
Discover Events

Petit Jean State Parks
Arkansas State Parks Calendar of Events
Hiking through the Legacy of the CCC
Friday, August 22, 2025
/ 10 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Join a park
interpreter to walk in the footsteps of the Civilian Conservation Corps, where
hard work and craftsmanship created a park that is seamless with the landscape.
This is an easy 1/4-mile hike…
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The Past Beneath Our Feet on the Monument Trails
Friday, August 22, 2025
/ 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Join a park interpreter for an engaging journey through time as you explore the Monument Trails. This 1-mile out-and-back hike highlights how our Monument Trail names tie back into our rich history.…
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Life After Death on the Monument Trails
Friday, August 22, 2025
/ 12:30 p.m. - 1:15 p.m.
Discover the secret life of the forest on a 0.25-mile moderate hike along the Monument Trails. Led by a park interpreter, this scenic loop reveals how dead trees still nourish wildlife, shelter…
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B.A.R.K. Ranger
Friday, August 22, 2025
/ 1 p.m. - 1:45 p.m.
Calling all dog parents! Join a park interpreter in learning what it takes to be a B.A.R.K Ranger on this guided 1-mile hike. Then stick around to get your fur-baby certified as a Devil's Den State…
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Hidden in Plain Sight Hike
Friday, August 22, 2025
/ 1 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Every trail tells a story, but it is not always obvious. On this guided hike of Signal Hill Loop, we’ll search for hidden clues in the natural and cultural landmarks – and connect with the land along…
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A Better Campfire
Friday, August 22, 2025
/ 2 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
You can build a better campfire. Whether at the campsite or an emergency situation, fire starting is a valuable skill. Meet a park interpreter and discover various methods of starting a fire and…
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Bats vs. Moths
Friday, August 22, 2025
/ 2:30 p.m. - 3 p.m.
How do bats catch something as small as a moth at night? How do moths try to avoid getting eaten by bats? Join a park interpreter to learn all about it and play a game of bats vs. moths.
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Slithering Snakes
Friday, August 22, 2025
/ 3 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Discover how to tell the difference between a venomous and non-venomous snake. Then don't miss out on the chance to meet some of our snake residents here at Lake Dardanelle State Park.
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Drawn to Nature
Friday, August 22, 2025
/ 3 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
You can draw some memories at Mount Magazine State Park! Try to guess native animals based on clues given by Park Interpreter Alex. All materials included. Suggested for children ages 5-12.…
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From Spark to Flame: Fire-Building Basics
Friday, August 22, 2025
/ 3:30 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Join a park interpreter to learn the essentials of campfire building, including the importance of tinder, kindling, and proper structure. Whether you're new to fire-starting or looking to refine your…
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Devil's Den Softball
Friday, August 22, 2025
/ 4 p.m. - 5 p.m.
Everyone is invited to join the park interpreters for softball. Come be a part of this living legacy! We have gloves, bats, and balls, but we need you for a game!
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Kayak Demo
Friday, August 22, 2025
/ 4 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Ever wanted to try your hand at kayaking, but didn’t want to run out and buy a boat? Here is your chance to test a boat. Join a park interpreter at the kayak beach and you will get a chance to paddle…
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Meet a Critter
Friday, August 22, 2025
/ 4 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
There are many animals that live in Lake Fort Smith State Park. Stop by the visitor center Exhibit Room where a park interpreter has a critter for you to meet up close!
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Mountain Songs at the Amphitheater
Friday, August 22, 2025
/ 5 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Join a park interpreter and enjoy one of the most beautiful views in Arkansas, as well as a few original guitar songs that highlight some of the wonderful natural and cultural resources you might…
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Wetland Safari
Friday, August 22, 2025
/ 7 p.m. - 7:45 p.m.
Lake Dardanelle State Park’s diverse habitat is home to a wide variety of creatures. Join a park interpreter at the amphitheater to explore some of the players in this vital ecosystem.
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Sunset Kayak Tour
Friday, August 22, 2025
/ 7 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Spend the evening paddling on Beaver Lake while
guided by a park interpreter. We will learn the basics of paddling and enjoy
the sunset on the lake. Meet at the visitor center and then caravan to
the…
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Legends by Lantern Light
Friday, August 22, 2025
/ 8 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Passing on stories under a starry sky is a time old tradition, not just
for campers, but also for the early settlers of the area. Join a park interpreter to hear to some silly legends from around the…
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Hiking Tips: Are You Ready?
Saturday, August 23, 2025
/ 9 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.
Are you prepared for your hike at Lake Fort Smith State Park? Do you have the equipment and skills necessary for a fun and safe hike? Meet a park interpreter to discover more about…
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Cherokee Games
Saturday, August 23, 2025
/ 9 a.m. - 9:45 a.m.
Have you ever wondered about the daily lives of the Cherokee who inhabited this area before removal, long before this area was a park? Meet a park interpreter in the grassy area across from the…
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Woodland Wander on Devil's Race Track
Saturday, August 23, 2025
/ 9:30 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Join a park interpreter and wander along the Monument trails to search for a variety of wildlife and plants. This hike is 2-miles in length, please wear sturdy shoes, bring water, and don't forget…
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