Arkansas State Parks 21 in 2021 Challenge: Our Top 5 Picks
We made it! Our 21 Arkansas State Parks in 2021 Challenge is officially complete! There are so many remarkable things to see and experience in the parks, it is hard to take it all in. Each state park is unique in its own distinct way. We have decided to try to narrow down a few of our favorites to share with you. Let’s see if you are surprised with our list. Our list is based on only the parks we visited in 2021 and the different activities we experienced.
#5 Lake Dardanelle State Park
Although Morgan will argue and say that this is her #1 state park, Lake Dardanelle makes our #5 spot on the list. The park is beautiful for camping, hiking, and boating. The visitor center is unique with its many aquariums, live bees to watch, and even has turtles to touch. We had to stop here twice because Morgan loves to see and hold the turtles. We also give the staff of this park our Friendliest Park Staff award.
#4 Lake Fort Smith State Park
We are partial to this park because it is our local state park. We visit this one frequently and yet we still experience something new on each and every trip. The hiking and boating here is outstanding. The park is clean and well kept. We especially love the picnic and playground area. It is fun to watch fishermen drive by in their boats while you are enjoying a picnic in this park. The guided boat tours of the lake are fun and informative for the whole family.
#3 Petit Jean State Park
Our favorite park for hiking is Petit Jean. There are so many amazing trails here you will not be able to do everything in a day. It has a brand-new visitor center for 2021 that is very interactive and fun. Be sure to pick up a trail map inside too. Our favorite trail to hike is the Cedar Falls trail. This one has an amazing view of a 98-foot waterfall.
#2 Arkansas Museum of Natural Resources
This is truly a hidden gem of Arkansas. Inside the visitor center of this park, you will find a replica of what the town would have looked like in the 1920s during the Southern Arkansas oil boom. You will also find a tinkering studio for the kids where they can make their own crafts, or you can join in a scheduled activity with park interpreter to make your own crayons. The park consists of both indoor and outdoor exhibits so weather will not impact your visit.
#1 Queen Wilhelmina State Park
Our #1 spot in the 21 in 2021 Arkansas State Parks Challenge goes to Queen Wilhelmina State Park! This park had something for everyone. The Lodge is amazing with its cleanliness and comfort and is located literally in the clouds. You will enjoy a variety of different foods at the Queen’s Restaurant. From pancakes to steaks they have it all. The number of activities here is amazing too. Morgan loves the playground, miniature train ride, mini golf, and hiking. This park is also close to Wolf Pen Gap ATV trails so you can bring along your ATV for an enjoyable day trip. You will have to trailer in to the ATV trails, but it is well worth the trip.
Final Thoughts
Each state park is unique. Whether it’s hiking, biking, boating, or camping the Arkansas State Parks offer fun for all. We hope you learn as much as we did when you visit the parks for yourself. Please keep in mind that our list is only based on the 21 parks that we visited last year. We have not visited all the amazing 52 state parks that Arkansas has to offer. Do you agree with our list? Leave us a comment below.
If you are ready to start your own challenge for 2022 be sure and pick up an Arkansas State Parks Passport to start marking off your list today. Missed the first part of the challenge? Be sure and start here: 21 Arkansas State parks in 2021 Challenge . Remember… Life’s Short… Take the Trip!
Ready to start planning your own adventure? We are happy to help book lodging and activities around any Arkansas State Park. Email us at: amberh@destinationsinflorida.com
