
Discover Events

Petit Jean State Parks
Arkansas State Parks Calendar of Events
Dip Net Discovery (Shoreline by Marina)
Monday, June 23, 2025
/ 9 a.m. - 9:45 a.m.
What tiny fish and other creatures are hiding in the waters of DeGray Lake? This is your chance to find out and discuss the role of these elusive wonders. Meet a park interpreter for this hands-on…
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Regurgitation Station
Monday, June 23, 2025
/ 11 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Are you inquisitive and brave? If so, try to stomach this fascinating, hands-on activity. We’ll search for clues to solve the mystery of an owl’s last supper by dissecting an owl pellet. All…
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Scenic Lake Cruise
Monday, June 23, 2025
/ 2 p.m. - 3 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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Knot Navigator
Tuesday, June 24, 2025
/ 9 a.m. - 9:45 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.
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Morning Kayak Tour
Tuesday, June 24, 2025
/ 9 a.m. - 11 a.m.
No previous paddling experience is necessary. Hands down, one of the best ways to enjoy the morning on DeGray Lake is paddling along the shoreline, exploring quiet coves Sign up early…
Heart Healthy
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Diamond Mining 101
Tuesday, June 24, 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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Snakes of Arkansas
Tuesday, June 24, 2025
/ 10:15 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Calling all snake sleuths! Arkansas is home to a diverse population of snake species. Join a park interpreter in the Ouachita Room to discover the importance of snakes, hone your…
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Diamond Mining 101
Tuesday, June 24, 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!
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Scenic Lake Tour
Tuesday, June 24, 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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Disc Golf Crash Course
Tuesday, June 24, 2025
/ 2 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Join a park interpreter to receive a crash course in this sport that is sweeping across the nation, from city parks to college campuses. You will learn the basics and then put them to…
Heart Healthy
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Wild Wednesdays: Compasses
Wednesday, June 25, 2025
/ 10 a.m. - 11 a.m.
A compass can make your outdoor adventure safer, but only if you know how to use it. Join the park interpreter to learn the basics of compass use and see how fast you can get through the compass…
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Kayak Koving
Wednesday, June 25, 2025
/ 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Kayaking gives you the opportunity to interact with Lake Ouachita in a fun and engaging way. Join a park interpreter as we paddle out to explore nearby coves. Kayaks, paddles and…
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Diamond Mining 101
Wednesday, June 25, 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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Snorkeling
Wednesday, June 25, 2025
/ 2 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Join a park interpreter to explore Lake Ouachita in a new way. We will boat out to an island or shoreline in the lake and snorkel around the island shore to see what lies beneath the water's…
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Prospector Trail Guided Hike
Wednesday, June 25, 2025
/ 2 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Join a park interpreter at the Prospector trailhead, on the northwest side of the diamond search area, and experience Crater of Diamonds State Park like miners and geologists of the past!…
Heart Healthy
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Dutch Oven Outdoor Cooking Dessert
Wednesday, June 25, 2025
/ 3 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
People say that food cooked outdoors tastes better, and it’s true! You’ll have a chance to observe a Dutch oven cooking demonstration, learn how to season and care for cast iron, and taste some…
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New Moon Island Stargazing
Wednesday, June 25, 2025
/ 8 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Tonight marks a new moon, and that means it will be dark, very dark – perfect for stargazing! We will boat out to a remote island and disembark for some stargazing on the beach, far from city lights…
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Daybreak Diamond Tour
Thursday, June 26, 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
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Kayak Tour
Thursday, June 26, 2025
/ 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Float the Cossatot River with park interpreters as your guides! This 6-hour day trip will take you down the calmest section of the Cossatot River within the park. Kayak, lifejacket and shuttle…
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Journey of a Water Drop
Thursday, June 26, 2025
/ 9 a.m. - 9:45 a.m.
Join us as we explore the incredible adventure of a water droplet, from its humble beginnings to its grand destination. Through engaging activities and hands-on experiments, participants will learn…
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