With an incredible amount of outdoor attractions, Arkansas has something for travelers of all ages
By McCartney Walsh
Arkansas, known as the Natural State, is a haven for nature enthusiasts. From serene lakes and beaches to diverse wildlife and breathtaking mountains, the state offers countless opportunities to reconnect with the natural world and rediscover oneself.
Arkansas encompasses a variety of unique ecosystems, providing something for every type of traveler seeking an escape from the daily grind. In Arkansas, where the four elements coexist harmoniously, explorers can immerse themselves in nature and find the element that resonates with their own natural state.
Experiencing Arkansas Mountains
For those drawn to heights and adventure, the Ozark Mountains offer an exhilarating experience. The Ozark Mountain Range, part of the Ozark National Forest, spans 1.2 million acres across four states, with Arkansas being the most prominent. Here, travelers can soar through the air, climbing mountains, biking through rugged terrains, and experiencing life from new heights.
Mountain biking in the Ozarks caters to all skill levels, from leisurely rides on flat roads to thrilling descents along natural pathways. The Slaughter Pen Trail in Bentonville, Arkansas, offers over 40 miles of single-track mountain bike trails, blending natural features with man-made obstacles. Another popular biking destination is the Blowing Springs Loop, accessible through the Slaughter Pen Trails. This six-mile loop takes riders through caves and provides refreshing bursts of cool air, with a highlight being a 30-foot bridge that allows riders to catch air as they descend.
Rock climbing is another exciting way to connect with Arkansas’s natural state. The state’s unique sandstone formations, particularly at Sam’s Throne Recreation Area, offer a perfect playground for climbers. With more than 300 routes, climbers can scale flat-sided mountains and enjoy panoramic views of the landscape. Horseshoe Canyon Ranch in Jasper is another renowned destination for recreational biking and climbing, with additional activities such as zip-lining. After a day of adventure, visitors can rest in cozy log cabin-style cottages.
Peaceful Outdoor Destinations in Arkansas
For those seeking a deeper connection with the earth, Arkansas provides numerous opportunities for grounding and reflection. Walking beneath towering tree canopies, meditating in peaceful surroundings, practicing yoga in forest centers, or exploring botanical gardens all allow for serene realignment with the earth.
The Open Air Meditation Sanctuary in Eureka Springs is a unique destination that helps visitors decompress and learn about the earth. This 10-acre wilderness sanctuary offers self-guided walks, peaceful sitting meditations, and even guided meditations and yoga classes. With 14 specified meditation areas along a one-mile trail, visitors can explore at their own pace.
Hiking is a popular activity throughout Arkansas, with options for all skill levels. Devil’s Den State Park in Northwestern Arkansas is an iconic hiking spot. The park features beautifully crafted structures that complement the natural surroundings, as well as stunning rock formations, caverns, and an eight-acre crystal lake. Accommodations include cabins, campsites and camper cabins, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the flourishing forest.
Water Activities in Arkansas
Water activities also play a significant role in connecting with Arkansas’s natural state. With 23 state parks situated on lakes and rivers, visitors can canoe, swim and enjoy the tranquil beauty of water. Lake Catherine State Park, for example, offers a serene waterfall where visitors can swim, kayak, and relax in natural springs. The sound of waves and the crisp water enveloping one’s senses create a sense of calm and relaxation. For those seeking more adventurous water experiences, white-water rafting on the Cossatot River in Cossatot River State Park provides thrilling fun for expert rafters and families alike.
Finally, the element of fire, or heat, combines with water to provide a unique experience in Arkansas. Hot Springs National Park is a prominent destination for travelers seeking relaxation. The park’s naturally heated water, produced at a rate of almost 1 million gallons per day, offers a never-ending spa experience. The warm, mineral-rich waters, sourced deep within the earth, provide healing properties. Bathhouses throughout the park allow visitors to soak in the rejuvenating hot springs, and there are even spouts in the city where visitors can taste the water straight from the source.
Arkansas’s untouched beauty showcases its natural state, without the need for man-made industrialization. When immersed in the wonders of the Natural State, the four elements come together harmoniously, allowing travelers from all walks of life to connect with and discover their own natural state.
Arkansas is full of great destinations for outdoor sports, tournaments and different activities, so be sure to Download the Arkansas Guide for FREE and Subscribe to Sports Planning Guide
