*This post is part of a series of sponsored posts by Arkansas Tourism about the total eclipse of April 2024. The views and opinions expressed are the author’s own. 

Why northeast Arkansas? 

There are so many great things to do in Batesville and Jonesboro, Arkansas. Part of what makes these areas so unique is where they are located. Batesville is in the Ozark region, and Jonesboro is within the Crowley’s Ridge part of Arkansas. Crowley’s Ridge is a unique geological formation believed to have been created by water, ice, and wind action over a 50-million-year period. The ridge is actually an island formed by ancient paths of the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers. Batesville is unique in that it is the oldest city in Arkansas. Jonesboro is home to Arkansas State University. The whole area is great to explore with kids and is an excellent destination to enjoy the eclipse. 

Things to do in Batesville and Jonesboro, Arkansas

Both cities have a wide range of activities for families and people of all ages. There are incredible outdoor recreation opportunities in the Ozark Mountains around Batesville, along with small-town vibes and a charming, historic downtown. Jonesboro is one of the larger cities in northeast Arkansas and also has a thriving downtown. Arkansas State University has a wonderful museum and brings lots of great culture to the area as well.

One more reason to visit…during the eclipse in April 2024, both cities will see just over four minutes of totality! 

Places to play in Batesville, Arkansas

Batesville, Arkansas, is a small town that is northeast of Little Rock and along the White River. The historic downtown is currently being revitalized and one of the first places that was updated was a new park. Maxfield Park is an adorable, multilevel park that was built using repurposed and recycled materials. It is a whimsical place to play with a slide, climbing structures, a small stage, and lots of fun art to look at. The park has signage that shares its history and rebuilding process.

Riverside Park is along the north side of the White River and is the largest park. It has two playgrounds and pavilions available to rent. The park boasts a state champion, Chinkapin Oak Tree. Riverside is the perfect place for bird watching, and bald eagles are often spotted swooping along the river banks! 

Batesville must-see spots

A unique thing about downtown Batesville is the Melba Theater. This historic, one-screen theater shows movies throughout the year and also hosts special events and concerts. It’s worth stopping by just to see the iconic sign outside the theater.

Across the street from the theater is Paper Chase Bookstore, a new and used bookstore with something for everyone. The building it sits in is on the National Register of Historic Places. Another unique place to see is the Batesville Area Arts Council, which has an art gallery and often hosts special events.

Batesville even has its own community theater. The city manages the community center, which has a huge waterpark and gymnasium, and it’s $5 per person for a drop-in rate. For antique shopping, check out the 22,000 square foot Olde Town Mall. 

More things to do in Batesville, Arkansas

Did you know that Batesville is where NASCAR legend Mark Martin is from? There is a museum with some of his history and memorabilia in Batesville. For some history and educational experiences, go visit the Old Independence Regional Museum. The museum shares the history of Independence County and there’s also an educational garden as well.

Outdoor adventure enthusiasts, specifically rock climbers, will love to visit Jamestown Crag. It’s one of the best climbing destinations in the state. There are multiple climbing routes, mountain biking, hiking trails, and primitive camping. The area is on private land and managed by a non-profit. To visit, you must fill out this form to get entry information. 

Dining options in Batesville, Arkansas

A must-see coffee shop in Batesville is Morningside Coffee, located in an old house not too far from downtown. They have a drive-through and a wonderful front porch where you can enjoy a cup of coffee. There is also a Busy Bean Coffee drive-through and a Scooter’s Coffee. Don’t forget to try local chain Nova Joes.

Looking for a super fun pizza place? Check out Stella’s Brick Oven Pizza in historic downtown Batesville. Another option is U.S. Pizza Company, which also has an arcade. Real Goods Market and Eatery is a natural and organic food store with a cafe, along with grab-and-go options.

A unique dining experience awaits you at The River and Sandbar, where you can dine and look over the White River. For a fun dessert option, check out Sweet Tooth Frozen Delights. 

Exploring Jonesboro, Arkansas

There are a huge number of fun things to do in Jonesboro, and downtown Jonesboro has one of the coolest! Huntington Square in downtown Jonesboro is home to a food truck court, event space, and public gathering area. There is also a pickleball court with incredible murals around it. On one end of the square is a wonderful coffee shop that also features deliciously fresh smoothie bowls and cafe items. I recommend getting the acai smoothie bowl from Urban Organics.

A boutique hotel on the square, Intersect311, also has one, two, and three-bedroom condos for short-term rentals. The hotel is close enough to walk downtown to explore. 

Outdoor adventure near Jonesboro, Arkansas

Jonesboro, Arkansas, has plenty of outdoor places to play, and many of them are an ideal place to watch the April 2024 total solar eclipse. Craighead Forest Park is a massive city park on the south side of town. There are three iconic playgrounds. Rotary Park playground is designed like a westward expansion-style fort.

Nearby, the Rotary Centennial playground is an ADA-accessible playground that also has a splash pad and a unique basketball area. The third playground is on the north side of the lake and features a playground designed to look like a castle. Pets are welcome at this park and there’s also a dog park with a dog jumping pier where dogs can swim! Craighead Forest Park has multiple walking paths, hiking and biking trails, disc golf and great fishing. 

State parks near Jonesboro, Arkansas

The state parks of Arkansas have two locations near Jonesboro. Crowley’s Ridge State Park has a stocked fishing pond and a separate swimming area with a slide. There are several hiking trails and one, Dancing Rabbit, features a swinging bridge! Something unique about the park is all of the beautiful stone structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s.

Nearby Walcott Lake, the hiking trail goes around the lake on the levee, and it’s a great place to fish but also has wide open views of the sky. Lake Frierson State Park is just 10 miles from Jonesboro and has a large lake that’s stocked for fishing. 

Jonesboro nature centers

Nature centers are some of our favorite places to visit. In Arkansas, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission has some of the most incredible, free nature centers. The Forrest L. Wood Crowley’s Ridge Nature Center is a must-see in Jonesboro. Outside the nature center are acres of prairie and woodlands, along with a pond.

The Habitats Trail is ADA accessible and takes you through parts of the surrounding forest. Inside, the three-story interpretive exhibit is a must-see, and it’s fun to look at it from every floor. The nature center features a theater and many displays about the flora and fauna you’ll see on Crowley’s Ridge. There’s also great information about how the ridge was formed. The basement of the nature center has a great classroom with wildlife you can view along with opportunities to color or craft. 

 Arkansas National History Museum

Some of the things to do in Batesville and Jonesboro include visiting museums. Jonesboro is home to an incredible natural history museum at Arkansas State University. It’s the largest museum in northeast Arkansas. A great thing about this museum is that admission is free! One of the exhibits features a replica of a Mastodon skeleton and it’s incredible. Another fun exhibit shows the history of the “rockabilly” generation in the 1950s.

For some role-play learning, kids can explore the Arkansas Frontier exhibit. The “Walk Through Time” exhibit allows you to step through more than 600 million years of history. It’s open Tuesday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Be sure to check the school calendar for any closures. Thank you to Lindsey from All About Arkansas for the photo of the museum Mastadon. Follow her on Facebook for even more fun things to do in Arkanasas!

Indoor fun in Jonesboro, Arkansas

This area has so many great options for families, and there are a lot of indoor things to do in Batesville and Jonesboro. A great store to check out is Gearhead Outfitters, both the downtown and larger Highland Drive locations. The store has tons of great outdoor gear, clothing, gadgets, and more.

Hijinks Family Fun Center is the destination for indoor entertainment. It has bowling, a huge arcade, a restaurant, a soft play area for children under 12, a ropes course, a climbing wall, and even a pool table. We appreciated that the more scary arcade games were in a corner and not out in the middle. JT’s Grill has lots of food options, but I recommend the Stacey fries for a great gluten-free snack. Hijinks is also adding go-karts and mini golf soon. 

The Social is a great spot for families with older kids. It’s a restaurant that has a great menu of food and drinks, with a full-service bar and lounge. There are two indoor shuffleboards and some other games as well. But, the coolest attraction is the hyper bowling! This new twist on bowling has LED lights in the bumpers and you can play many ways. Some of the challenges involve you intentionally striking the bumpers for bonus points. It’s a great way to level the playing field and leads to many laughs. 

The coffee scene

There is no shortage of great coffee shops in Jonesboro. Four Kings Coffee is one of my favorites, and quite possibly my favorite, of all the coffee shops I’ve been to. They have an incredible menu of great seasonal drinks and the coffee is top-notch. Be sure to also check out Story Coffee House, where they have great coffee and gluten-free food options. Story Coffee House shares a building with an adorable bookstore and gift shop called Verb. Two more coffee shops are Shadrach’s Coffee and Coffee Gallery. 

Family-friendly restaurants in Jonesboro, Arkansas

There are a lot of great places to eat in Jonesboro, with a range of restaurants to suit every craving. Here are a few favorites:

• Omar’s Uptown
• Brickhouse Grill
• JTown’s Grill
• Lazzari Italian Oven
• Skinny J’s
• Pier 88
• Los Arcos
• Mai Pai Thai

Eclipse festival in Dyess, Arkansas

Just less than an hour from Jonesboro is the boyhood home of Johnny Cash in Dyess, Arkansas. It’s a historic site that offers tours of the home and the history of the area and is one more unique thing to do in Batesville and Jonesboro. They’re also hosting a whole festival for the eclipse! There are events the weekend before and the day of the eclipse, including a music festival. A lunch and learn is scheduled for April 7 at noon and it will be hosted by a NASA scientist!

