Discover Arkansas | A Guide to The Best Outdoors Spots 

From the enchanting Ozarks to the awe-inspiring Ouachitas Mountains, Arkansas is an open-air adventure playground for visitors of any age.  

Whether it’s a sunset kayak along the Arkansas River in Little Rock or ziplining through the forest canopies outside of Eureka Springs, join us as we uncover the best outdoor adventure vacation destinations in the great state of Arkansas. 

Little Rock, Arkansas

Where better to start a tour of the best outdoor adventure spots in the Natural State than heading to the state capital of Arkansas – Little Rock. Not only is this amazing city steeped in historical significance, but Little Rock also boasts a range of parks, trails, and outdoor spaces. These include the Arkansas River Trail, a 15.6-mile loop that you can walk, run, or cycle for truly spectacular vistas of the Little Rock skyline and the river itself.  

Our first port of call when visiting Little Rock is to meet with the Rock Town River Outfitters crew for a day out on the water. Based out of the Rock Water Marina, you can rent kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and canoes and head out for a paddle along the Arkansas River. Afterward, you can also take one of Rock Town River Outfitters’ inspiring sunset pontoon boat tour to round off the day in style.  

Next up, we head for the impressive rock-climbing hotspots dotted around Little Rock for a unique outdoor Arkansas escapade. Whether you’re new to rock climbing or an accomplished climber, the Little Rock Climbing Center can get you up to speed before heading out to tackle a few of Mother Nature’s natural rocky climbing frames. To help you here, check Arkansas Climbers’ website for the best climbing spots around town and join in with any of their many events throughout the year. 

Enjoy the great outdoors in the picturesque state capital before getting a superb night’s sleep every night at the Best Western Plus JFK Inn and Suites in North Little Rock, Arkansas. 

Eureka Springs, Arkansas

Next, we head north to Eureka Springs and into the heart of the Ozark Mountains, an area famous for the reportedly healing properties of its natural springs. Eureka Springs is prized for its abundance of cultural attractions, vintage Victorian architecture, and, of course, the outdoor adventure playground that surrounds this fantastic city. 

Perfect for visitors of all ages, our first outdoor activity in Eureka Springs takes guests on a thrilling experience on a Full Course Canopy Tour at Ozark Mountain Ziplines. Here, you’ll get the chance to soar through the treetops at 250 feet in the air as the zipline course whizzes you along the ten incredible routes, covering an impressive 1.5 miles of action-packed adventure. 

Sticking with the team at Ozark Mountain Ziplines, our second highlight for an outdoor excursion to Eureka Springs is to hire an e-mountain bike for an afternoon exploring the lush local forest. Cross bridges and fly through streams as your E-MTB effortlessly takes you around the area’s sweeping hills and rock formations for an authentic Arkansas open-air escape. 

After a day of flying through and below the forest canopies designed for outdoor enthusiasts like yourself, be sure to unwind with a cozy night’s sleep at the Best Western Inn of the Ozarks in Eureka Springs, Arkansas. 

Hot Springs, Arkansas 

Heading south, our final recommendation of Arkansas’s best outdoor pursuits is the city of Hot Springs. Acting as the gateway to the Ouachita National Forest, and the oldest park in the United States managed by the National Park System, Hot Springs National Park. 

The city is also home to several historic bathhouses that benefit from the rich natural hot springs that flow from the base of the Ouachita Mountains. As a result, Hot Springs has a certain allure for fans of outdoor adventures who seek to immerse themselves in an authentic natural paradise. 

The area benefits from an astonishing range of hiking trails that guide you through various natural reserves and state parks. Here, our first choice is to head for the Caddo Bend Trail, a 4-mile looping hike along the shores of Lake Ouachita. Following that, the Falls Branch Trail at Lake Catherine is our second hiking trail recommendation, offering you and your family tranquil swimming areas and several stunning waterfalls along its 2.6-mile loop. 

Now, if you’re a fan of horseback riding, then Lake Ouachita has another treat for you here, as we suggest heading to the family-run Mountain Harbor Riding Stables next. Trail rides are ideal for riders seeking breathtaking views over Lake Ouachita, and for families with young children, you can enjoy a horse-drawn carriage tour exploring the beautiful outdoor surroundings here in the heart of Arkansas. 

Explore the true outdoor adventures and trails this great state is celebrated for before getting a peaceful night’s sleep every night at the Best Western Winners Circle in Hot Springs, Arkansas.