
Discover Events

Petit Jean State Parks
Arkansas State Parks Calendar of Events
Dip Net Discovery (Shoreline by Marina)
Monday, July 07, 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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Cane Pole Fishing
Monday, July 07, 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.
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Scenic Lake Cruise
Monday, July 07, 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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Morning Kayak Tour
Tuesday, July 08, 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, July 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!
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Journey of a Water Drop
Tuesday, July 08, 2025
/ 10 a.m. - 10:30 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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Drops In The Bucket
Tuesday, July 08, 2025
/ 10:30 a.m. - 10:45 a.m.
Join us for the family-friendly "Drops In the Bucket" program, inspired by Project WET! Through fun, interactive activities, learn about water conservation and the significance of Lake Ouachita.…
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Diamond Mining 101
Tuesday, July 08, 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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Soaring Scavengers
Tuesday, July 08, 2025
/ 2 p.m. - 2:45 p.m.
A bird? A plane? No, it’s a vulture! Join a park interpreter to look for and learn about these intriguing birds while picking up litter on this easy, 1-mile guided walk along the Island…
Heart Healthy
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Scenic Lake Tour
Tuesday, July 08, 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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Kayak Koving
Wednesday, July 09, 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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Swim and Cruise Lake Tour
Wednesday, July 09, 2025
/ 2 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Enjoy a relaxing and scenic cruise on DeGray Lake before beating the heat and taking a dip in its refreshing water! We will cruise the lake for the first half of the tour taking in the beautiful…
Heart Healthy
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Swim Cruise
Wednesday, July 09, 2025
/ 2 p.m. - 4 p.m.
There's no better way to cool off on a hot summer day than jumping into the cool, crisp waters of Lake Ouachita! Join a park interpreter to go out on a boat and find a perfect place go…
Heart Healthy
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Sunset Cruise
Wednesday, July 09, 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…
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Spider Sniffing Night Hike
Wednesday, July 09, 2025
/ 9 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Bring a flashlight and a friend because we’re going to be sniffing for spiders! Join a park interpreter to unravel the web of lies about these fascinating creatures while searching for them…
Heart Healthy
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Birding Walk
Thursday, July 10, 2025
/ 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.
Bring your binoculars and rise with the birds for an early birding stroll! Join a park interpreter and identify common species of birds at Cossatot River State Park and sharpen your birding skills.…
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Morning Breeze Cruise
Thursday, July 10, 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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Diamond Mining 101
Thursday, July 10, 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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Hands-On History: Limestone, Ammonites and Sandstone
Thursday, July 10, 2025
/ 10 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Do you know what a trilobite is? What about an ammonite? And what does it have to do with oil? Come to the museum and learn the answers to these questions as we learn why there is oil in south…
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Knot Knowledge
Thursday, July 10, 2025
/ 10:30 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Whether you are setting up a camp shelter, tying up your boat, or preparing a fishing lure, knowing how to tie knots is important. Come by to learn a few that will meet your needs during a weekend at…
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