Get your tickets for these events early, and book campsites here

Solar eclipse weekend itineraries

Here are itinerary ideas for how to enjoy two different days around Jonesboro: 

• An indoor day:
  • Breakfast at Story Coffee House and Verb Bookstore
  • Spend the morning at the Arkansas State Natural History Museum if it’s a weekday
  • If it’s a weekend, spend the morning exploring downtown Jonesboro
  • Grab lunch at HiJinks and play the rest of the day
• An outdoor day:
  • Pack a picnic lunch
  • Get coffee and breakfast at IV Kings Coffee
  • Go play at Craighead Forest Park. Enjoy the playgrounds, some hiking, some biking and maybe some fishing
  • Drive over to Forrest L. Wood Crowley’s Ridge Nature Center and explore the grounds and nature center
  • Head back to town and enjoy dinner and bowling at The Social

Best places to watch the eclipse in Batesville and Jonesboro

There will be many places to enjoy watching the eclipse in Batesville and Jonesboro. Any place with public parking and a clear view of the sky will be perfect.

The City Park or anywhere along the River Park area will be perfect in Batesville.

For observing the eclipse in Jonesboro, you can’t go wrong with planning to be at Craighead Forest Park. There is lots of parking, and plenty of clear sky views around the lake.

For more updates on events and places to view the eclipse, be sure to follow the social media pages and websites for the cities of Batesville and Jonesboro. 

Northeast Arkansas is great for families

Northeast Arkansas is a great place to visit with families. There are so many fun and unique things to do in Batesville and Jonesboro; you’re sure to have a great time. Both cities are in the line of totality for the total eclipse in April 2024, and they’re sure to be a popular destination to view it.

This area has a rich and diverse environment with the Ozark Mountains and Crowley’s Ridge formation. Our family had a wonderful time exploring all that these cities had to offer, and I can’t wait to share my home state of Arkansas with you. If you’d like to read more about how to have the best eclipse experience with your kids, check out my post with everything you need to know about planning and preparing.

Additional resources

For more information about where to go for the upcoming eclipse and other fun things to do in Arkansas, check out the following posts:

• Family fun around Russelville, Arkansas
• Exploring Mena, Arkansas with kids
• 10 kid-friendly things to do in Northwest Arkansas
• Bentonville, Arkansas – Get Out Guide
• Fly fishing Dry Run Creek – Lake Norfork, Arkansas 
• Eureka Springs, Arkansas with kids
• Arkansas crystal digging with kids

About Nichole

Nichole is a writer, content creator, and family travel and adventure influencer residing in southwest Arkansas. Though she and her husband (Ryan) are originally from the Midwest, they’ve lived in Arkansas for 10 years now and are thrilled to call it home. They have homeschooled their children from the beginning of their educational journey. They have a now 12-year-old son and 9-year-old daughter, along with a one-year  Direwolf Dog puppy named Levi. Nichole is an avid outdoor adventurer and road tripper and has been taking her kids on adventures by herself since they were infants, as part of what she calls being responsibly brave. She is also on the Executive Team for Run Wild My Child and has contributed to Wild and Free. Be sure to follow her on Instagram and Facebook to stay up to date with all of their shenanigans. 

The post Things to do in Batesville and Jonesboro, Arkansas appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

Where are Russellville, Morrilton, and Clinton?

The cities of Russellville, Morrilton, and Clinton are located in Arkansas’s northwest and central areas. Russellville is the largest of the three cities. The entire area has an abundance of mountains and lakes nearby for outdoor recreation. Arkansas Tech University is also based in Russellville, so it has a fun “college town” vibe. Russellville and Morrilton are fairly close together, as is the city of Dardanelle. Clinton is farther northeast. 

Why explore the Russellville area?

There is so much for family fun around Russellville, Arkansas, including some of the best outdoor recreation in the state! This area has some of the most beautiful state parks, including the iconic Petit Jean State Park.

The Arkansas River flows through this area and fills up Lake Dardanelle for great fishing and birdwatching opportunities. Monument Trails and mountain biking trails in Arkansas State Parks are all around as well, plus many other trails and outdoor recreation opportunities. Local shops and restaurants are plentiful, and a thriving arts community exists. 

NASA in Russellville for the eclipse

Did you know that NASA will be doing part of its live broadcast of the solar eclipse from Russellville? It’s because it’s a premier destination to watch the eclipse this April. The estimated duration of totality for this area is 4 minutes and 11 seconds. There will also be scientific public outreach and presentations during the weeks leading up to the eclipse. You can learn more about the upcoming eclipse on Nasa’s website. 

