Top 14 Most Beautiful Places To Visit In Arkansas
1. Hot Springs and Hot Springs National Park
This charming mountain spa town was hands-down one of the prettiest little cities I explored in the state! The steaming thermal pools set against the Ouachita Mountains, the elegant old bathhouses, and the lively downtown with its quirky shops and cozy Southern eateries gave it such a unique charm!
I began my Arkansas adventure in Hot Springs, just an hour southwest of Little Rock, where I spent four dreamy days at the romantic boutique Hale Hotel and wandered Bathhouse Row—slipping into the historic Buckstaff Bathhouse, soaking in the steamy Quapaw thermal pools, sipping spring-water craft beer, and losing myself in the stories at the visitor center museum.
The surrounding Hot Springs National Park, protected since 1832, was just as beguiling—I hiked the Upper Dogwood and Goat Rock trails to Insta-worthy overlooks, gazed at the misty Display Spring along the Grand Promenade, and watched the Hot Water Cascade pouring dramatically down the rocks.
- Location: central Arkansas, near Little Rock, in the Ouachita Mountains.
- Map Location
- Population size: around 37,900 and Size of park: around 5,550 acres
- Wildlife: white-tailed deer, gray foxes, raccoons, and over 150 species of birds including woodpeckers and warblers.
- Hot Springs National Park Website
My personal highlights…
- Visiting the Superior Bathhouse Brewery – I loved that they brewed with natural spring water – I paired their warm pretzels with beer cheese and crispy fried cauliflower with a rich, chocolatey Foul Play Oatmeal Stout!
2. Hawksbill Crag
This dramatic rock outcrop was definitely one of the most jaw-dropping destinations I visited on my road trip—it spectacularly jutted out 100 feet out from the bluff (1,400 feet above sea level) with seriously Insta-worthy views over the Buffalo River Valley and endless Ozark forest!
From Hot Springs, I drove three hours north based myself at the nearby comfy 7Clans Hotel & Resort for two days. I hiked the moderate Whitaker Point Trail, a three-hour round trip that took me through shady hardwoods, wildflowers painting the trail in streaks of purple, white, and yellow, and weathered rock formations that felt like I was stepping through a natural sculpture gallery!
Standing on the crag itself was both exhilarating and (extremely!) vertigo-inducing, but the seriously Insta-worthy views made everything worthwhile me for! I found the crag had railings though — it was very beautiful but also dangerous if you step too close to the edge!
My favorite highlights…
-
Catching sunrise at Hawksbill Crag – I hiked in the cool pre-dawn air with just my headlamp, then watched the sky shift from deep purple to gold while the valley below atmospherically glowed in an atmospheric morning mist!
3. The Ozarks
I wanted to discover what all the hype was about and yep it really was a truly extraordinary region —rugged mountains, timeworn forests, sparkling lakes, and meandering rivers blended into landscapes that felt both untamed and very inviting!
After leaving Hawksbill Crag, I spent a very dreamy week here, basing myself in the Arkansas section of the range. I wandered the storybook town of Eureka Springs with its Victorian buildings, quirky galleries, and mineral springs, descended into the breathtaking Blanchard Springs Caverns where cool air drifted through vast chambers of stalactites, and admired the striking glass design of Thorncrown Chapel tucked atmospherically in the woods.
I also stopped by the impressive Crystal Bridges Museum and the Ozark Folk Center State Park, where I saw traditional crafts being made and authentic folk music. Between hiking, kayaking, and even tubing down the rivers (my personal favorite!), I thought the Ozarks were the perfect blend of natural beauty, culture, and family-friendly fun!
- Location: northern Arkansas, spanning the Ozark Mountains region
- Map Location
- Size: 50,000 square miles (total area)
- Wildlife: black bears, bald eagles, river otters, and abundant freshwater fish.
- Ozarks Website Guide
My favorite highlights…
- Staying at the beautiful 4-star Beaver Lake Cottages – I loved the glass‑front view over Beaver Lake, my private jacuzzi lit by sandalwood scented candles and the mini‑fridge which was stocked with local craft beer and Onyx Coffee Lab expressos!
