The Plum Bayou Mounds site is one of the largest and most impressive archeological sites in the Lower Mississippi River Valley. Occupied by American Indians from about 650 to 1050 AD, this site is home to a group of ancient earthworks that once made up a large ceremonial site. Visitors will join a
<p> Pottery is one of the oldest human inventions, predating the wheel and even writing! Pieces of broken pottery help us understand more about the prehistoric American Indians who once lived in this area. Join a park interpreter to discover the importance of pottery to early peoples. You will also</p>
Join a park interpreter as we learn more about one of our favorite mammals in the park, the fox! We will discover some of our state’s history relating to foxes, discover some of their unique characteristics and traits, and try to figure out why they are seen as mischievous creatures.
<p>Join a park interpreter for a guided hike along the Boy Scout Trail to learn why the forest puts on its spectacular autumn show. We will meet at the Rock House Cave parking area. This 2-mile hike is about 1.5 hours long. Discover the science behind changing leaves and meet the trees that give Petit</p>
Experience a primitive camp, as well as some of the survival skills used by Arkansas pioneers. Watch a variety of demonstrations including muzzleloading rifles, tomahawk throwing and more! Co-sponsored by the Early Arkansas Reenactors Association. Contact the park for a schedule.<br>
Falling leaves don’t
just disappear, they fuel the forest. Join us to uncover how soil, fungi,
insects, and other recyclers turn autumn’s leaf litter into next spring’s
growth. Join a park interpreter at the demonstration area behind the
visitor center for this short 30-minute program.
Join a park interpreter for a special nighttime hiking experience at the Bear Cave Trail parking area. This ½-mile hike will include taking a look around for the exciting night life of Petit Jean State Park. Please bring along a flashlight and water and wear a sturdy pair of shoes. This hike will
Start your morning
with movement and mountain views! Meet a park interpreter at Richter
Overlook and take a short, refreshing walk along Red Bluff Drive to the CCC
Overlook, where we’ll pause for gentle stretches to greet the sun in the
Arkansas River Valley and over Petit Jean Mountain. Bring
Drop by the breezeway at Mather Lodge and take on the Autumn Adventure Quest! Pick up a quest card and complete fun seasonal challenges—like spotting fall leaves, discovering wildlife clues, and solving park riddles. This come-and-go activity is perfect for families and adventurers of all ages. Once
Meet a park interpreter at the amphitheater to discover more about the nocturnal birds of prey called owls that make Petit Jean State Park their home. Before the evening is over, we will invite a few owls to come in for a visit. Please bring a flashlight if you have one. This program will last