Arkansas’s state parks are here to protect natural and cultural resources. They’re here for outdoor recreation, support tourism, and inspire those personal and profound “everlasting moments.”

Mather Lodge is closed for restoration, renovation and major rebuilding, but will stay true to the original design and structure of the CCC era in which it was built.

A person who made the hike to Cedar Falls fifty years ago can return today, make the hike, and little has changed which is inspirational and a relief to many park visitors.

Petit Jean State Park is full of fascinating geology, as well as rare rock art found in the park’s primary archeological site. Find the archeological significance of treasure trove.