People Live Their Whole Lives in Arkansas and Somehow Miss These 6 Places

There are so many fun and interesting things to do in Arkansas. The Natural State is full of adventure, beauty, history, art, culture, and so much more - and because of that, it's almost impossible to run out of things to see and experience. Many of these amazing things are well-known to both residents and visitors alike, but there are also quite a few hidden gems that even some of the most thorough explorers miss.

Here, we've put a list together of some that you may have overlooked on your past adventures that we think are well worth your while. Read on to learn about these must visit places in Arkansas, and start to get ready for your next road trip.

1. Van Buren, Arkansas

Van Buren, Arkansas, is the first spot on our list, and it's the only entire Arkansas small town that we included on it. It's the home of about 24,000 people today, but it's best known for its historic and well-preserved downtown area that everyone just loves. On Main Street, visitors will find six blocks of restored and protected buildings that are now shops, restaurants, galleries, and so much more. You'll love exploring this small town and all of its historic charm.

2. Hobbs State Park

Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area is Arkansas' largest state park at over 12,000 square acres, but somehow, some people still overlook this beautiful, serene, and magical place. The park includes 36 miles of trails for hiking, campgrounds, and a visitor center, plus ample opportunities for boating, hunting, horseback riding, and mountain biking. This park is in the northwestern corner of the state and has so much to offer to people who love the great outdoors.

3. White Oak Lake State Park

If you're looking for another fantastic state park in Arkansas, but one that is in the southwestern part of the state, then you'll love White Oak Lake State Park. It's on a large reservoir that was completed in 1961. The reservoir is surrounded by lush trees on all sides and the forest is home to abundant wildlife. People love visiting White Oak Lake for hiking and camping, but it's especially popular with anglers. The reservoir is full of bass, crappie, catfish, and bream. The park is relatively quiet as it's a bit off the beaten path for most tourists. You'll love it.

4. Arkansas Post National Memorial

Arkansas Post National Memorial is located at the confluence of two rivers on the southeastern site of the state. It was the site of the first European settlement located along the Mississippi River when a trading post was first established in 1686. Visitors to this site can learn a lot about Arkansas history in the visitor center and the museum, and can also enjoy hiking trails and picnic areas on the shores of the beautiful oxbow lake that exists at the site today.

5. Thorncrown Chapel

People visiting Eureka Springs should make an effort to visit the breathtaking Thorncrown Chapel. This chapel in the woods was completed in 1980 and millions of people have visited it since, but it's still unknown to many. It's a structure made of wood, as many chapels are, but what is most striking about it is the fact that it contains 425 windows and over 6,000 square feet of glass. Anyone who steps inside can enjoy the beauty of this chapel and of the forest that surrounds it all at once. It was designed by E. Fay Jones, an apprentice of Frank Lloyd Wright.

6. Plum Bayou Mounds State Park

If you're interested in and intrigued by archeological sites and history, then you'll love Plum Bayou Mounds Archeological State Park in the near center of the state. This site, formerly known as Toltec Mounds, is one of four National Historic Landmarks in Arkansas, and you'll find 18 tall, broad, prehistoric mounds on the property. These mounds served as a gathering places for feasts, rituals, and seasonal celebrations. Some mounds used for burials, feasting, and were aligned astronomically to track seasons.  Anyone who enjoys learning about the mysteries of the distant past will love this unusual historical area.

Each and every one of these places is worth a visit in the coming year! You'll be amazed by their history and beauty, and you're sure to enjoy an adventure to a place you've never visited before. Have a great trip!

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.