6 Best Natural Wonders To Visit In Arkansas This Year

Arkansas' nickname is ‘The Natural State’, which is incredibly apt considering its exceptional array of natural landscapes. For example, the state is home to the Buffalo National River, the first national river in the US. It is also the location of the gorgeous 'Arkansas Grand Canyon.’ The vast natural wonders throughout Arkansas shine from spring through fall, revealing beauty and a few surprises along the way. These are 6 of the best spots to visit in 2025.

Hawksbill Crag

The hiking trail leading up to Hawksbill Crag (also known as Whitaker Point) in the Ozark National Forest is one of the most popular in the entire state. It is a moderate 2.7-mile climb that reveals unmatched views of the Upper Buffalo Wilderness. Hawksbill Crag itself is a rocky ledge that juts out of a mountainside, overlooking the wilderness area.

The area's beauty attracts thousands of visitors every year; however, fall is peak season, when the trees below burst into a display of deep orange, vibrant red, and shimmering gold. Crowds are much smaller in winter, though the drive and hike are significantly more challenging in icy conditions, while in springtime, wildflowers pop up all along the trail, making for a beautiful destination no matter the time of year.

Petit Jean Mountain

Petit Jean towers over the Arkansas River Valley at a maximum elevation of approximately 1,100 feet. At the top, Cedar Creek carves its way through the forested slopes. The mountain is the home of Petit Jean State Park, which was established in 1923. The East Brow is the best place to get acquainted with Petit Jean, in particular at Stout’s Point, where you will find the gravesite of the mountain's namesake, and interesting history about how the place came to be.

This overlook is one of the most popular within the park, as it also offers panoramic views of the Arkansas River. Several hiking trails crisscross the sandstone cliffs of the mountain, and there are unique rock formations to look out for, including Bear Cave and Carpet Rocks. At the top of the mountain, Cedar Falls is another natural focal point to enjoy. The 95-foot waterfall cascades down into Cedar Creek and is one of the most popular destinations in the park. Much like Hawksbill Crag, the best time to visit the park to see the mountain and waterfall is in the fall. At this time of year, the foliage is incredible, further enhancing the area's beauty.

Bayou Bartholomew

Bayou Bartholomew flows 364 miles between Arkansas and Louisiana, making it the longest bayou on Earth. It is believed that the bayou was formed approximately 2,000 years ago, following a change in the course of the Arkansas River. It is also believed that the name Bartholomew came from a young Parisian who joined the expedition to explore Arkansas in the 17th century.

Today, several sections of the bayou make for excellent fishing spots. Anglers come from all over the state and the rest of the US to catch catfish, bream, and crappie. Birdwatchers have the opportunity to see wood ducks, hooded mergansers, and mallards during the year. And, there is more than enough water for paddling, kayaking, and canoeing. In fact, the bayou is one of the most biologically diverse streams in the country, and the waters cut through the Mississippi River Delta’s forested wetlands. Spring is a great time to visit the bayou, as the weather is warm but not too hot and humid, like in summer. Crowds tend to be smaller as well, and this is peak season for fishing and wildlife viewing.

Natural Bridge

There is an admission fee to see the Natural Bridge of Arkansas, a few miles from Clinton and also part of Petit Jean State Park; however, it's a small price to pay to experience this magnificent geological structure. The bridge is a 120-foot arched formation consisting of sandstone and lies against a green backdrop near Little Johnny Creek.

Loggers once hauled their logs across the bridge, but it is not possible to drive over it today. Fortunately, there is a seating area nearby where visitors can take in the view (and take pictures). There are also two century-old cabins in the area, which are now used as a gift shop and entrance to the bridge, as well as a museum of sorts with period artifacts. The regular season runs from mid-March to mid-October, weather permitting. Visitors flock to the area during summer to see the bridge as well as the blooming Ozark foothills.

Mammoth Spring

In addition to being one of the largest springs in the world, Mammoth Spring is simply gorgeous. The mouth of the spring lies 500 feet from the Missouri/Arkansas border, and the water powers a hydroelectric dam. The electric turquoise spring waters flow into a 10-acre lake, which in turn merges with Spring River, a popular spot for fishing and floating.

The Osage people inhabited the area for thousands of years before settlers arrived and named the area ‘Head of the River.’ Now, the spring is a National Natural Landmark within Mammoth Spring State Park. Here, visitors can also find a historic train depot and museum, along with a playground and picnic area perfect for families to enjoy. It can become uncomfortably hot in Mammoth Spring during summer, which makes the river even more appealing, but April to May and mid-September to October are the best times to visit for optimal weather and fewer crowds.

Falls Creek Falls

Falls Creek Falls, also known as Lake Catherine Falls, can be found in Lake Catherine State Park near Hot Springs. This picturesque waterfall drops 12 feet down into a clear plunge pool surrounded by pine-hardwood forest along Falls Creek, and is one of the Ouachitas’ most photographed spots, as well as a popular swimming hole.

The falls can be found along the Falls Branch Trail, a two-mile loop that winds through scenic forest and crosses Little Canyon Creek several times over suspension and foot bridges. It takes around two hours to complete the moderate route. Falls Creek Falls become dramatic after heavy rains, which are more common in summer. However, there are also larger crowds during the summer months because of the refreshing pool and nearby campground. To enjoy the best weather and greenery, and fewer crowds, it is recommended to visit during the fall.

Arkansas’s natural wonders are more than just beloved attractions. They help boost the economy as they are part of the draw that brings millions of visitors to the state every year. There is something for everyone, including geological history, wildlife, and spectacular views. So, while urban centers like Little Rock and Fayetteville may have the allure of culture, fine dining, and nightlife, these 6 hot spots offer world-class entertainment on a much larger scale.