Your Ultimate Guide To Summer Fun In Arkansas

Summer is here! The temperatures are soaring, the kids are out of school, and it's that time of year when you're looking to take that needed vacation or to plan activities that the entire family will enjoy. Am I right? If so, you might be searching for fun things to do this summer in Arkansas. Whether you want to visit your favorite lake or swimming hole, explore your favorite state park, or find that magical destination for a getaway, we've got you covered. Here is our ultimate guide to summer fun in Arkansas, and you're going to love all the cool things on our list. If you're ready for these warm-weather adventures...grab the kids, pack your travel bags, gas up the car, and let's go!

Best Summer Vacation Destinations In Arkansas

Summer is the perfect season to plan a getaway. Luckily, there are lots of summer vacation destinations in Arkansas that guarantee endless adventure. Whether you're searching for a small town to spend a weekend or a state park with tons of amenities, we've found the perfect locations for you.

1. Lakeview

Location: Lakeview, Arkansas

Popularity: Very popular destination for world-class trout fishing.

Need To Know: Tucked along the White River and Bull Shoals Lake.

Home to one of the most underrated state parks in Arkansas, Bull Shoals - White River State Park, Lakeview is a resort town in Arkansas that comes alive during the summer. Nicknamed "paradise of the Ozark," outdoor adventure awaits from fishing, swimming, hiking, kayaking, boating, camping, and more. You can easily spend the entire summer basking in all that this town has to offer.

2. Bismarck

Location: Bismarck, Arkansas

Popularity: Very popular during spring break and into the summer.

Need To Know: Park is known for its resort lodge as well as its golf course.

Not only is Bismarck an island paradise, but it's also the location of the only resort state park in Arkansas - DeGray Lake Resort State Park. Here you can enjoy all the warm weather activities including swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating. The kids will especially love the pool, where they can play all day in the sun.

3. Floating Villa On Lake Ouachita

Location: Royal, Arkansas

Popularity: Very popular in the summer.

Need To Know: Housed at the Crystal Springs Marina Village, the houseboats include a complimentary captain service.

Of course, a trip to Lake Ouachita is a must in summer in Arkansas. But why not take your lake excursion to the next level by renting a houseboat from Wake Zone Luxury Houseboat Rentals? Perfect for a large family or a group of friends, you can spend your warm days wading in the crystal-blue waters on the clearest lake in Arkansas. Or cruise the 40,000-acre and find an island to soak up some rays. This is a bucket-list worthy activity and definitely one of the most fun things to do in Arkansas in summer.

Best Beaches, Lakes & Rivers To Visit In Arkansas This Summer

No summer is complete without spending time soaking up some sun or making a splash in one of the many pristine lakes aka "beaches" in Arkansas. Yes, I know that technically there are no "beaches" in Arkansas, but don't be fooled, there are lakes that rival the Caribbean. Here are several of the beaches and lakes we love. Be sure to pack your sunscreen and make a splash in the best way.

4. Brady Mountain Recreational Area

Location: Royal, Arkansas

Popularity: Very popular beach and campsite on Lake Ouachita.

Need To Know: Peak Season is between May and September. Day-use is also available.

No passport is needed to visit this gorgeous beach at Brady Mountain Recreational Area. As you can see, it's truly an oasis in the sun. I recommend that you book a campsite because one day is not enough on this pretty beach. Plus, there is a marina where you can rent a boat or kayak to spend some time cruising the stunning lake. Leave the kids at home and make this a romantic beach vacation for you and that special someone.

5. Greers Ferry Lake

Location: Heber Springs, Arkansas

Popularity: Extremely popular during the warmer months.

Need To Know: There are several beaches, campsites, and hiking trails at the lake.

Just about an hour north of Little Rock, you'll find one of the prettiest lakes in Arkansas - Greers Ferry Lake. This massive lake is a haven for water enthusiasts. Soak up the sun at Sandy Beach, rent a boat, or enjoy your favorite water sport. There is also cliff diving, scuba diving, and camping. If you're searching for family things to do in Arkansas in summer, you can't go wrong with a trip to Greers Ferry Lake.

6. Buffalo National River Float

Location: Ponca, Arkansas

Popularity: Very popular for kayakers.

Need To Know: Plan your trip with the Buffalo Outdoor Center.

Have you floated on the Buffalo National River? If not, then you must add this fun summer activity to your list this year. There really is nothing like it. At 150-miles long, you'll need several days to explore this gorgeous oasis, where you'll witness the most incredible bluffs in Arkansas. Start planning your by visiting the Buffalo Outdoor Center. It's one of the best rivers to visit in Arkansas this summer.

Parks To Visit In Arkansas This Summer

When it comes to summertime fun, the best parks to visit are obviously...water parks. They are the perfect places to cool off when those temperatures hit ridiculous numbers. From lazy rivers to wave pools, to slides and more, water parks are perfect for a day trip with the family. So, don't forget to add these water parks in Arkansas to your list of summer activities this year.

7. Parrot Island Waterpark

Location: Fort Smith, Arkansas

Popularity: Extremely popular seasonal water park.

Need To Know: Season begins in May and continues through early September. Season or day passes are available for purchase.

There is nothing better than sliding down one of the massive slides at Parrot Island Waterpark. Plus, the lazy river, kid splash zone, surf simulator, and the 85,000-gallon wave pool, make it one of the best places for summertime fun in Arkansas. Adults can relax in a personalized service cabana, while the kids splash around all day. This tropical themed oasis is by far one of the best waterparks in Arkansas.

8. Magic Springs Theme and Water Park

Location: Hot Springs, Arkansas

Popularity: Very Popular during peak season between May and August.

Need To Know: The water and amusement parks are open during peak season, but the schedule changes thereafter. Kids under 3 are free.