Eclipse festivals and events

In the days leading up to the eclipse and the day of, there are family-friendly things to do around Russellville and the surrounding cities. The city of Russellville has festivities and activities going on all weekend, with live music, balloon rides, a barbecue festival, and more. There will even be a special elopement ceremony for couples hoping to seal the deal during the eclipse.

Also, nearby Morrilton will also have full days of events for the whole family the weekend before the eclipse and the day of. Food trucks will be around the city, games, live music, movie nights, and educational presentations.

Camp Mitchell on Petit Jean Mountain is offering its own festival and camping. The surrounding state parks will have events as well! Plus, there are all kinds of unique camping experiences and events happening around the area. 

Outdoor things to do in the area

The land in and around Russellville, Arkansas, is full of opportunities to play outdoors. The area has three state parks, a river visitor center, and a wide variety of hiking and biking trails. There are disc golf courses, geocaching, and plenty of outdoor sports courts for soccer, tennis, and basketball. Campgrounds can be found at the nearby state parks and Army Corps of Engineers sites. Plus, each city has wonderful parks, playgrounds, and public spaces. 

Lake Dardanelle State Park (and Trail of Tears)

When it comes to fishing, Lake Dardanelle cannot be beaten. In fact, the fishing is so good that the state park has a permanent weigh-in facility that was built just for tournaments. The park has ample spaces for picnicking and strolling along the lake shore, in addition to a swimming beach. For hiking, the Meadowlark Nature Trail is a great place for kids of all ages. It’s an easy 3⁄4 mile walk that shows you the flora, fauna, and history of the area.

Lake Dardanelle State Park is also a Trail of Tears National Historic Site. The park visitor’s center has lots of great information and hands-on learning opportunities. There is a beautiful room with a panoramic view of the lake, five aquariums, a turtle touch tank, a book nook under a tree, a gift shop, and more. Even if you’re passing through, the visitor’s center is a must-see! 

Arkansas River Visitor Center

Another great place for family fun around Russellville is the Arkansas River Visitor Center and Dam Site Recreation Area. The visitor center has wonderful displays that walk you through the river’s history, indigenous history, and the city’s growth. From the balcony of the visitor center, you can see out over the lock and dam on the river. There are also some wonderful displays of raptors and other birds you may see along the river.

The nearby Dam Site Recreation Area and Old Post campground have a great disc golf course, tennis courts, basketball courts, soccer fields, baseball fields, pavilions, a playground, sand volleyball, and hiking trails. There is lots of wide open space here, and it is a great place to view the eclipse. 

Riverview Recreation Area

On the other side of the river is Riverview Recreation Area. There are 18 Class B camping spots, plus a few places to picnic. A tip: there is an adorable fairy house next to the campsite hosts at the spot closest to the dam. There are ample places to park and walk down to the river to explore. It’s a great place for birdwatching, playing along the sandy shoreline, and a great place to watch the eclipse.

Council Oaks Park is near this area on Dardanelle Road. The park is home to a White Oak Champion Tree and has more picnic tables. Dardanelle Rock Natural Area is one more neat spot to check out. There is a very steep half-mile hike to the top of the rock outcropping. It’s a popular spot for climbing and there are fixed places for climbers to put their ropes. 

Bona Dea Trails and Pine Knob Trails

Bona Dea trails are a must-see while you’re in Russellville. This beautiful sanctuary is just off Highway 7 and features more than 186 acres of protected wetlands and low-lying wooded areas. The park has six miles of trails. There is a fitness program, too, with 18 workout stations spread across the park. The easiest trail, Rabbit Run, is one mile, and the longest is the 3.5-mile Serendipity Trail. 

For the biking enthusiasts, don’t miss Pine Knob Trails. The entrance to the trail system is very close to Old Post Park. The park has something for every level of rider. There is a balance bike course, pump track, and trails rated from very easy to the black diamond trail named “JackaNOPE.” Please read the trail signage, respect park and trail rules, and wear helmets! The park is funded by the River Valley branch of the Ozark Off Road Cyclists. 

Mount Nebo State Park

One of the iconic Arkansas State Parks, Mount Nebo is one of the best things for family fun around Russellville. The adventure starts with the drive up this beautiful mountain. State Hwy. 155 (paved) zigzags up the mountain’s eastern side with a series of tight hairpin turns. The park recommends no trailers or RV’s over 24 ft. long attempt the climb.

The views at the top are worth the climb. Mt. Nebo has campgrounds, hiking, biking, and a wonderful visitors center. When you walk out the back of the visitor center, it looks like you’ll walk right off the mountain’s edge. It’s a great spot for photos.

The Rim Trail takes you around the top of the mountain, but be mindful of steep drop-offs! For an absolutely epic sunset experience, walk or drive down to Sunset Point on the western edge of the mountain. Get there about 30 to 45 minutes ahead of sunset to claim a spot on the mountainside. 

