Do we have any Arkansians here?

19 days ago

I'm interested in exploring the state more -particularly nature, and particularly around water. ie. lakes, streams, rivers, waterfalls. But I always like to combine that exploration with some interesting little towns.

Where should I start? I've only ever driven through AR, so I have no experience with Hot Springs, which I've heard people rave about. I recently read about Petit Jean State Park, which looks gorgeous. I'm looking for lake names, town names, hiking areas, etc. that people love.

Thanks in advance!

Featured Answer

mojomom2022

19 days ago

last modified: 19 days ago

I’m a native Arkansan although now in Colorado. . I’ll post more later and happy to answer any questions. The areas you mentioned are in the Ouachita mountains n the west central part of the state. IMO, I’d skip Hot Springs and Lake Hamilton, but lLake Ouachita is great and Petit Jean is very nice as is Mount Magazine. The Ouachitas are beautiul but check out the Ozarks in the northern and northwest part of the state - even better. Definately put Eureka Springs on your list - really cute little town. If you are in NW Arkansas check out Chrystal Bridges while you are there. Beaver Lake is nice too as is Table Rock (more in southern Missouri). Depending on the time of year, canoe the Buffalo River — there are some great stretches suitable for novices and great scenery. If you are up for something a bit more adventurous the Mulberry River or Big Piney.

Waterfalls of Arkansas

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Comments (6)

Bestyears
Original Author
19 days ago
last modified: 19 days ago
Thank you so mich Mojomom -that's exactly the type of info I was hoping to get.

Two additional questions: which areas of the state are alligator free?
1. Many lakes here in the Houston area have gators and while it doesn't bother lots of people, I'm uncomfortable in those.
2. Also, is there a part of the state that might be a bit cooler than other areas in the summer months?
Off to explore your ideas now....
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mojomom2022
19 days ago
No alligators in the Ozarks and I don’t think any in the Ouachitas. We do have a few alligators in the southern part of the state. It will be cooler in the Ozarks in the NW part of the state. Still gets pretty warm in July and August. May or June are best for warm, but not hot, weather. April is also usually great weather.
bpath
19 days ago
There are alligators in Arkansas? Who knew!
Still trailing
19 days ago
Fort Smith is wonderful and the State Park has beautiful trails and the cabins are so comfortable with fireplaces.

Sylamore Trail. See below. I did this 50k. Lots of rivers . And yes they are wet water crossings lol. They tied a rope across so we wouldn’t get swept away. Definitely memorable as it was an out and back.

Sylamore Trail 50K: Located at Angler's White River Resort in Allison, AR (~55 miles northeast of Clinton). Scheduled for February 13, 2027. This popular out-and-back trail course includes scenic views and wet water crossings. (Registration opens November 1, 2026)

Arkansas is really beautiful. c
bbstx
18 days ago
I’m not an Arkansan (note ”Arkansan”), but I would second most of @mojomom2022’s first post. Mount Magazine has a lovely lodge on top of the mountain. Food is mediocre. BYOS (bring your own steak and cook it at your cabin)

I have rafted the Big Piney. If you stay in the US Forestry Service campground be prepared for cold showers. 🥶

Crystal Bridges is a fabulous art museum funded by Walton money. I need to go back and see the Frank Lloyd Wright house that has been constructed on the museum campus.

Garvan Gardens (part of the UofA) in Hot Springs is especially beautiful at tulip time. Have a purple milk shake at The Purple Cow (my grandchildren love it). Otherwise, I’m not a Hot Springs fan.

Then there is the Diamond Mine. Crater of Diamonds State Park. I’ve never been, but I’ve heard it can be fun… and it’s ”finders keepers.”

Table Rock - also good golfing.

If you make it to Eureka Springs, be sure to see Thorncrown Chapel - mostly glass and just a few miles outside Eureka Springs. It was designed by Fay Jones. He also designed the chapel at Garvan Gardens in Hot Springs.