State & National Parks

Arkansas isn't called The Natural State for nothing. The state's stunning beauty is always on view - whether you're in one of the many state or national parks in the area or looking for one of the 130 naturally forming waterfalls in Northwest Arkansas. Our region is perfect for just about any outdoor activity you can think of.

With lakes, rivers and streams, you can fish, float or fly on a wakeboard. Camping, hiking or trailriding -- with horse or bike -- is a perfect way to spend a beautiful afternoon. Hobbs State Park is the only park in the state system that allows hunting.

Come explore all we have to offer in Northwest Arkansas or visit the state's tourism website for many more Natural State activities.  

Buffalo National River - The Buffalo became America's first federally protected stream in 1972.  The free-flowing Buffalo National River meanders through the heart of the Ozarks for 150 miles before joining the White River south of Mountain Home. Natural wilderness, towering limestone bluffs, canoe outfitters, campsites, hiking trails, three wilderness areas, and cabin rentals are popular and available. Gravel bar camping is permitted and the park is also the home of the state's only elk herd in Arkansas.

Devil's Den State Park - Lee Creek Valley, a picturesque setting in northwest Arkansas' Ozarks Mountains is home to rustic style wood and stone structures including an impressive native stone dam in the heart of the park forming peaceful 8-acre Lake Devil. Rental canoes, tandem kayaks, pedal boats and water bikes are available at the park. Hiking, backpacking, and mountain bike trails lead to back country areas of Devil's Den State Park and the surrounding Ozark National Forest. Seventeen fully-equipped cabins, available throughout the year, feature kitchens and fireplaces. A park cafe and swimming pool (both open in summer only) overlook the lake.

Hobbs State Park - Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area covers 12,056 acres along the southern shores of Beaver Lake. A 17,531-square-foot visitor center features state-of-the-art exhibits and classroom/meeting space. The park also features a variety of public hiking trails including a 1/4-mile, barrier-free historical trail and 16-mile multi-use trail; an all-weather public firing range; regulated seasonal hunting; undeveloped access to Beaver Lake; and interpretive programs. Hobbs is Arkansas's only state park where hunting is allowed.

Withrow Springs State Park - In the heart of the Ozark Mountains and cradled by the bluffs of the War Eagle Creek, Withrow Springs State Park is a peaceful setting for relaxing camping and leisurely floats along this scenic mountain stream. Take in the natural beauty of the surrounding Ozark scenery and enjoy float fishing for catfish, bream, perch, or bass. Withrow Springs offers camping, hiking, swimming, tennis as well as picnic sites, pavilions, a gift shop, and baseball and softball field. Canoes can be rented at the park and park staff provides shuttle service for floaters.