Mount Nebo Monument Trails

Another neat feature of Mount Nebo State Park is the Monument Trail system within the park. Monument Trails are world-class mountain biking trails that are carefully crafted by expert trail designers while maintaining the integrity and natural layout of the land. Many of the trails are shared use, but some are downhill only and some are uphill only. Be sure to get a trail map at the visitor center. There are trails for all skill sets, too! 

Petit Jean State Park

Petit Jean State Park is one of the most iconic state parks in the entire state and the very first Arkansas State Park.  It’s also a park with a fascinating history about how it got its name.  The mountain is very large, with many great places to view the eclipse. It’s the perfect place for family fun around Russellville. There is camping for all RV’s, tent camping, cabins, and a beautiful lodge. Stout’s Point is a wonderful overlook on the park’s east side. It has ruins of some of the original buildings on the mountain. The point is a great spot for photo ops and has many places to explore. Be mindful while climbing around the boulders, there are some steep drop offs! 

Hiking Petit Jean

There are some stunning hiking trails in Petit Jean State Park, along with many scenic overlooks and places for photos. The trail to the Cedar Falls overlook is an easy hike on a broad, ADA-accessible boardwalk.

The hike down to the falls is two miles round trip but rated strenuous for the steep ascent on the way out. Rock House Cave Trail is a must-see hike for families. It’s less than a mile but takes you through some incredible geology including the “turtle rocks,” aptly named because they look like turtle shells There are pictographs in the Rock House Cave as well. Seven Hollows trail is an incredible, longer hike that takes you through a canyon on a 4.5-mile loop. 

Museum of Automobiles

Check out the Museum of Automobiles on Petit Jean Mountain for some unexpected fun. The building itself is a unique site to see, but it’s also filled with a huge collection of antique and collector cars! The museum boasts a car that was once owned by Elvis Presley, a 1920’s open-sided school bus, and a fully restored 1913 Cretors Popcorn Wagon. A personal favorite, they also have a DeLorean.

Pro tip: be sure to check out the working player piano and slide a few quarters in to hear it play! 

Places to eat near Petit Jean

On the mountain, there are a few places to grab a snack or food. Mather Lodge at the state park has a restaurant that’s open daily. Petit Jean Coffeehouse is an adorable cafe in a charming white A-frame house.

Nearby in Morrilton, the award-winning Elia’s Mexican Grill is a must-stop and leave room for their famous chocolate nachos dessert. Downtown Morrilton also has some cute restaurants and another coffee shop called Big Cuppa. 

Places to play in Morrilton

Morrilton is a neat place to spend the day, and there are some fun things to do in the historic downtown. The Morrilton Train Depot is a restored 1915-era train station with a museum and many educational displays. There is a caboose that you can walk around and onto. It’s a great photo op!

Nearby, the Rialto Theater is home to the Community Arts Center, and there are theater performances, movies, and shows throughout the year. Morrilton City Park is a great place to get out and play, or the skate park and nature trail. 

Where to play in Russellville

There are many family-friendly things to do around Russellville and many great parks to explore. City Park is one of the largest, and it has tennis courts, basketball courts, a walking trail, and multiple playgrounds.

Crawford Park has a great playground with something for older kids, too, and lots of wide open space to run and a clear view of the sky for the total eclipse. Harmon Park has a skate park and it’s right next to a new food truck development called the Corner Food Truck Hub. Check out Strikers Bowling Alley, Russellville Skate Station, or the Hour Glass Escape Room for indoor fun. 

Family fun around downtown Russellville

There’s nothing better than a fun, historic downtown, and there is so much family fun around Russellville. One of our favorites is Retro Roasts and Dog Eared Books. This charming bookstore and coffee shop is a great place to relax for a little while. The children’s section is wonderful. The coffee shop has lots of room to sit down and there are board games to enjoy.

For a cute gift shop check out Garden Sassy. Jackalope Cycling is a full-service bike shop downtown. The Plant Parlor is a must-see for the plant lovers. The Campfire Butterfly is a beautiful mural by David Freeman located outside of First Security Bank. One more must-see: the incredible wooden owl sculpture in a pocket park behind the Nicholson building on North Commerce Avenue. 

Family-friendly restaurants in Russellville 

There are so many great restaurants in Russellville that have something for everyone! Here are a few of our favorites: 

• Fat Daddy’s Barbecue
• Ridgewood Brothers Barbecue
• The Old Bank
• Wildflower Cafe – Not open on the weekends but a great option for allergy-friendly food.  
• Midtown Coffee – Main Location  – A super cute coffee shop with light food fare. 
• B Street Bakery and Deli
• Stoby’s Restaurant – This restaurant is built around a train car. 

Explore Clinton, Arkansas

Clinton, Arkansas, is about an hour’s drive northeast of Russellville. It’s home to the Natural Bridge of Arkansas, a unique natural rock formation that’s a fun stop. It has a little gift shop and museum, with an Ozark still! It’s open seasonally from mid-March to mid-November.

Clinton is also home to lots of great antique shops, like Once Upon a Time Antique Shop. Not too far from Clinton is the Antique Warehouse of Arkansas, a massive and must-see shop if you’re into antiques! It’s also a great place for photos and social media-worthy shots. 

 The Pottery Shop is a must-see while you’re there. It’s a charming gift shop with all kinds of yard art all over the outside. There are some fun photo ops outside the shop as well. Biggs Brews is a coffee truck that’s in the parking lot there. 

More things to see and do in Clinton

For breakfast, check out Joe N Hash Coffee Cafe. Nearby Archey Fork Park is a wonderful place to play, with a playground, ball fields, a volleyball court, walking trails, a fishing lake, and a creek. It’s the perfect place to watch the eclipse in Clinton, Arkansas. Across the highway is the Clinton Children’s Park and skate park. The park is connected via a walking trail to Archey Fork Park. Other places to eat include Crabby Jack’s Seafood and L’attiude Bistro.

Total solar eclipse in the Russellville area

The total solar eclipse of April 2024 will be an incredible thing to see! There are so many great places to view the eclipse around the Russellville area. While the state parks will always be our top recommendation for viewing, don’t forget about city parks and any place with a clear view of the sky.

There are festivals, concerts, and so many great events planned all over this part of the state, so be sure to check the websites and social media pages for each city in the Russellville area for updates.

Here are my top recommendations for viewing locations:

• Around Russellville:
  • Old Post Park and the Arkansas River Visitors Center
  • Riverview Park and Dardanelle Rock Area
  • Lake Dardanelle State Park
  • Mount Nebo State Park – Sunset Point
  • Crawford Park
• Around Morrilton:
  • Historic downtown 
  • Petit Jean State Park – Stout’s Point
  • Petit Jean Mountain – Public spaces with open parking lots
  • Petit Jean Mountain – Automobile Museum parking lot
• Around Clinton:
  • Archey Fork Park
  • Clinton Children’s Park

Here are a few tips for viewing a solar eclipse

Viewing a total solar eclipse is an incredible experience, especially in Arkansas. There are so many ways to enjoy family fun around Russellville, Arkansas. Wherever you plan to watch the eclipse, be sure to plan ahead. If you’re traveling to your viewing spot on the day of the eclipse, be sure to arrive as early as possible. Be respectful of private property and parking guidelines. And most importantly, wear proper eclipse glasses. Regular sunglasses will not protect your eyes from the sun. Eclipse glasses are available at all of the state parks and many businesses in each town.

Here are more tips on how to have your best eclipse experience with your kids. 

Where will you be watching the solar eclipse?

About the author 

Nichole is a writer, content creator, and family travel and adventure influencer residing in southwest Arkansas. Though she and her husband (Ryan) are originally from the Midwest, they’ve lived in Arkansas for 10 years now and are thrilled to call it home. They have homeschooled their children from the beginning of their educational journey. They have a now 12-year-old son and 9-year-old daughter, along with a one-year Direwolf Dog puppy named Levi. Nichole is an avid outdoor adventurer and road tripper and has been taking her kids on adventures by herself since they were infants. It’s all part of what she calls being responsibly brave. She is also on the Executive Team for Run Wild My Child and has contributed to Wild and Free. Be sure to follow her on Instagram and Facebook to stay up to date with all of their shenanigans.  

The post Family Fun Around Russellville, Arkansas appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

*This post is part of a sponsored series of blog posts with Arkansas Tourism about the total eclipse.

Experience the total eclipse in Arkansas

A total solar eclipse is a magical experience. My children and I traveled to Casper, Wyoming for the last eclipse and lived out of our minivan camper for a month on the road. The high point of our trip was experiencing the eclipse along the line of totality. We camped in a field directly on the center line of totality and experienced it in a way that was absolutely magical. We will never forget that life-changing experience.

If you didn’t get a chance to experience the last solar eclipse along the line of totality, don’t worry! There’s is another eclipse coming up this April 2024, and I’m thrilled to help other families have that same experience in my home state of Arkansas. The center line of totality for the 2024 eclipse bisects the state, and most of Arkansas will have excellent viewing.

One of the cities to experience totality in is Mena! Keep reading for family-friendly things to do in Mena, Arkansas, and check out our recommended itinerary. This is the first post in a series all about some of the best places to view the eclipse in Arkansas, and what you can do with your family while you’re there! 

