Page 3 - Explore Arkansas 2020

SUNDAY, JUNE 28, 2020 • ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT TO THE ARKANSAS DEMOCRAT-GAZETTE EXPLOREARKANSAS 3P PICK YOUR PARK: Follow the flowchart to find scenery, activity
One of the best ways to experience the outdoor glory that earned
The Natural State its nickname is by visiting an Arkansas State Park. There are 52 parks to choose from. While some feature rugged trails
teeming with wildlife, others are known for their history or fun activities. The following flowchart guides readers to just a handful of parks. A full list is available at arkansasstateparks.com.
novice
Do you have a stroller or a wheelchair?
RATE YOUR OUTDOOR ABILITIES!
yes
Do you prefer science or history?
no
Mountains or lake?
Five or fewer
Hiking or paddling?
More than five
Are you traveling with children?
no
yes
Do you like fishing?
no
no
science
South
Arkansas
Arboretum
Preserving the plants and animals native to the Arkansas
West Gulf Coastal Plain, the South Arkansas Arboretum in El Dorado offers year-round beauty. Two miles of paved trails guide visitors past the butterfly garden and through a range of habitats that feature gorgeous flowers and trees.
Petit Jean
State Park
Those who visit Petit Jean State Park in Morrilton can expect gorgeous scenery at every turn. Petit Jean’s gravesite provides a stunning view of the Arkansas River, while trails ranging from easy to strenuous lead hikers to incredible rock formations, a natural bridge, Cedar Falls and more.
HISTORy
Woods or rivers?
yes Were you
in the Boy Scouts
Louisiana Purchase State Park
An outdoor history lesson awaits those who visit Louisiana Purchase State Park in Brinkley. The park’s barrier-free boardwalk leads visitors to the spot where the survey of the Louisiana Purchase Territory began in 1815. On the trail, visitors can check out wildlife habitats and wayside exhibits.
Mount Nebo and
Lake Dardanelle
Panoramic views from the summit of Mount Nebo are just one reason to visit the state park near Russellville, which also offers trails, recreational amenities and a hang-gliding launch site. Boaters and anglers can check out neighboring Lake Dardanelle State Park, which is home to bald eagles during the winter.
or Girl Scouts?
mountain
lake
hiking
paddling
both
both
woods rivers
DeGray Lake Resort State Park
There is no shortage of activities at DeGray Lake Resort State Park in Bismarck, which offers a championship golf course, hiking and mountain- biking trails, guided horseback riding and other recreational amenities. The lake itself provides swimming, fishing, boating and other water sports.
Pinnacle Mountain
State Park
Visitors need not climb to the mountain’s summit to enjoy Pinnacle Mountain State Park near Little Rock. The park also offers trails for all ability levels, paddling on the Big and Little Maumelle rivers, the Arkansas Arboretum and a wealth of interpretive programs for visitors.
How about floating? no
moderate
How many people are in your group?
expert
Are you afraid of heights?
Do the kids want to learn about Arkansas’ past?
yes
Millwood State Park
Located in Ashdown, Millwood State Park is an angler’s paradise. Millwood Lake’s submerged timber and marshes provide excellent habitat for bass, crappie and bream. Visitors are also sure to see an assortment of birds, since the park is an Audubon- designated Important Bird Area.
yes
yes
yes
no
Toltec Mounds and the
Mammoth Spring
State Park
Situated near Arkansas’ northern border, Mammoth Spring State Park offers a little bit of everything. While history buffs marvel at the old hydroelectric plant, mill and train depot, adventurous folks can float the Spring River, which also provides an abundance of trout.
Plantation Agriculture Museum
History bursts out of the classroom at Toltec Mounds Archeological State Park near Little Rock, which preserves a Native American cultural site and various artifacts. The neighboring Plantation Agriculture Museum offers a look at Arkansas farming in the years before mechanization.
Devil’s Den State Park
Most everyone can find something to enjoy at Devil’s Den State Park in West Fork. Unique rock formations are a hallmark of the park, which also offers a lake for fishing and paddling, various lodging options and a wide range of trails, including equestrian and mountain-bike trails.
no
yes
Do they want to swim?
Do you
want to hang glide?
no
yes
no