4. Catherine’s at Bell Gable, Fayetteville
I thought this whimsical Gothic-style chapel was just dreamy – the tiny building, tucked into woodlands at the base of the Ozark Mountains, looked like something out of a fairytale – seriously!
From my previous stop in the Ozarks, I drove an hour south to Fayetteville and spent a wonderful afternoon here, wandering the romantic gardens where a waterfall tumbled into a pond and sunlight filtered through the trees. The chapel itself was truly exquisite, with stained-glass windows, a hand-carved wooden door, and elegant pointed arches—all painstakingly crafted over a decade by architect Albert Skiles.
The only caveat was that it was reserved just for weddings and vow renewals, though I managed to see it via a private appointment.
My personal highlights…
- Wandering around the fairytale-like garden – I loved the super-cute white Shetland ponies, stonework adorned with creeping ivy and the heady scents of moss, roses, lilies and jasmine all mixed in together!
5. Petit Jean State Park
I personally thought this plateau park was a true underrated beauty—soaring cliffs, tumbling falls, and deep green forests gave it the drama of a national park without the crowds!
From Fayetteville, I headed two hours southeast for an outdoor-focused two-day stay, hiking to the 95-foot Cedar Falls, scrambling around Bear Cave’s giant boulders, admiring picture-perfect valley views from the overlooks, and stopping at the historic Davies Bridge stone arch.
Lake Bailey was perfect for a quiet paddle, while the Blue Hole shimmered like a natural swimming pool tucked into the woods. My evenings at the cozy Cedar Falls Motel were laid-back, with a porch to relax on and glorious sunsets over the trees.
My personal highlights…
- Exploring the Rock House Cave a large sandstone shelter where I saw ancient Native American rock art (known as petroglyphs) – I saw orange swirls, a deer head and even fascinating looking stick men!
6. The Old Mill, Little Rock
I discovered that this picturesque stone watermill in North Little Rock was a romantic hidden gem—a fairytale-like stone watermill surrounded by flower-filled gardens, trickling streams, and rustic wooden bridges.
From Petit Jean State Park, I drove just under an hour east and spent an afternoon wandering the scenic paths, pausing to watch sunlight glint off the ponds and listening to the soft rush of water. Built in 1933 to resemble a 19th-century gristmill, it charmed me with its weathered stone and timber details, even though I knew it wasn’t as historic as it looked!
The real surprise was learning it once graced the opening of Gone with the Wind—now the sole surviving piece of the movie’s set. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, I found it was popular for weddings and photoshoots and I wasn’t surprised – it felt serene and magical, like stepping into a storybook!
- Location: central Arkansas, in North Little Rock at T.R. Pugh Memorial Park.
- Location Map
- Wildlife: songbirds like robins and mockingbirds, ducks and geese
- The Old Mill, Little Rock Website
- Opening times – open every day from 8 a.m. until sunset.
My favorite highlights…
- Wandering around the atmospheric garden and hearing the trickle of the stream, smelling the fragrant azaleas and dogwood and seeing the gentle mist hang over the water features!
7. Buffalo River
I found that the National River in the U.S was a wild and breathtaking place – an unspoiled ribbon of water cutting through sheer cliffs, forested valleys, and rolling hills, and the very first river in the U.S. to be protected as a National River.
From Little Rock, I drove three hours north and spent two days here, paddling calm stretches, and floating lazily in a tube. I hiked to Hemmed-In-Hollow Falls, where a 209-foot cascade thundered into a misty gorge, and stood on Big Bluff, heart pounding as I took in the awesome views over the valley.
The Ponca Wilderness challenged me with rugged trails, while the Lower Buffalo was my favorite for its slower currents and more peaceful vibe. Between kayaking, swimming, caving, and just drifting with the current, the Buffalo felt untamed and unforgettable.
