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 state parks in Arkansas and explore all that they have to offer on this Arkansas road trip.

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.
Google Maps
Use this interactive map to add more stops to your trip.

Day 1: Mount Magazine State Park

Mount Magazine State Park, 577 Lodge Dr, Paris, AR 72855, USA
Krishna Sathvik Mantripragada/Google Reviews
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.
You can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, or an ATV ride.
marilyn shannon / Google Reviews
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 lookout points. Because this mountain is the highest elevation in Arkansas, we suggest that you hike the Signal Hill Trail to experience it for yourself.
Adrian Lopez/Google Reviews
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.
Lily Golden/Google Reviews
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!

Day 2: Petit Jean State Park

Petit Jean State Park, 1285 Petit Jean Mountain Rd, Morrilton, AR 72110, USA
Antele Sanlas/Google Reviews
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.

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Petit Jean boasts endless hiking trails and epic waterfalls. In fact, it is home to one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Arkansas.
Teresa Lynn Stauffer-Gasperson-Presser/Google Reviews
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 is exploring the Seven Hollows enchanted forest 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.
Charles Haley / Google Reviews
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.
Brandon Hoult/Google Reviews
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.
CrazyKatLady/Google Reviews
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.

Day 3: DeGray Lake Resort State Park

DeGray Lake State Park Resort, 2027 State Park Entrance Rd, Bismarck, AR 71929, USA
DeGray Lake Resort / Facebook
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.
Enjoy a day of water skiing, snorkeling, kayaking, and swimming, or you can simply relax on the beach.
DeGray Lake Resort / Facebook
This road trip in Arkansas is a must-do!
And when you’re done, end your evening at the DeGray Lake Resort reliving the adventures of this epic road trip, while you watch the sun go down.
DeGray Lake Resort / Facebook

This three-day road trip is family-friendly, but plan ahead and decide what trails and activities suit your family the best. You can also make your reservations at each of the lodges inside the parks for a hassle-free getaway.

So, are you ready for this epic weekend road trip to enjoy some of the best state parks in Arkansas? Tell us in the comment what adventures you will choose or include.

Looking for more great road trips in Arkansas? Try one of these 11 Arkansas road trips on your next vacation!

11 Unforgettable Road Trips To Take In Arkansas Before You Die

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More to Explore

Road Trip In Arkansas

Megan McDonald | April 21, 2023

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. However, 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 Arkansas state parks or 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. One of our favorite ways to travel is by renting an RV from a place like RVShare. It gives you more room and a little more comfort for long drives.

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