
Discover Events

Petit Jean State Parks
Arkansas State Parks Calendar of Events
Make a Paracord Handle for Your Walking Stick
Monday, October 06, 2025
/ 9 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.
Adding a paracord handle to your walking stick can provide a more comfortable grip as well as an effective way of carrying cordage that could be used in an emergency situation. Meet a park interpreter…
Read more
Diamond Mining 101
Monday, October 06, 2025
/ 10 a.m. - 10:15 a.m.
Meet a park interpreter in the Diamond Discovery Center to learn the tricks of the trade at this demonstration of diamond searching methods!
Read more
Mighty Eagles
Monday, October 06, 2025
/ 11 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
The symbol of our nation comes in the form of a mighty bird; the eagle, but even the mighty can fall. Meet a park interpreter to learn the amazing story of resilience of the mighty eagle and how you…
Read more
Discovering Nature Journals
Monday, October 06, 2025
/ 11:30 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Preserve your memories and experiences in the great outdoors in a journal. Meet a park interpreter outside the Lake Center to make your own journal and learn some outdoor journaling…
Read more
Nature Journals
Monday, October 06, 2025
/ 2 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
There is a lot to explore at Crater of Diamonds State Park! Whether you are an entry level rock hound or are a wildflower wanderer, a nature journal can help you document your finds. Meet in the…
Read more
Cane Pole Fishing
Monday, October 06, 2025
/ 2 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Fishing is a great pastime. Too often, though, people get caught up in the gadgets rather than the sport. Come out and learn to fish “old school.” Poles and bait will be provided.
Read more
Constellation Can Lanterns
Monday, October 06, 2025
/ 2 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Surrounded by forest, Mississippi River State Park is perfect for viewing the night sky. Join a park interpreter to create your very own night sky lantern! Participants are encouraged to bring their…
Read more
Birding 101
Monday, October 06, 2025
/ 3 p.m. - 3:45 p.m.
Meet a park interpreter to learn about the different species of birds found at Woolly Hollow State Park. Together we will learn common species, practice listening for calls, take a short walk to spot…
Read more
Knot Navigator
Tuesday, October 07, 2025
/ 10 a.m. - 10:45 a.m.
From tying your shoes to tying your boat so it doesn't float away, knots are necessary! Join a park interpreter to learn how to tie different types of knots. Appropriate for all ages.
Read more
Diamond Mining 101
Tuesday, October 07, 2025
/ 10 a.m. - 10:15 a.m.
Meet a park interpreter in the Diamond Discovery Center to learn the tricks of the trade at this demonstration of diamond searching methods!
Read more
Fish Feeding
Tuesday, October 07, 2025
/ 11 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Come see the fish feast! It is very entertaining and quite interesting to watch the feeding habits of fish, like a bass striking at a worm or minnow. Gather around the fish tanks and enjoy the show.
Read more
What's for Lunch
Tuesday, October 07, 2025
/ 11:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.
We have 8,000 gallons of aquariums, filled with many of the fish species found in Lake Dardanelle. Join park staff in the visitor center as they feed the fish live food. See for yourself, what’s for…
Read more
Diamond Mining 101
Tuesday, October 07, 2025
/ 1:30 p.m. - 1:45 p.m.
Meet a park interpreter in the Diamond Discovery Center to learn the tricks of the trade at this demonstration of diamond searching methods!
Read more
Reptilian Riddles
Tuesday, October 07, 2025
/ 4 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Many creatures call Lake Dardanelle State Park home. Many of these amazing creatures are reptiles. Join a park interpreter in the visitor center Orientation Room to discover some of the things that…
Read more
Daybreak Diamond Tour
Wednesday, October 08, 2025
/ 8:30 a.m. - 9 a.m.
Join a park interpreter in the Diamond Discovery Center, lower level to walk through the search area and learn about the best places to search for diamonds. Along the way, you’ll hear stories of past…
Heart Healthy
Read more

Burn Smart, Leave No Mark
Wednesday, October 08, 2025
/ 10 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
Campfires can warm the night and cook our meals, but they can also scar the land for years. Join a park interpreter for a guided activity about how to enjoy fire sustainably and responsibly. From…
Read more
Diamond Mining 101
Wednesday, October 08, 2025
/ 10 a.m. - 10:15 a.m.
Meet a park interpreter in the Diamond Discovery Center to learn the tricks of the trade at this demonstration of diamond searching methods!
Read more
Spinning and Lace Making Demonstration
Wednesday, October 08, 2025
/ 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
In this special showcase, local spinners will share how they craft fibers into yarn and lacemakers will exhibit the creation of handmade laces. They welcome all interested visitors to join them for an…
Read more
Ouachita Watercolors
Wednesday, October 08, 2025
/ 2 p.m. - 2:45 p.m.
Throughout time, water holds power at Lake Ouachita State Park! Discover the history and importance of Lake Ouachita and its powerful water by joining a park interpreter during this lakeside…
Read more
Exploration Station: Bird Beaks
Thursday, October 09, 2025
/ 9 a.m. - 10 a.m.
Have you ever wondered why a hummingbird’s beak is different from a hawk’s? Discover how different birds have beaks adapted for their unique diets. At the end, you will have the option to try the…
Read more