Arkansas is a southern state near the Mississippi River. It is populated with an eclectic mix of people and possesses an understated beauty that’s not usually shouted about but offers truly wonderful landscapes.
The natural scenery here consists of deep forests crisscrossed with empty roads, granite outcrops, hot springs, deep caverns, quickly flowing rivers, extraordinary vistas, and a portion of the now-famous (thanks, Netflix!) Ozarks. From fairytale churches to beautiful lake resorts, here are my favorite spots in the state.
1. Hawksbill Crag Hiking Trail
This gem is located deep into Ozark National Park! Whitaker Point, or Hawksbill Crag, is known for a large rock outcrop that resembles a hawk’s bill. Featured in many Disney movies, this spiky outcrop offers an incredible natural view. The iconic hike will take at least half a day between hiking and sightseeing.
The relatively easy and popular hike takes roughly two hours to reach. You’ll encounter small waterfalls, vast fauna, and flora on this scenic trail. Once you get the summit, you’ll witness the magnificent beauty of nature.
Here, you can enjoy the tranquil serenity and behold the ever-changing colors of the Instagrammble sunset! However, I suggest being very cautious while approaching the steep edge.
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2. Buffalo River
This spot is wow-inducing! The Buffalo River is the first-ever designated National River of the United States. This unpolluted and free-flowing river has three distinct wilderness areas managed by the Ozark National Park Service. The Roark Bluff trail is a relatively easy hike with a beautiful waterfall.
In the Upper Buffalo Wilderness lies the stunning wet-weather waterfalls Hemmed-in-hollow Falls and Bower Falls, which Ozark National Forest envelops.
Plenty of activities are available here, including kayaking the Buffalo River in the Ponca wilderness area, float trips, viewing wildlife spotting, rock climbing, cave tours and hiking. I would say that swimming isn’t always safe here, though.
3. Buffalo National River
In northern Arkansas, the wild Buffalo National River stretches against the backdrop of the lush Ozark Mountains. Designated the first National River in the U.S. in 1972, the area played a pioneering role in the American Civil War.
Flowing across 153 miles, the lower 135 miles of this free-flowing water comes under the supervision of the National Park. Home to various wild animals, I would also recommend exploring the caverns and giant rock formations by hiking, camping and canoeing.
4. Arkansas Grand Canyon
Yes, Arkansas has a Grand Canyon, too! This Natural State Canyon offers scenic views from which to gaze at the stunning views. The Arkansas Grand Canyon is a beautiful stop-off a few miles from Jasper.
There’s also a lookout tower where you can climb to the top and watch the serene mountains and valleys. The early bird can see this gorge’s most stunning views, so I suggest timing your trip well!
5. Catherine’s at Bell Gable in Fayetteville
Located in Fayetteville, at the base of the Ozark Mountains, this gothic chapel beside the cascading waterfall is something couples looking for an intimate wedding venue. The panoramic landscape, native stone, and beautiful nearby waterwheel, the chapel speaks for itself.
The scenery and the beautiful church will remind you of Great Britain. Enjoy the Barn and lush green surroundings with reverence. In my opinion, this breathtaking wedding locale makes a perfect setting for a small, dreamy fairy-tale wedding or just a wonderful visit!
6. Ozark Highlands Scenic Byway
Drive to the countryside with the beautiful Ozark Mountains at every winding turn and the Buffalo River gushing below. This is a seriously stunning road trip.
This iconic trail is available for scenic driving throughout the year. A truly “Highlands route” it takes you to the heart of Buffalo River where you can camp or canoe.
With colorful flora, rugged terrains, and abundant wildlife, this highway has panoramic views and scenic surprises!
7. Hot Springs National Park
This is a gorgeous spot located at the north end of Hot Springs! Hot Springs National Park was launched 188 years ago and is entirely devoted to hot springs. Bubbling with hot springs, this park takes you back to a different era.
The historic bathhouses are the best place to soak. I also recommend climbing the Hot Springs Mountain Tower for a wider view of the surrounding towering mountains!
8. Ozark Mountains
First up is the “Magic City” of Eureka Springs, known for its natural springs, which are supposed to aid health.
The winding streets and walkways, Victorian architecture, and natural beauty make it an incredible tourist destination. In the nearby hills lies the architectural marvel made with wood and glass, the Thorncrown Chapel.