Where is Mena, Arkansas?

Mena, Arkansas, is a charming town in west-central Arkansas. It’s near the Oklahoma border, surrounded by the Ouachita National Forest. It is in the direct line of totality for the April 2024 total solar eclipse. Mena will experience totality for four minutes and 8 seconds!

There are several festivals and events just for the eclipse happening as well. It’s a great place to visit, and there are lots of family-friendly things to do in Mena, Arkansas, and the surrounding areas. The Ouachita National Forest and mountains are nearby, and there are plenty of open spaces to play, explore, and experience the total solar eclipse!

Outdoor things to do in Mena, Arkansas

Some of the family-friendly things to do in Mena, Arkansas, include visiting the state parks! The town is lucky to have two beautiful state parks close by. Arkansas State Parks are wonderful things for families with kids of all ages to visit. There are always activities going on, so be sure to check the state park’s calendar so you don’t miss anything!

Queen Wilhelmina State Park

One of the most iconic state parks in the western half of Arkansas is Queen Wilhelmina State Park, just a quick drive up the mountains from downtown Mena. The route has two options, and I recommend taking the Talimena Scenic Drive. It’s a beautiful route that winds through the Ouachita Mountains from Mena, Arkansas to Talihina, Oklahoma. There are overlooks and scenic pull outs along the way.

In the spring, the route is dotted with wildflowers as the forest comes alive, and it’s beautiful! Be sure to plan some extra time to enjoy your drive up the mountain and back down. The entire mountaintop park is a great place to view the eclipse. 

Things to do at Queen Wilhelmina State Park

A unique thing about Queen Wilhelmina State Park is the lodge that sits perched atop the mountain. It’s a great place to stay but also a great place to just visit for the day. There is a restaurant called The Queen’s Restaurant, open daily from 7 AM to 9 PM. They have a great menu that includes some gluten-free options. The park is also home to Mountain Glory Train Station, an adorable mini train that takes all ages on a scenic ride around the mountaintop.

Family-friendly things to do in Queen Wilhelmina State Park also include going on a tour of the Wonder House and grabbing a photo next to the big steam engine. The visitor center has a cute gift shop, and the interior of the lodge has some neat history to read.

There are a few hiking trails, too. Lover’s Leap is a beautiful trail that goes around the top of the mountain with an overlook halfway through. The Reservoir Trail is another great hike for kids. Both trails are around one mile. 

Cossatot River State Park-Natural Area

Cossatot River State Park-Natural Area is a beautiful park that’s only about forty minutes from Mena. It’s a unique state park destination that’s actually one of the top whitewater kayaking spots in the state. There can be class IV and class V drops when the weather is right, including the legendary “skull crusher.” The water is only high enough for kayaking in the spring or after significant rainfall, but the Cossatot River is beautiful all year long.

The state park visitor center is a must see for families because of the wonderful nature center. It has some great hands-on learning opportunities. A playground sits next to the visitor center, and so does the Waterleaf Interpretive Trail, which is about one mile long and partially ADA accessible.

Other kid-friendly recommended hikes in Cossatot River State Park:

• Harris Creek Trail – just over 3 mile loop, moderate to challenging
• River Corridor Trail – 12 miles, following the river, you can hike sections of it. Ed Banks to Sandbar is a favorite section. You can park at both the Ed Banks river access and the Sandbar access. 

More remote areas of Cossatot River State Park

Part of what makes Cossatot River State Park-Natural Area one of our family’s favorite places to visit is the remoteness of the park. If you stop at the visitor center and ask about the Sandbar area and The Falls, they’ll give you directions for how to get there. It’s about a thirty-minute drive down the forest road.

Things to remember: 1) You’ll lose cell service, so save a map offline.  2) Please practice Leave No Trace principles and pack in what you pack out. 3) Both areas have campsites that are first come, first serve and do not have hookups. There are pit toilets at the Sandbar campground and The Falls campground.

Here are some practical tips for heading out into this remote area:

• For older children and the adventurous: pack a picnic lunch in a backpack, wear water or hiking shoes with good grip, and spend the day out on the boulders at the falls area (also known as “sheeps den”). It’s a very scrambly hike over large boulders, but there are lots of great swimming holes and places to play. It’s a great place to watch the eclipse if you don’t mind being more remote. Talk to the park interpreters for more details about how to prepare and what to expect. 
• For a calmer water play experience on the river: pack a lunch, water clothes and shoes, and some chairs and head to the sandbar area for the day. The visibility will not be quite as open, but it’s a great spot to sit and enjoy the beautiful Cossatot River. It’s a calm area that also has great fishing by the low-water bridge. 

