
Discover Events

Petit Jean State Parks
Arkansas State Parks Calendar of Events
T.R.A.I.L.S.
Friday, September 19, 2025
/ 9 a.m. - 9:45 a.m.
Don’t leave home without it! Join a park interpreter to hike the Big Ben Trail and discover the must-haves to remain safe and have fun on trails. The Big Ben Trail is a moderately…
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Cedar Creek Rock Creep
Friday, September 19, 2025
/ 9 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
From carpet rocks to iron formations along a beautiful creek, Cedar Creek Trail is one of the most fascinating areas of Petit Jean State Park. Join a park interpreter to discover some of the trees…
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Legacy of Mather Lodge
Friday, September 19, 2025
/ 11 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
Join a park interpreter for a tour of this architectural park gem. Discover some secrets of the past and gain insight into the undergone changes of one of Arkansas’ most treasured landmarks.
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Birding 101
Friday, September 19, 2025
/ 11 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
Meet a park interpreter to learn the basics of birding then
put your new skills to the test. We will look and listen for birds during a 0.5-mile walk on the Arboretum Trail. Wear sturdy shoes, bring…
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Hikin' for Lichen
Friday, September 19, 2025
/ 1 p.m. - 1:45 p.m.
It covers our trees, rocks, and even buildings-but we seldom notice. Join a park interpreter to witness the hidden vibrance of Petit Jean State Park’s lichens. This is a moderately difficult…
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Pollinators and their 'Buds'
Friday, September 19, 2025
/ 2 p.m. - 2:45 p.m.
Join a park interpreter to learn about the wildflowers and pollinators of Village Creek State Park, then create a take-home paper flower memento. This program is fun for the whole family.
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Don't Tread on Me
Friday, September 19, 2025
/ 2 p.m. - 2:45 p.m.
Jackson County is home to many species of snakes but not all of them are dangerous to humans. In fact, many are helpful! Join a park interpreter to learn how to tell the difference between venomous…
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Let's Go Bigfoot Hunting
Friday, September 19, 2025
/ 2 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Did you know that a mighty big legend has left footprints on the history of Crowley's Ridge? It's true! Before the Boggy Creek Monster of western Arkansas, there was the Wild Man of Crowley's Ridge.…
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Rock House Cave Hike
Friday, September 19, 2025
/ 2 p.m. - 2:45 p.m.
Meet a park interpreter to hike to the park's archeology site, Rock House Cave. We will view American Indian rock art and discover more about the windows into the past that these images provide. This…
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Dip Net Discovery
Friday, September 19, 2025
/ 3:30 p.m. - 4 p.m.
What tiny creatures are hiding in the waters of Lake Frierson? Join a park interpreter in this hands-on activity to discover and discuss the roles of Lake Frierson's macroinvertebrates. Wear clothes…
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Possum Passel
Friday, September 19, 2025
/ 4 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
You've probably seen one squashed on the side of the road, and you might have even driven through the town of Possum Grape, but how much do you really know about these elusive creatures? Join a park…
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Cedar Falls Overlook Stroll
Friday, September 19, 2025
/ 4 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Join a park interpreter for this easy, handicap accessible, 1/4-mile stroll. We will talk about some of the things that make Petit Jean State Park a special place, as well as enjoy the view of Cedar…
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Things You Otter Know!
Friday, September 19, 2025
/ 5 p.m. - 5:45 p.m.
Do otters eat animals that are found in the water? Do they have special adaptations that help them to swim better? Do otters live by the water or further inland? Join a park interpreter to discover…
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Guided Hike: The Eternal Flame
Friday, September 19, 2025
/ 5 p.m. - 6 p.m.
Over 200 years ago, 660 Cherokee walked the Military Road that runs through Village Creek State Park. Join a park interpreter at the Lake Austell boat ramp parking lot as we hike Military Road Trail…
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Summer Serenade: The Frogs of Lake Bailey
Friday, September 19, 2025
/ 6 p.m. - 6:45 p.m.
Every summer evening the lake comes alive with a chorus of frogs! Meet a park interpreter to hear their song and learn the froggy faces behind our summer serenade.
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Sunset Watercolor Painting
Friday, September 19, 2025
/ 7 p.m. - 7:45 p.m.
Water is powerful! From shaping the landscape to shaping the activities we enjoy here, water has the power to shape life at Village Creek State Park. Join a park interpreter outside the visitor center…
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Great Arkansas Cleanup 2025
Saturday, September 20, 2025
/ 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.
The Great Arkansas Cleanup is a state-wide volunteer event sponsored by Keep Arkansas Beautiful. Volunteers are invited to help clean up roadways, and along the railroad tracks. Meet at the museum…
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Cast Iron Connections: Cooking with a Dutch Oven: Breakfast
Saturday, September 20, 2025
/ 8:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
Gather around the fire for a hands-on cooking experience using a traditional Dutch oven. Participants will explore the history of cast iron cooking, learn basic techniques, and help prepare a tasty…
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Echoing Footsteps Hike
Saturday, September 20, 2025
/ 9 a.m. - 10 a.m.
As you walk the Military Road Trail, your footsteps echo the footsteps of the past and the future. Meet a park interpreter to learn the stories, history, and hardships of those who walked the Military…
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Legends of Petit Jean
Saturday, September 20, 2025
/ 9 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.
Petit Jean, a strange and fascinating mountain with many natural wonders, but that isn’t all that is fascinating. Meet a park interpreter to discover some stories surrounding the naming of this…
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