It’s no secret that Arkansas is filled with natural beauty. From the enchanting Ozark National Forest to the beautiful Ouachita Mountains to the flatlands of the Delta region, the gorgeous terrain is endless. And within these areas are some of the most incredible scenic byways that are the gateways to our next adventure. Deep inside Arkansas’ Delta, you’ll find one of those byways and it’s the Crowley’s Ridge Parkway. As one of America’s designated scenic byways, the drive along Crowley Ridge is almost as beautiful as the state park sharing its name. Gas up the car and let’s explore this scenic drive in Arkansas to witness all the beauty that lies within.  

Crowley’s Ridge is a natural phenomenon in the Arkansas Delta. It was formed millions of years ago from erosion caused by the channels of the Great Mississippi River and the Ohio River.
scenic drive in Arkansas
Federal Highway Administration, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
The crescent-shaped formation stretches for 200 miles from Malden, Missouri to Helena, Arkansas.
The 300+ foot ridge stands out amongst the flatlands of the Delta, making it one of the most recognizable natural wonders in the state.
Crowley’s Ridge Parkway
AA A/Google
Crowley’s Ridge State Park is located along the ridge in Paragould. And the scenic drive along Crowley’s Ridge Parkway is one that will entice all nature lovers.
Alicia Winstead/Google
Beyond that, there are also 5 additional state parks along the parkway, as well as one national forest, lakes, natural areas, and more. Making this byway a popular route for folks seeking adventure.
From the southern end of Crowley’s Ridge Parkway, the picturesque drive begins in Helena Arkansas, and will take you through the St. Francis National Forest.
Arkansas State Tourism

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The drive through the forest is beautiful throughout the year, but the Fall offers vibrant hues that will sing to your soul.
Arkansas State Tourism
The Spring and Summer months feature gorgeous wildflowers, some of which are only found in that region of the state.
At approximately 120 miles to get to the park, you’ll have plenty of time to bask in all the natural beauty of the region.
Arkansas State Tourism/Facebook
You’ll meander through heavy forested areas, cruise over rolling hills, as well as through the flatlands of the Delta.
Once you arrive at Crowley's Ridge State Park, you’ll be greeted with more welcoming scenes of nature. There are 2 lakes, picnic areas, along with campsites for all your recreational pleasures.
Tom Petty/Google
In addition, hiking, fishing, kayaking, and swimming, are just a few of the fun activities that await.
Crowley's Ridge Parkway
Arkansas State Parks
With multiple terrains, a network of highways, and lots of recreational opportunities along the way, this scenic drive in Arkansas is one that you must experience for yourself.

Come along for this scenic drive through Crowley’s Ridge State Park filmed by YouTuber Cojack Bullies.

So, have you ever driven along Crowley’s Ridge Parkway or been to the state park? If so, tell us about your experience in the comments below. For more information about the park, visit Crowley’s Ridge State Park’s website. Also, to read more about the scenic byway, visit the Arkansas State Tourism webpage.

If you would like to grab a bite to eat while in Paragould, here’s a restaurant that serves the best burgers in the Arkansas Delta. Wanna extend your trip to the area? If you do, check out these vacation rentals near Paragould that are great for an overnight stay

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More to Explore

CROWLEY’S RIDGE & RELATED INFO

Melanie J. | August 22, 2023

What are some more scenic drives in Arkansas?
If you’ve searched for scenic drives near me, then you have come to the right place. There are lots of scenic drives in Arkansas and these are the ones I like the best:

  • Pig Trail Scenic Byway
  • Boston Mountains Scenic Loop
  • Talimena Scenic Byway
  • Jasper Disaster
  • Mount Magazine Scenic Byway
  • National Scenic 7 Byway
  • Greers Ferry Loop to Pinnacle Mountain
  • Sylamore Scenic Byway
  • Ozark Highlands Scenic Byway
  • Great River Road National Scenic Byway


Be sure to read this previous article telling you more about these scenic drives in Arkansas.

What are the best state parks in Arkansas?
There are 52 state parks in Arkansas and while they are all worthy of a visit, these are the ones that I would recommend:


Check out this previous article highlighting some more of the best state parks in Arkansas.

What are the best hiking trails in Arkansas?
When it comes to spending time in the great outdoors, there are endless hiking trails in Arkansas for you to explore. Here are 10 of the best hiking trails in Arkansas that belong on your bucket list:

  • Hawksbill Crag/Whitaker Point, Kingston
  • Lost Valley Trailhead, Kingston
  • Centerpoint to Goat Trail, Ponca
  • Bear Cave Trail, Morrilton
  • Hemmed-In Hollow Falls Trail, Compton
  • Pinnacle Mountain West Summit Trail, Little Rock
  • Pedestal Rocks & Kings Bluff Trailhead, Sand Gap
  • Alum Cove Natural Bridge Recreation Area, Deer
  • White Rock Rim Trail, 214 Bowles Gap Rd, Winslow
  • Signal Hill Trail, Paris


Don’t forget to read our previous article telling you more about these hiking trails in Arkansas.

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Featured Addresses
Crowley's Ridge State Park, 2092 AR-168 North, Paragould, AR 72450, USA