Part water park and part amusement park, Magic Springs is the ultimate place for a day trip in Arkansas in summer. You can experience the best of both worlds. Adrenaline junkies will love the high-flying coasters, while folks who prefer a relaxing experience, the lazy river is the place for you. Of course, there are also attractions for the little ones. Moreover, the park also hosts concerts and special events, which are fun for the entire family.

9. Diamond Springs Water Park

Location: Murfreesboro, Arkansas

Popularity: Very popular during the season from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

Need To Know: Typically closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Admission fee varies by age and kids under 5 are free.

Skip digging for diamonds and instead, cool off at Diamond Springs Water Park. Tucked inside Crater of Diamonds State Park, this aquatic park in Arkansas is a must-visit this summer. Boasting a 4,000-square-foot wading pool with sprayers, water jets, animated waterspouts, waterfalls, water slides, and more, tons of fun await. Plus, you can take a break from the water and relax on a lounge chair overlooking the swimming pool. This mining-themed water park in Arkansas will be your new summertime playground.

Best Free Summer Activities In Arkansas

I'm sure you've heard the saying that the "best things in life are free." And while there could be a few nuances with that statement, I truly believe it. Take for instance, you can spend an entire day hiking, fishing, learning, and more, at this free nature center in Arkansas. There are tons of activities that will keep the little ones busy for an entire day, and you won't break the bank. You can't beat that! Keep reading to discover more free summer activities in Arkansas that are great for you and your family.

10. Siloam Springs Kayak Park

Location: Siloam Springs, Arkansas

Popularity: Very popular especially during the summer.

Need To Know: Free admission, but there is a small fee for parking.

Kayaking is almost a rite of passage in Arkansas. There are so many waterways in the state, and best of all, you can access many of them for FREE. That's true for the Siloam Springs Kayak Park. This 700-foot man-made oasis featuring class I and class II rapids is great for expert as well as beginner kayakers. You can also tube or just sit on the shoreline and soak up some warm rays. It's the perfect place for a family-friendly summer adventure in Arkansas.

11. Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area

Location: Rogers, Arkansas

Popularity: Very popular park for mountain biking.

Need To Know: Free admission but there are fees for camping.

As the largest state park in Arkansas, endless adventure awaits inside Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area. If you're searching for free, cheap or family things to do in Arkansas in summer, this is the ideal destination for you. Tucked along the banks of Beaver Lake, you can enjoy swimming, fishing, kayaking, and boating on the serene oasis. With over 50-miles of trails, nature lovers will have lots of room to explore. This summer, bring your mountain bike or your horse and get lost exploring this beautiful natural wonderland for FREE.

12. Kings River Falls Natural Area

Location: Witter, Arkansas

Popularity: Extremely popular waterfall swimming hole.

Need To Know: It can get crowded in the summer, so avoid weekends.

No summer is complete without taking a dip in one of our favorite swimming holes in Arkansas. Kings River Falls is a pretty waterfall with a beautiful emerald pool that's perfect for cooling off on a warm day. And best of all, this favorite pastime activity will not cost you a thing. To get to the oasis, you'll need to trek the 1-mile kid and dog-friendly trail, but the reward at the end is worth every step. Pack lunch as you'll want to spend the entire day enjoying this pretty haven inside the Ozark Mountains.

Best Summer Events And Festivals In Arkansas

We absolutely love summer festivals in Arkansas. Most of them have something for everyone. If you love food, whimsical adventures, rides or anything in between, there is a festival for you. Here are our picks for the best summer festivals in Arkansas that promise loads of warm weather fun.

13. Firefly Fling

Location: Fayetteville, Arkansas

Popularity: Very popular one-day festival that attracts thousands.

Need To Know: There is an admission fee that varies by age and membership. Kids under 2 are free.

A whimsical adventure awaits at the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks. Firefly Fling is a mid-summer festival of fairies and mystical woodland creatures. Costumes are encouraged, so the little ones can let their imaginations soar. Activities include building fairy houses, face painting, fire dancing, a laser light show, and more. Of course, there will be lots of chances for photo ops, so be sure to bring your camera along. This magical event kicks off on July 20 at 5 p.m. so don't miss your chance this year.

14. Tontitown Grape Festival

Location: Springdale, Arkansas

Popularity: Extremely popular long-running festival attended by thousands of folks.

Need To Know: Admission is free, but the carnival rides, spaghetti dinner, as well as other attractions will cost extra.

Stomping grapes, carnival rides, delicious food, and live entertainment, sounds like the perfect day to me. If you agree, then add the Tontitown Grape Festival to your list of fun things to do in Arkansas this summer. The festival is held in Springdale and each year, it promises to be bigger and better than ever. Celebrating its 125th year, this event has become a tradition for many folks in the area. Mark your calendars for August 6-10 and bring the entire family to enjoy one of the longest running festivals in Arkansas. Oh, did I mention that it's free to attend?

15. Arkansas Hot Air Balloon State Championship

Location: Harrison, Arkansas

Popularity: Extremely popular

Need To Know: Admission is free, but some attractions and food will cost extra.

Close out the summer with one of the most epic events this year, the Arkansas Hot Air Balloon State Championship. This free admission event held in Harrison is something that you must witness at least once. Enjoy a balloon race, Balloon Glow, tethered balloon rides, petting zoo, helicopter rides, and so much more. Plan your visit to this end of summer festival between September 13 to 15, it will be a blast for the entire family.

Which adventures will you add to your list this year? Did we miss your favorite summertime attraction? Tell us below.

And if you plan on cruising the highway in Arkansas this summer, be sure to pack the best snacks for your road trip and don't forget your road trip essentials.

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/usa/road-trip-essentials-packing-list/