Arkansas River Valley, Arkansas
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 RecreationBlue Mountain Wildlife Demonstration Area
Directions: Take Hwy. 23 south out of Booneville, then Hwy. 217 east seven miles to the headquarters building A world-class bird dog field trial area that attracts visitors from throughout the United States and several foreign countries;
Booneville, AR Wildlife AreasFort 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 ArtsOzark 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 BridgesMount Magazine State Park
Mount Magazine State Park, the highest peak in the state at 2,753 feet, provides commanding views; impressive visitor center with interactive exhibits; camping, all sites have water, electric, and sewer hookups; new bathhouse with hot showers; rappelling, hang gliding, hiking;
Paris, AR State ParksOak Cemetery
Earliest tombstone is that of Captain Gookin, who died in 1842, the same year the city was incorporated. Other personalities buried here include Arkansas Governor William Fishback (1833-1895); Captain John Rogers, founder of the city; and Arthur Erback, husband of Pearl Starr.
Fort Smith, AR CemeteriesCoal Miner's Memorial
Six-foot bronze statue of coal miner, authentic coal car, two granite walls displaying names of Sebastian County miners.
Greenwood, AR MemorialsCreekmore Park Train Rides
Train runs Wednesday thru Sunday plus holidays, from Memorial Day to Labor Day; weekends only September 8-October 28
Fort Smith, AR ExcursionsPetit Jean State Park
Book a Room Online Credit Cards Accepted: American Express, Discover Card, MasterCard, Visa Food Service/Picnic Area Available # of Units/Rooms: 56 Restaurant on site/nearby Recreation Seating Capacity: 100 Non-Smoking Area Available Type of Service: Banquet, Buffet, Menu Directions:
Morrilton, AR State ParksMount Olive United Methodist Church
Constructed by freed slaves in 1889
Van Buren, AR Historic Churches