Where Endless Adventures Await
From the rugged peaks of the Ozark Mountains to the waters of Lake Ouachita, Arkansas’ natural beauty can only be described as awe-inspiring. Dubbed an “adventure paradise” by Outside Magazine, the state’s expansive network of trails and riverways gives visitors and locals alike opportunities to explore a diverse range of ecosystems in a single state.
At Arkansas’ 52 state parks, outdoor enthusiasts can access mountainous terrain, bottomland channels and dense forests rich with unique wildlife and breath-taking views. Whether by hiking, biking, canoeing or kayaking, thousands of people a year come to see for themselves why Arkansas is often called “The Natural State.”
A Tourism Hot Spot
According to a recent report from the National Park Service, approximately 4.4 million people visited a National Park in Arkansas in 2023, spending an estimated $289 million in the local gateway regions. As a result, these expenditures helped support over 4,000 jobs, $111 million in labor income, $198 million in value-added and $375 million in economic output.
Hot Springs National Park, the oldest national park in the nation, received 2.5 million visitors alone last year. Known for its 47 thermal hot springs, this natural wonder attracts tourists come from all over the world. People visited this area for centuries to soak in the mineral rich waters, once believed to have healing properties. Though the springs are no longer available for that activity, there are several nearby bathhouses that offer spa experiences using the water.
Bathhouse Row, Hot Springs
Photo courtesy of Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism
Spanning more than 135 miles of crystal-clear waters for canoeing, kayaking and fishing, Buffalo National River Park welcomed the second highest number of visitors in 2023, around 1.5 million people. Established in 1972 as America’s first designated national river, it’s one of few remaining undammed rivers in the lower 48 states.
Snaking through the Ozark Mountains, the river is flanked by towering bluffs, some rising as high as 500 feet. More than 500 caves exist within its boundaries, making it one of the most cave-rich national parks in the country.
While this natural wonder offers jaw-dropping views, it also shares insight into the region’s rich history. Due to the remnants of lithic tools, woven basketry and corn cobs, archaeologists were able to determine that natural bluff shelters in the park’s Upper District sheltered Native Americans more than 2,000 years ago. The shelter, now known as Cob Cave, continues to attract hikers to the Lost Valley Trail, one of the most popular hikes in the park.
Encouraging Activity
Outdoor recreation isn’t only a tourist attraction in Arkansas, it’s a way of life.Many who move to the state are often drawn by the various outdoor activities available in the area. According to United Van Lines’ 2023 Annual National Movers Study, Arkansas was one of the most moved-to-states in the country for 2023, with a 60.16% inbound move rate. While the driving factors differ from person to person, United Van Lines’ report highlights motivators such as employment, proximity to family, retirement and — you guessed it — outdoor recreation and climate.
To support its growing communities and continue to foster enthusiasm for the outdoors, Arkansas leadership has made major investments in community outdoor recreation resources.
In February, Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders announced that the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism was awarding $4.34 million in Outdoor Recreation Grants to projects within 29 counties throughout the state.
“My administration is looking for any opportunity to get kids and families off screens and outdoors. It’s a priority for our whole state,” said Governor Sanders. “This year’s multi-million-dollar investment in playgrounds, park facilities and more will provide added amenities to communities from the Delta to the Ozarks. It’s all part of my goal to make Arkansas the best state in America to live, work and raise a family.”
The grants fall into two categories: Facilities for Underdeveloped Neighborhoods (FUN) Park grants and matching grants. Historically, this funding has aided cities and counties in developing outdoor recreation facilities such as walking trails, athletic facilities, playgrounds, splashpads, restrooms and other amenities and improvements. Project officers make recommendations regarding the feasibility of proposed projects, eligibility for grant support and other facets of the planning process, leading to nearly 200 site visits each year to assist local communities.
“The Outdoor Recreation Grants Program (ORGP) has provided $52.6 million in matching grants since 1988 and $16.4 million in FUN Park grants since 1991,” said Secretary Shea Lewis. “These funds have undoubtedly enriched the quality of life for Arkansans statewide, fostering greater access to outdoor recreation and bolstering the vitality of local economies.”
Photo courtesy of Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism
