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 RecreationNational Scenic 7 Byway
One of the most scenic drives in the country, Scenic 7
Russellville, AR Scenic BywaysRialto Community Arts Center
Directions: U.S. 64 becomes Broadway in downtown Morrilton Restored historic 1911 movie theatre that has performances of country-Western, big band, gospel, bluegrass and Western swing music
Morrilton, AR ArtsOzark 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 RecreationCreekmore 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 ExcursionsOzark 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 BridgesBona Dea Trails & Sanctuary
186 acres of wetlands and low woods provide an ideal habitat for a wide variety of wildlife. Nearly six miles of trails wind through the sanctuary providing a multitude of recreational opportunities such as walking, jogging, nature photography, and nature study.
Russellville, AR TrailsOak 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 CemeteriesMount 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 ParksVan Buren Confederate Monument
Directions: Crawford County Courthouse Lawn Has been in existence for over 150 years
Van Buren, AR MonumentsFort 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