A scenic drive along the Boston Mountains of the Ozarks will take you to the backwoods. Also, the serene Lake Fort Smith lies in the valley of the Boston Mountain Range in the state park. I personally think this is a fantastic place for campers and hikers!
9. Hamilton Lake
Hamilton Lake is one of the most popular recreational and residential lakes, covering 8,000 acres. There are plenty of things to do around Hamilton Lake, including skiing, jet skiing, recreational boating, and other water sports.
Along the eastern end of the lake lies the Garvan Woodland Gardens. Renowned for Anthony Chapel, striking trails, and beautiful peacocks, these beautiful gardens are easily accessible by boat or motor vehicle.
I believe this lake is a peaceful place to spend time or take a wonderful vacation.
10. Devil’s Den State Park
Set against the lush Boston Mountains and Lee Creek Valley, this state icon became a park in the 1930s. Devil’s Den State Park features rock formations, caverns, and wet-weather waterfalls, and the lake is ideal for hiking, backpacking, and cycling.
The trails will lead you to the most popular attractions, Devil’s Den Cave and Twin Falls. Devil Den Lake is spread across eight acres and flanked by the beautiful Ozark National Forest.
11. Ozark–St. Francis National Forest
This beautiful protected forest covers a huge amount of acres (1.2 million, to be precise!). It’s mainly in the Ozark Mountains in the North of the state. It’s a very popular place to camp and hike, and the tallest mountain—Mount Magazine—is located here.
Another attraction is the fantastic Blanchard Springs Caverns in the Ozark—St. Francis National Forest attracts thousands of tourists each year.
Discovered in 1955 by Roger Bottoms, the remains of prehistoric Native Americans dated thousand years old were found in the cave. Over the years, the caverns have been growing and changing.
I highly recommend going on a guided tour to watch the moving water still carving through the cave and the enticing formations of stalactites and stalagmites!
12. Petit Jean State Park
Located in the north of the state, just to the west of Conway, Petit Jean State Park’s campground is undoubtedly the best in the state. The park’s name comes from a mystic tale.
A young French woman in the 18th century disguised herself as a young lad and joined her lover in the exploration journey of unsettled land. Due to her petite frame, she was given the nickname “Petit Jean” or “Little John” by the crew members.
To date, her grave lies on the top of Petit Jean Mountain. In addition to the scenic beauty, the park is home to many cave formations, canyons, lakes, and the eye-catching Cedar Falls, so I highly recommend exploring as many as you can!
13. Mount Magazine State Park
At the peak of Mount Magazine, the highest point in the state, experience the sweeping views of the broad valleys and timeless natural beauty.
This plateau is a remnant of an ancient seafloor. Mount Magazine is rich in natural resources and home to many endangered species.
The location of the park has everything to offer visitors and explorers including rock climbing, hiking, hang-gliding, rappelling, scenic outlooks, and much more, Mount Magazine draws extreme adventurists from all over the country.
14. DeGray Lake Resort State Park
Another popular camping destination is the stunning DeGray Lake Resort State Park. Located on DeGray Lake off the Caddo River, overlooking the beautiful Ouachita Mountains, this place is a gem!
Visitors can hike, camp, and use the excellent recreational facilities beside the lakeshore and shady woodland sites.
This destination gives you much-needed leisure away from the hustle and bustle. The lake Resort has hiking trails, guided horseback and biking trails, boat rentals, and much more.
15. Ouachita National Recreation Trail
This rough and rugged trail extends 223 miles through the Ouachita Mountains of Arkansas and Oklahoma. Ouachita National Recreation Trail is the longest backpacking trail amidst the Ouachita National Forest, spanning 192 miles.
Throughout the trail, you’ll find many road crossings and access points, making planning your trip easy. While the hikers love the rugged landscapes, nature lovers can enjoy the tranquil scenery!
16. The Old Mill, Little Rock
This is a charming and romantic place to spend the day and enjoy the peaceful scenery! You might recognize it as the location for the opening scenes of the classic Gone with the Wind movie.
Unsurprisingly, this location is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a popular venue for weddings and photoshoots.
This 19th-century-style mill is open every day from 8 a.m. until sunset. Guided tours, which last about 30 minutes, are also available for ten or more people and are located in the T.R. Pugh Memorial Park at the corner of Fairway Avenue and Lakeshore Drive in North Little Rock.