- Location: runs through the Ozark Mountains in the northern part of the state
- Map Location
- Wildlife: elk herds, great blue herons, kingfishers, and whitetail deer
- Buffalo River Website
My favorite highlights…
- Staying in the super-cute Tiny House at Buffalo River – I loved the rustic-chic decor and sitting on the porch snacking on spicy Cajun Boiled Peanuts on the porch while gazing at the misty forests and mountains!
8. Mount Magazine State Park
The protected area home to the the state’s highest peak was a breathtaking stop for me —standing on the state’s highest peak at 2,753 feet, I was treated to endless views of the Arkansas River Valley, rugged cliffs, and streams winding through ancient forests.
From my last destination in Buffalo River, I drove 2.5 hours south and stayed for a wonderful three days, hiking Signal Hill Trail to the very top of Arkansas, catching fiery sunsets from Cameron Bluff Overlook, and pausing at Inspiration Point where the valley stretched out like a painted panorama!
I also wandered Bear Hollow and Benefield Loop Trails, where the scent of pine and the crunch of leaves underfoot made me feel very immersed in nature. With options for rock climbing, rappelling, biking, and even hang-gliding, it was both a peaceful retreat and a fun outdoor adventure playground!
My personal highlights…
- Staying nearby at the beautifully located Lakefront Arkansas Abode – I loved its cozy, romantic decor – especially enjoying a home-cooked sweet potato and veggie hash with cremini mushrooms while gazing out over the misty lake from the patio deck each morning!
9. Ozark Highlands Scenic Byway
This mountain drive was one of the most peaceful and photogenic drives on my trip—35 winding miles through the Ozark National Forest with rugged mountains, thick forests, and rivers glinting in the sunlight.
From Mount Magazine, I looped 1.5 hours north and spent a day here, pulling over often to breathe in the pine-scented air and take in the views.
I loved the quiet Ozone Recreation Area with its picnic tables overlooking rolling hills, the gentle cascade of Haw Creek Falls, and the Kings River Overlook where I gazed in awe at the rolling Ozark ridges! Boxley Valley was a highlight too—emerald fields framed by towering bluffs where I spotted elk gracefully grazing.
My highlights…
- Staying overnight at the trendy 4-star Hasty Cutoff Cabin which was just a few miles away from the Byway – I loved the cozy romantic decor and sitting on the decking with an chilled aromatic Muscadine wine while soaking in the forest and mountain views!
10. Lake Hamilton
This beautiful mountain lake was a highlight on my road trip – its sparkling waters, wooded shores, rolling hills, and serene coves made it the perfect place to kick back and chill!
From the Byway, I drove three hours south and settled in for five days at the stunning Adventure House, where I mixed lake adventures and relaxing downtown. My days were filled with boating, paddle-boarding, jet skiing, and – my favorite – tubing, while evenings mostly ended with quiet picnics on the grassy shoreline as the water shimmered in the sunset.
I also wandered the nearby Garvan Woodland Gardens, where landscaped trails led me past waterfalls and peacocks noisily strutting through the grounds. Between the water, the mountains, and the zen-like vibes of lakeside life, I thought this destination was a real gem!
- Location: central Arkansas, just south of Hot Springs in the Ouachita Mountains.
- Map Location
- Size: 7,200 acres
- Wildlife: largemouth bass, ospreys, and migrating waterfowl.
- Hamilton Lake Website
My personal highlights…
- Dining on a comforting Southern-style squash casserole paired with a sweet Moscato while gliding across the lake on a sunset cruise aboard the vintage-style paddle-wheel Belle of Hot Springs Riverboat.
11. Devil’s Den State Park
I discovered that this rugged Ozark park was another underrated gem—it was filled with rugged Ozark beauty with towering cliffs, caves, creeks, and (in wetter months) tumbling waterfalls.
From Lake Hamilton, I drove 3.5 hours northwest and stayed two days, spending my time hiking shaded trails where owls called from the trees and white-tailed deer darted through the underbrush. I loved clambering through the jagged rock crevices of Devil’s Den itself, peering into the cool darkness of Devil’s Den Cave, and relaxing by the serene eight-acre lake.
