
Discover Events

Petit Jean State Parks
Arkansas State Parks Calendar of Events
Morning Kayak Tour
Monday, May 26, 2025
/ 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Join Park Superintendent Nathan on one of the most beautiful morning views of Lake Greeson and the Ouachita Mountains. Bring clothing and shoes that can get wet. Kayaks are limited; sign-up in person…
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A Beneficial Benefield Hike
Monday, May 26, 2025
/ 10 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Experience the benefits of hiking outdoors on historic Benefield Trail. Breathtaking views can be expected on this hike. Seasonally appropriate attire, drinking water, sturdy hiking shoes,…
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Lake Cruise
Monday, May 26, 2025
/ 10 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Explore the wonders of Lake Dardanelle and the Arkansas River aboard the state park tour boat (weather permitting). Enjoy abundant wildlife, amazing history, and astounding views of the river valley…
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Regurgitation Station
Monday, May 26, 2025
/ 10 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Many meat-eating birds, like owls, have an interesting way of dealing with unwanted parts of their food. Meet a park interpreter to dissect owl pellets, figure out what owls are eating, and learn…
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Cherokee Games
Monday, May 26, 2025
/ 11 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
Have you ever wondered about the daily lives of the Cherokee who inhabited this area before the Trail of Tears, long before it was a park? Meet a park interpreter in the grassy area across from the…
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Geocaching Island Hopper
Monday, May 26, 2025
/ 1 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Whether you are a diehard geocacher or completely new to the activity, this excursion is sure to satisfy your craving for adventure! With GPS units/smartphones in hand, we will travel by…
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Nature Journals
Monday, May 26, 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…
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Wonder House Tour
Monday, May 26, 2025
/ 2 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
What is the Wonder House? It’s not only a place, but also an experience. Listed on the National Registry of Historic Places, the Wonder House takes us back in time almost 100 years.…
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Catch of the Day
Monday, May 26, 2025
/ 2 p.m. - 2:45 p.m.
Thanks to the healthy fishery of Lake Dardanelle, you can experience the thrill of nature and the success of the catch. Join a park interpreter in the grassy area across from the visitor center…
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Sensory Grab Bag
Monday, May 26, 2025
/ 2:30 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Can you identify
items in nature? Join Park Interpreter Kara to discover just how well you may
know nature by using just your sense of touch!
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Smelly Skunks
Monday, May 26, 2025
/ 3:30 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Why do skunks smell bad to some people? What
is the reason they spray? Learn the answers to these questions and more by
joining Park Interpreter Kara as we discuss one smelly animal, the…
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Slithering Snakes
Monday, May 26, 2025
/ 4 p.m. - 5 p.m.
There is no such thing as a “bad snake.” Join a park interpreter to find out more about the six venomous snake species in Arkansas and what to do if you ever find yourself in a dangerous situation…
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Reptilian Riddles
Monday, May 26, 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…
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Chinquapin Chat
Tuesday, May 27, 2025
/ 9 a.m. - 9:45 a.m.
Join a park interpreter at the Ozark Chinquapin Grove, located along the Caddo Bend Service Road, to explore our nursery of young trees being reintroduced to Lake Ouachita State Park. Learn about the…
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Morning Breeze Cruise
Tuesday, May 27, 2025
/ 9 a.m. - 10 a.m.
Smooth water, cool morning air, breathtaking views – these are but a few of the many alluring qualities of DeGray Lake in the morning. Beat the heat on this refreshing and relaxing cruise of the lake…
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ADA Hike on the Van Winkle Trail
Tuesday, May 27, 2025
/ 10 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Why is there a state park
here? Join a park interpreter for a story-telling adventure about how this place
came to be Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area. Discover one of the most
influential spots in…
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What's for Lunch
Tuesday, May 27, 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…
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Scenic Lake Tour
Tuesday, May 27, 2025
/ 2 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Lake Ouachita's immense size, pristine shoreline, and numerous islands offer breathtaking scenery that is unparalleled in the state. Enjoy a tour with a park interpreter as you explore the wildlife,…
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Intro to Stand Up Paddleboarding
Tuesday, May 27, 2025
/ 2 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Stand up paddleboarding is one of the fastest-growing recreational sports. Arkansas is a natural fit for the sport with an abundance of clean, clear lakes and rivers around the state. Join a park…
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Morning Kayak Tour
Wednesday, May 28, 2025
/ 9 a.m. - 11 a.m.
No previous paddling experience is necessary. Hands down, one of the best ways to enjoy the lake is from inside a kayak, paddling along the shoreline, exploring quiet coves. Sign up early…
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