
Discover Events

Petit Jean State Parks
Arkansas State Parks Calendar of Events
The Hidden Hunt
Friday, August 01, 2025
/ 6:30 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Nature has a secret hidden side, if you are willing to search for it. Meet a park interpreter to go on a scavenger hunt and investigate what you might miss at first glance. This program is great for…
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Arkansas Black Bear
Friday, August 01, 2025
/ 7 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Did you know that Arkansas used to be called the Bear State? Join a park interpreter for a fascinating program on the history and present habitat of bears in Arkansas. This program is full…
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Bat Behavior
Friday, August 01, 2025
/ 7 p.m. - 7:45 p.m.
Bats are some of the most efficient communicators in the animal kingdom! Join a park interpreter at the amphitheater to learn about these fascinating animals and have the chance to see a few.
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Mammal Animals of Petit Jean
Friday, August 01, 2025
/ 7 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
What does the fur of a black bear feel like?
Meet a park interpreter in the historic CCC Room at Mather Lodge to
discover some interesting features about the mammals of Petit Jean State Park.
You…
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Creatures of the Night
Friday, August 01, 2025
/ 7 p.m. - 7:45 p.m.
Lake Dardanelle State Park is home to many creatures. Discover some of Lake Dardanelle State Park’s nocturnal residents. Join a park interpreter at the amphitheater and learn what animals come out…
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Sunset Cruise
Friday, August 01, 2025
/ 7:15 p.m. - 8:15 p.m.
Enjoy a relaxing and scenic cruise on DeGray Lake! Discover the history of the lake, wildlife, view rock outcrops, and unique islands. Seating is limited—reservations can be made beginning…
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Sunset Kayak Cruise
Friday, August 01, 2025
/ 7:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Kayaking on Lake Frierson offers you a link to many different worlds! Join the park interpreter in discovering the stories our lake provides and protects as we rove the coves of Lake…
Heart Healthy
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Night Owl Prowl
Friday, August 01, 2025
/ 8:30 p.m. - 9 p.m.
"Who" wants to join a park interpreter on a quest to talk with our nighttime buddy, the owl? Meet at the amphitheater to learn a few quick interesting points about our feathered friends. Then take a…
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Creepy Crawlies Night Hike
Friday, August 01, 2025
/ 8:45 p.m. - 9:45 p.m.
What creatures can be found lurking around DeGray Lake Resort State Park at night? Join a park interpreter to find out! After diving into the world of creepy crawlies, we will embark on…
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Daybreak Diamond Tour
Saturday, August 02, 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…
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Finding Woody
Saturday, August 02, 2025
/ 9 a.m. - 9:45 a.m.
Join a park interpreter to discover the many woodpeckers that make Petit Jean State Park their home. The program will include a short walk by Lake
Bailey for a chance to see a few. Bring…
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Ozark Chinquapins
Saturday, August 02, 2025
/ 9 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.
Meet a park interpreter and learn the story of the Ozark chinquapin! Find out some interesting facts about this tree, its importance to the region, and see for yourself the restoration efforts…
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A Life Source's Transformation
Saturday, August 02, 2025
/ 9 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.
Lake Fort Smith is a life source that has transformed over the years. Each transformation brought life and challenges to the wildlife and people of the area. Join a park interpreter to…
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Flat Hat Chat: Monument Trails
Saturday, August 02, 2025
/ 9 a.m. - 9:45 a.m.
Join a park interpreter next to our new visitor center at the Lichen Link trailhead and discover the unique network of trails here at Pinnacle Mountain State Park. Plan your path to adventure as we…
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Introduction to Mountain Biking on the Boston Mountain Trail
Saturday, August 02, 2025
/ 10 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Mountain biking is a wonderful way to experience the Boston Mountain Trail. Meet a park interpreter who will cover biking and safety skills that will make your ride a more enjoyable experience. After…
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Pedals and Preparation: The Essentials of Mountain Biking
Saturday, August 02, 2025
/ 10 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Join a park interpreter to learn the basics of mountain biking safety and preparedness. Discover what gear to carry and how to handle common trail challenges. Whether you're new to the sport or need a…
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Diamond Mining 101
Saturday, August 02, 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!
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Archeological Site Tram Tour
Saturday, August 02, 2025
/ 10 a.m. - 11 a.m.
The Plum Bayou Mounds site is
one of the largest and most impressive archeological sites in the Lower Mississippi River
Valley. Occupied
by American
Indians from about 650 to 1050 AD, this site is…
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State Park Explorers: Discover, Protect, and Connect
Saturday, August 02, 2025
/ 10 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Join the park interpreter on a fun-filled adventure to become a State Park Explorer! This interactive program is designed for kids ages 6–14 to explore what state parks are, learn how to stay safe,…
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Dixie's Home Front
Saturday, August 02, 2025
/ 10 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
With their fathers, brothers, and husbands gone off to fight in the Civil War, Southern women had to do not only their own housework, but learn to take on the jobs of their male relatives, too! Join a…
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