
Discover Events

Petit Jean State Parks
Arkansas State Parks Calendar of Events
Discovery Hike (Dogwood Trail)
Thursday, June 05, 2025
/ 9 a.m. - 9:45 a.m.
The
Ouachita National Forest provides a protective zone for wildlife around the
lake. Meet a park interpreter at the Dogwood trailhead to take a guided 1/2-mile
hike and discover the…
Heart Healthy
Read more

Nature Journals
Thursday, June 05, 2025
/ 10 a.m. - 10:45 a.m.
Join a park interpreter to make your very own nature journal. Take this keepsake with you and use it to record your future experiences in nature! All materials provided. Appropriate for all…
Read more
Edible Insects (Amphitheater)
Thursday, June 05, 2025
/ 11 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
In other parts of the world, eating insects is considered a delicacy! Today, a park interpreter will test your notion of who really eats bugs and who doesn’t. Are you brave enough to join…
Read more
Diamond Mining 101
Thursday, June 05, 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
Snorkeling Adventure
Thursday, June 05, 2025
/ 1:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Sign up early for this water adventure! We'll boat out to the main river channel or even an island and snorkel along the shoreline in search of fish, rocks, plants, and more! Masks, fins, and snorkels…
Read more
Scenic Lake Tour
Thursday, June 05, 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,…
Read more
Sunset Cruise
Thursday, June 05, 2025
/ 7:30 p.m. - 8:30 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…
Read more
Pop Can Fishing
Friday, June 06, 2025
/ 9 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.
Forgot your fishing pole? No problem! Join a park interpreter to discover an innovative way to fish on a whim. All you will need to bring is a soda can, and we will show you the rest. Drinks can be…
Read more
The Life of a Fish
Friday, June 06, 2025
/ 10 a.m. - 10:45 a.m.
Join a park interpreter to discover the life cycle of Cossatot River fish from egg to adult. Learn about common species in the river and leave with your own fish life cycle craft!
Read more
Bank Fishing
Friday, June 06, 2025
/ 10 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Itchin’ to go fishin’? Join a park interpreter at the shoreline to practice your fishing skills and unearth the ecological importance of riparian zones. If you have your own fishing pole,…
Read more
Diamond Mining 101
Friday, June 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
Cane Pole Fishing
Friday, June 06, 2025
/ 11 a.m. - 12 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
Casting Contest
Friday, June 06, 2025
/ 11:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.
When it comes to fishing at Lake Ouachita State Park, practice makes perfect! Join a park interpreter to discover the diverse gamefish species found in Lake Ouachita while practicing your casting…
Read more
Fishing Information Table
Friday, June 06, 2025
/ 1 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Stop by the falls to get information and handouts all about the fish of Cossatot River and how you can enjoy Free Fishing Weekend 2025 at the park! This is a come and go station.
Read more
Diamond Mining 101
Friday, June 06, 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
Furry Facts
Friday, June 06, 2025
/ 1:30 p.m. - 2 p.m.
How well do you know the mammals that inhabit Queen Wilhelmina State Park? Join a park interpreter and find out a few furry facts!
Read more
Know Your Knots-Go Fishing!
Friday, June 06, 2025
/ 3 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Have you ever lost a fish off your line because the hook slipped the knot? Tying a good knot helps all anglers to have the best fishing experience in Lake Ouachita. Come join a park interpreter to…
Read more
Unraveling Animal Myths
Friday, June 06, 2025
/ 4 p.m. - 5 p.m.
Have you ever been told that juvenile snakes are more venomous than adult snakes? Or has your mother ever told you that you are blind as a bat? Join a park interpreter to discuss the…
Read more
S'mores Meet and Greet Campfire
Friday, June 06, 2025
/ 7 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Join Park Superintendent Nathan and other park staff at the main pavilion area for a warm fire provided with marshmallows for s'mores for park guests to gather around and talk about the exciting…
Read more
Slithering Snakes
Friday, June 06, 2025
/ 7 p.m. - 8 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…
Read more