Arkansas has about 50 state and national parks. That's why we're called the Natural State. With all these parks, it's almost impossible to visit every one. Each one offers something special. These are, in my opinion, the can't miss parks in Arkansas.
1. Mount Magazine; Paris
Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism
Arkansas has so many pretty areas, it's hard to say which is the "prettiest" but Mount Magazine does have amazing views. You can view the Arkansas River Valley from heights of 2,753 feet. It's breathtaking. The park is located on Scenic Highway 309 approximately 17 miles south of Paris and boasts the highest summit in Arkansas.
2. Hot Springs
Amanda Galiano
The former home of the 42nd President has a great National Park. You can see the warm springs bubbling from the grounds as you walk along the beautiful Hot Springs National Forest trails.
3. Crater of Diamonds; Murfreesboro
Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism
You can search this 36-acre field for diamonds. This is the only site in the world where individuals can search for diamonds and keep any they find. The park is open everyday and it's fun for kids and parents alike. The park is two miles southeast of Murfreesboro on Ark. 301.
4. Pinnacle Mountain; Roland
Amanda Galiano
Pinnacle Mountain makes a great day trip for those of us living in the urban jungle of Little Rock. It's just a short trip from Little Rock but the difference is striking. Pinnacle is especially beautiful in the fall and spring. To reach Pinnacle Mountain State Park, take Exit #9 off I-430 at Little Rock and travel seven miles west on Ark. 10, then go two miles north on Ark. 300.
5. Petit Jean; Morrilton
Amanda Galiano
The thing that stands out in my mind about Petit Jean is Cedar Creek and the 95-foot waterfall which flows from it. It's a very peaceful place to hike through and reflect. You can also find forests, canyons, streams, meadows and mountainsides. Take Exit #108 off I-40 at Morrilton and travel nine miles south on Ark. 9, then go 12 miles west on Ark. 154; or from Dardanelle, travel seven miles south on Ark. 7, then go 16 miles east on Ark. 154 to the park.
6. Devil's Den; West Fork
Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism
Devils Den is perfect for the spelunker in us all. Here, you'll find lots of little caverns and coves for you to investigate. You can find beautiful hiking trials, an 8 acre lake and beautiful forests as well. To reach the park, travel eight miles south of Fayetteville on I-540 to Exit #53 (West Fork), then go 17 miles southwest on Ark. 170; or I-540 at Exit #45 (Winslow) and go 7 miles west on Ark. 74.
