Home to more than 60,000 acres of lakes, 90,000 miles of rivers and streams, plus incredible rock formations and rugged cliffs reaching higher than 2,500 feet above sea level, Arkansas is a treasure trove of wonder. From digging for diamonds to hydrobiking, we've identified six unique experiences just waiting to be explored!
But if you've already experienced some of the Natural State's signature parks like Pinnacle Mountain and Devil's Den, and you're looking for something a little bit different, these Arkansas State Parks are for you!
6 Unique Activities to Experience in Arkansas State Parks
Arkansas State Parks offer incredible natural beauty, unique activities, exquisite stays and more. We hope you’ll indulge in the joy of experiencing something new-to-you!
Scuba Dive or Snorkel at Lake Ouachita State Park
Did you know that you can go scuba diving in the land-locked state of Arkansas? We didn't either until we discovered Lake Ouachita State Park!
Lake Ouachita is Arkansas' largest lake (40,000 acres) and one of the cleanest in the country, making it a fantastic place to scuba dive and snorkel. You'll also find the clear water lakes at Degray Lake Resort State Park and Cossatot River State Park-Natural Area in Arkansas to be ideal for swimming, snorkeling and diving, too!
Relax in Style at Moro Bay State Park
Not everyone wants to "rough it" to experience the tranquility and peacefulness of nature—and that's okay! Take a break from the modern world in style by booking a stay at one of Moro Bay State Park's sleek and cozy cabins.
Each spacious, warmly lit cabin offers guests two bedrooms, two baths and a kitchen. But it's the screened-in decks and outdoor living areas with excellent views of Moro Bay that provide the respite we could all use a little bit more of!
Try Hydrobiking at Millwood or Woolly Hollow State Parks
You've spent countless hours on kayaks and canoes, but have you tried hydro biking yet? Well, at two Arkansas State Parks you can rent HydroBikes for a fun and unique way of exploring area waters.
Millwood State Park gives hydro bikers access to the 29,260-acre Millwood Lake. Or explore the peaceful and serene 40-acre Lake Bennett at Woolly Hollow State Park to try out these playful devices!
View Stunning Arkansas Rock Formation in Daisy State Park
Daisy State Park is a nature lover's paradise located on Lake Greeson
and the Little Missouri River in Arkansas' Ouachita Mountains!
Taking one of the park's incredible lake tours affords you a truly unique view of the stunning rock formations that aren’t visible from land. Anyone interested in geology would find great delight in this Arkansas State Park!
Explore Native American History at Parkin Archeological State Park
Although the Trail of Tears spans nine states, Arkansas was the only state to witness the removal of all five southeast Native American tribes.
At Parkin Archeological State Park, you’ll have the opportunity to explore Native American history up close. This 17-acre park preserves a Native American village beginning somewhere between A.D. 1000 to 1550. Ranger-led programs and a thorough visitor center with detailed exhibits is an excellent place to learn more about early civilizations in the area.
Dig for Diamonds at Crater of Diamonds State Park
We simply couldn't leave diamond digging at Crater of Diamonds State Park off this list of unique ways to experience Arkansas State Parks—especially since the "finders keepers" rule applies at this diamond-bearing volcanic crater!
Try your luck at diamond digging in a 37.5-acre plowed field where people have discovered diamonds of all shapes, sizes and colors. It's estimated that more than 600 diamonds are found here each year!
Unforgettable Experiences in Arkansas State Parks
A visit to any of Arkansas State Parks is sure to leave you with unforgettable experiences. Whether it's the state's natural beauty, rich history or exciting recreation opportunities that intrigue you, you'll surely be planning your next visit before you even get home!
To capture all of your unforgettable moments in real time, be sure to bring an Arkansas State Parks Bucket Journal. Record your experiences and use your journal to plan an even better trip for the next time around!
What is your all-time favorite thing to do or experience in Arkansas State Parks?
