Spend Three Days In Three State Parks On This Weekend Road Trip In Arkansas
It is no accident that Arkansas is known as the Natural State. It’s the state in the Ozarks with endless natural wonders that appeal to all outdoor enthusiasts. We have some of the best state parks in the country, and they are all worthy of a weekend road trip. But for now, we will only visit three of these parks and explore all that they have to offer on this road trip in Arkansas.
Let’s begin our road trip with some adventure at Mount Magazine State Park, and end it by relaxing at DeGray Lake State Park.
Though the road trip is short, consisting of only 150 miles and 3 hours of drive time, it will be packed with epic adventures.
Let’s kick this road trip in Arkansas off at the state park with the highest elevation in Arkansas. Mount Magazine is an outdoor adventure enthusiast's dream come true. Though it’s impossible to do everything in one day, there are tons of adventures to choose from.
Mount Magazine State Park, 577 Lodge Dr, Paris, AR 72855, USA
You can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, horseback or ATV riding.
But for the more adventurous at heart, we suggest rock climbing or hang gliding at the designated points in the park. Information for these extreme sports can be found at the visitor center, where you must register before you can proceed. There are tons of things to do in Arkansas at all of the stops on this road trip!
In addition to the activities, the mountain boasts spectacular views from various look out points. Because this mountain is the highest elevation in Arkansas, we suggest that you hike the Signal Hill Trail to experience it for yourself.
It’s one of the best parts of this road trip in Arkansas.
After a day packed with fun, you’ll be ready for some food and rest. Thankfully, the Lodge at Mount Magazine with Skycrest Restaurant is inside the park.
The views are stunning, and the food is delicious - this is a great way to end this adventurous day. Make this a weekend trip in Arkansas and kick back and relax!
Now that you are well rested, let’s continue on the second leg of our journey. Head east to Petit Jean State Park. This is Arkansas’ first state park, so it makes sense to include it on our road trip in Arkansas.
Petit Jean State Park, 1285 Petit Jean Mountain Rd, Morrilton, AR 72110, USA
Petit Jean boasts endless hiking trails and epic waterfalls. In fact, it is home to one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Arkansas.
Between the trails, waterfalls, bluffs, "caves", and canyons, you could be in this park for multiple days. But here’s what we suggest for the best adventure. One of our favorite things to do in Arkansas for sure!
Enjoy the scenic drive to the different overlooks, you’ll have time to explore a few of them. You can bask in views of nearby mountain ranges, rivers, valleys, canyons, and more.
This road trip in Arkansas takes you through some of the prettiest parts of the state.
From there, hike the 4.5-mile Seven Hollows Trail and the .25-mile Rock House Cave trail. You’ll see remnants of Native American writing and spectacular rock formations.
Of course, the Cedar Falls Trail is a must-see so that you can witness Cedar Falls. This 95-foot continuously flowing waterfall is one of the most breathtaking falls in Arkansas.
After all that hiking, you won’t have to go far to eat and rest. Spend the night at Mather Lodge inside the park and enjoy stunning views, while you have dinner at the restaurant.
After two days of strenuous activities, let’s relax a bit. Head south to DeGray Lake Resort State Park and spend time in this paradise oasis. This resort boasts world-class amenities and it has a restaurant on-site. The perfect destination to wrap up this three-day weekend trip.
DeGray Lake State Park Resort, 2027 State Park Entrance Rd, Bismarck, AR 71929, USA
Enjoy a day of water-skiing, snorkeling, kayaking, swimming, or you can simply relax on the beach.
This three-day road trip is family-friendly, but plan ahead and decide what trails and activities suit your family the best. Also, do make your reservations at each of the lodges inside the parks.
So, are you ready for this epic weekend road trip in Arkansas? Tell us in the comment what adventures you will choose or include.
Looking for more great road trips? Try one of these 11 Arkansas Road Trips on your next vacation!
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
Address: Mount Magazine State Park, 577 Lodge Dr, Paris, AR 72855, USA
Address: Petit Jean State Park, 1285 Petit Jean Mountain Rd, Morrilton, AR 72110, USA
Address: DeGray Lake State Park Resort, 2027 State Park Entrance Rd, Bismarck, AR 71929, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Road Trip In Arkansas
April 21, 2023
Megan McDonald
What are the most scenic drives in Arkansas?
Arkansas is a state of natural beauty and diversity, with plenty of scenic drives that will take your breath away. From winding mountain roads to rolling farmland and picturesque small towns, there's something for everyone.
Here are some of the most stunning drives in Arkansas:
Pig Trail Scenic Byway - This 19-mile stretch takes you through the Ozark National Forest and offers stunning views of waterfalls, rock formations, and rugged terrain.
Talimena Scenic Drive - This 54-mile route runs along the crest of Rich Mountain and Winding Stair Mountain in western Arkansas, with panoramic views of rolling hills, forests, and valleys.
Great River Road National Scenic Byway - This route follows the Mississippi River in eastern Arkansas, taking you through charming small towns, historic sites, and vast stretches of farmland.
Scenic 7 Byway - This 290-mile route starts in the Ozark Mountains and runs south through the Ouachita Mountains, offering breathtaking views of forests, lakes, and rivers along the way.
Mount Magazine Scenic Byway - This 22-mile drive takes you through the highest point in Arkansas, with stunning views of the Arkansas River Valley and the Ouachita Mountains.
Boston Mountains Scenic Loop - This 188-mile drive takes you through the Boston Mountains region of the Ozarks, with stunning vistas of rolling hills and forests.
Crowley's Ridge Parkway - This 198-mile route runs through the Delta region of eastern Arkansas, taking you through charming small towns and rich farmland.
How long does it take to drive through Arkansas?
On average, it takes 5-6 hours to drive through Arkansas. But the time it takes you to drive through Arkansas can vary depending on a few factors. Are you planning to make any stops to check out some of the state's stunning natural attractions, like Hot Springs National Park or the Ozark Mountains? Or are you on a mission to get from point A to point B as quickly as possible?
Assuming you're driving straight through, Arkansas is about 280 miles long from east to west and typically takes around 5-6 hours to traverse. Of course, this can vary depending on your route, the time of day, and the traffic conditions you encounter.
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