Twin Falls was another highlight, its streams spilling gently over mossy rocks into a quiet glen. Beyond hiking, I loved how the park buzzed with options—mountain biking, kayaking, rock climbing, and picnicking under the oaks—but for me, it was the mix of wild scenery and peaceful atmosphere that made this place special!
- Location: northwest part of the state, in the Ozark Mountains near Fayetteville.
- Map Location
- Size: 2,500-acres
- Wildlife: gray foxes, barred owls, and bats in the caves.
- Devil’s Den State Park
My highlights…
- Staying nearby in a cool yurt at the StoneWind Retreat – I loved the large comfy bed and decor, the hot tub and sipping on chilled glass Blackberry Wine while gazing out at the unspoilt countryside!
12. Ozark – St. Francis National Forest
This pristine protected area was one of the wildest and most breathtaking landscapes I came across—filled with mountains, caves, rivers, and lakes that felt endless.
From Devil’s Den, I headed deeper into the northern Ozarks and stayed three days, hiking quiet trails where the air smelled of pine and camping out under star-filled skies. I loved driving scenic backroads that opened up to sweeping overlooks, cooling off with a swim at Mirror Lake, and paddling in the clear waters of Big Piney Creek.
The intriguing Blanchard Springs Caverns made a great stop too, while the Ozark Highlands Trail offered endless ridgeline views. Between wildlife sightings, rustic campgrounds, and moments of complete silence in the forest, I loved how the Ozark–St. Francis made me feel very connected to nature!
My favorite highlights…
- My guided tour of Blanchard Springs Caverns – I felt the cool damp air as water echoed through the cave, still carving past glistening stalactites and stalagmites!
13. DeGray Lake Resort State Park
Arkansas’s only resort state park, this was one of the most scenic and versatile stops on my trip—it was where sparkling lake waters met pine-covered shores, with green rolling hills and wide open skies!
Traveling from Ozark – St. Francis National Forest, I drove three hours south and stayed for a gorgeous three days, splitting my time between blissful lakeside relaxation and fun outdoor adventures. I loved the sandy swimming beaches where the water lapped gently at the shore and kayaking across the glassy lake.
My days were also filled with dreamy picnics watching the sun set over the mountains and getting involved in interesting ranger-led programs and activities.
- Location: southwestern part of the state, near Bismarck, in the foothills of the Ouachita Mountains.
- Map Location
- Size: 938 acres
- Wildlife: bald eagles, great blue herons, and white-tailed deer
- DeGray Lake Resort State Park
My favorite highlights…
- Staying at the cozy DeGray Lake Resort Lodge – I loved dining on a comforting roasted root vegetable medley at the lakeside restaurant, my private patio with enchanting views of the woods, and the onsite swimming pool, hot tub and spa!
14. Ouachita National Recreation Trail
This 223-mile long-distance backcountry hiking trail turned out to be one of the most rugged and rewarding trails I’ve ever hiked— mountain ridges, deep forests, and sweeping river valleys stretched from Talimena State Park in Oklahoma all the way to Pinnacle Mountain near Little Rock.
Having driven from DeGray Lake, I spent two days tackling a section of the trail and indulging in primitive backcountry camping. The solitude was bliss for me —there were times I wouldn’t pass another soul all day, just me, the crunch of leaves underfoot, and the gentle breeze moving through the trees. I found water sources were spread out though, so carrying a filter was essential for me.
For serious hikers it’s a bucket-list trek, but even a short section treated me to a wonderfully unique hike!
- Location: runs west to east across the Ouachita Mountains from Talimena State Park (Oklahoma) to Pinnacle Mountain near Little Rock.
- Map Location
- Wildlife: black bears, bobcats, coyotes, and red-shouldered hawks
- Ouachita National Recreation Trail
My favorite highlights…
- Passing intriguing traces of early settlers and the old logging era along the trail—from eerie abandoned mines (my favorite!) to creepy forgotten cemeteries and the crumbling Sandstone remains of 19th- and early 20th-century cabins and houses!
