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Arkansas River Valley, Arkansas

Arkansas - Arkansas River Valley Region

Old World charm, unsurpassed scenic beauty, modern sophistication - it's all here in the Arkansas River Valley.

You'll find pretty little towns such as Ozark and Russellville on the Arkansas River, and you'll find European flavor in the Altus area, the heart of Arkansas Wine Country. Three family-owned wineries dating back to the 1800s and one new one in the area offer tours, tastings and insight into the art of viticulture. You'll find another winery at nearby Paris.

Throughout the valley, the Arkansas River provides exceptional recreation. Lake Dardanelle in the Russellville-Dardanelle area is one of the most popular lakes in the state.

The unsurpassed beauty is best viewed from one of "The Tri-Peaks" that dominate the valley - Nebo, Petit Jean and Magazine. Atop the first two, you'll find state parks that proudly proclaim their Civilian Conservation Corps heritage with 60-year-old-plus housekeeping cabins at both parks and a lodge at Petit Jean. Also at Petit Jean is spectacular Cedar Falls, the park's trademark. Another lofty state park is under development for Magazine, where some of the state's most unspoiled landscape can be found. Currently, you can sightsee and hike, with new facilities opening this fall. These include 18 campsites with water, electric and sewer hookups; a bathhouse; a pavilion and a visitor center with exhibits.

Modern sophistication blends nicely with Old West history at Fort Smith. The state's second largest city is also one of its most historic. At the Fort Smith National Historic Site, you can discover what life was like on the lawless frontier.

And across the river, the refinement of the Victorian era is preserved in all its glory in venerable Van Buren, a mecca for arts, crafts and antiques.

Explore Arkansas River Valley

Cove Lake

In the Ozark National Forest, 160-acre scenic Cove Lake features swimming, hiking, camping, and fishing. There are 28 family-unit campsites, 24 family-unit picnicking sites, restrooms with hot showers, drinking water and boat launching ramp. Boating and jet skis are allowed on Cove Lake. A "no wake"

Paris, AR Recreation

Fort Smith Art Center

Housed in the Vaughn-Schaap House, a Victorian Second Empire structure, the center presents changing exhibits and permanent collections.

Fort Smith, AR Arts


National Scenic 7 Byway

One of the most scenic drives in the country, Scenic 7

Russellville, AR Scenic Byways

Fort Smith National Historic Site

The site, which just underwent a $7 million renovation, contains the remains of two frontier garrisons, Federal Court for the Western District of Arkansas, "Hangin' Judge" Isaac C. Parker's courtroom, reproduction of the 1886 gallows, the "Hell on the Border" jail, the 1846

Fort Smith, AR Historic Sites

Byrd's Adventure Center of the Ozarks

Canoeing and kayaking on the Mulberry River, hiking on the Ozark Highlands Trail, mountain biking, rock climbing for all levels of experience, motorcycle trails and races, horse trails, four-wheel drive obstacle course and competitions

Ozark, AR Visitors Centers

Classic Carriage Tours, LLC

Directions: 4th and Garrison Avenue next door to Goodson's City and historic tours, weddings, anniversaries, company picnics, corporate events, family and class reunions, theme parties; taxi service; caisson funerals. A red "one horse open sleigh"

Fort Smith, AR Tours

Ozark Lake

As the Arkansas River flows through the state, it reaches its northern-most point in a sweeping bend. Now a part of Ozark Lake, this big bend was called "Aux Arc"

Ozark, AR Recreation

American Bonsai Nursery

Directions: From I-40 take Exit 7 to I-540 South, then Exit 3 at Van Buren to Ark. 59. Go left for one long block, turn left into the Industrial Park, then go three miles to 5141 Industrial Park Rd Browse "finished"

Van Buren, AR Gardens

Coal Miner's Memorial

Six-foot bronze statue of coal miner, authentic coal car, two granite walls displaying names of Sebastian County miners.

Greenwood, AR Memorials

Fort Smith Museum of History

Directions: West end of Rogers Ave. between 3rd and 4th Streets Artifacts depict history and culture of the Fort Smith area from Native Americans to present, military activity, notable personalities; revolving exhibits; old-time soda fountain; gift shop.

Fort Smith, AR Museums

Ozark Bridge

Spanning the Arkansas River as Scenic Hwy. 23, this structure is listed as one of the 16 most beautiful long spans in the U.S. by the American Institute of Steel Construction. A lighting project showcases the structure at night.

Ozark, AR Historic Bridges

Explore Arkansas River Valley