Digging for crystals in Mena, Arkansas

Another family-friendly thing to do in Mena, Arkansas, is to go hunting for quartz crystal! The Ouachita mountain range is a hot spot for quartz crystals, and Mena has its own place to go crystal digging.

Board Camp Crystal Mine is located just southeast of Mena and it’s a great place for kids and adults of all ages, because kids under 16 dig for free! Digging for quartz crystal is a bucket list experience and you can even dig for crystals while you enjoy the total solar eclipse! Board Camp Crystal Mine offers a more holistic approach to crystal digging, and while they do not open any large rock veins in the earth, they welcome surface hunting and shallow digging to find the treasures. 

Bigfoot and the UnXplained

In 2016, Board Camp Crystal Mine started having odd and unexplained events. So many, in fact, that they shut down their yearly folk music festival to focus on understanding what was going on. From strange lights, to levitating rocks, to Bigfoot footprints, they’ve had a little bit of everything happen at their property.

As an add-on to crystal digging or its own experience, you can go on one of their “unexplained tours” to learn all about what has transpired at their property over the last six years! Whether you believe or not, it’s a fascinating learning opportunity. 

Blue Zip Line and Farm

Did you know that there’s also a zip line? It’s one of the best family-friendly things to do in Mena, Arkansas. Blue Zipline and Farm offers a full zipline tour, along with camping spots with RV hookups. They have 160 acres and can offer full concierge services to set you up with a wide range of experiences, including ATVs, fishing, and hiking.

The zip lines are so much fun for families, and there are two really fast lines at this place! All participants must sign a waiver. The requirements are at least 5 years old, at least 60 pounds, and no more than 275 pounds. Children aged 5 to 15 must be accompanied by an adult. Be sure to reserve your time slot ahead of time, especially during the eclipse festival! 

Other outdoor adventures near Mena, Arkansas

There are so many family-friendly things to do in and around the Mena area and so many great outdoor adventures. Because of its location in the Ouachita National Forest, there are lots of outdoor recreation opportunities. Here are some more fun ways to explore the outdoors:

• Wolf Pen Gap ATV Trails – Rent ATVs and/or go camping. 
• Buckeye Mountain and Caney Creek Loop – 10-mile hiking loop, one of our most favorite hikes in Arkansas. This is a strenuous hike, especially for a day hike. My children have done it with me, but please be prepared for a hard day hike. It’s also a great backpacking loop. Catch a sneak peek of the trail here. 
• Shady Lake Recreation Area 
• Other hikes: Shady Lake Trail, Settler’s Ridge, and more hikes on AllTrails. 
• Ouachita National Recreation Trail passes through the area. 
• There are over 20 geocaches in the Mena area! What’s geocaching? Read more here. 
• Disc golf is another great free, family friendly thing to do in Mena, here’s a great course. 

Parks and playgrounds inn Mena, Arkansas

Mena, Arkansas, has several wonderful parks within the city limits as well. The parks have lots of wide open spaces that are a great place to view the total solar eclipse. Be sure to plan out your day to arrive early and grab a spot. 

• Janssen Park – the large park near downtown Mena. It offers a playground, splash pad, basketball court, natural spring and beautiful walking paths. The park also features a 100-year-old log cabin that’s said to have been a hideout for Jesse James! 
• McMillan Park – seasonal swimming pool, pavilions, playgrounds and picnic area. 
• Aubrey Tapley Park – sports fields, tennis courts, two playgrounds, and a walking/biking trail. 

Indoor family-friendly activities in Mena

While Mena, Arkansas, is a hot spot for outdoor recreation, there are still plenty of things to do indoors in the town. The historic downtown is charming and offers great specialty and gift shops to explore.

Here are a few of our favorite indoor things to do in Mena, Arkansas:

• The historic KCS train depot. This beautiful train depot has a free museum with lots of great history about the area, as well as the Chamber of Commerce. Be sure to stop outside for a photo with the fully restored 1939 police cruiser! 
• Mena Silver Screen – Small movie theater showing current films. 
• Ouachita Little Theater – A historic community theater right in downtown Mena. Be sure to check their website for events. 
• Art galleries and boutiques – downtown Mena has several incredible galleries filled with work from local artists. A few of our favorites were the American Artisans Eatery and Gallery, and Mena Art Gallery
• The Market Alehouse and Mercantile

Mena, Arkansas, coffee shops and cafes

In our family, finding all the local coffee shops and cafes is a must! Mena has several great spots that are family-friendly and a must-see when you’re in town for the total solar eclipse in Arkansas. 

• Our personal favorite, which is a one-stop shop for coffee in the morning and a tap house and pizzeria for dinner, is The Ouachitas. 
• The Q on Main serves coffee, ice cream, and a limited food menu. It’s also cute as can be and full of great photo ops. 
• Sherwood Bistro is right across from the historic train depot. It has a great food menu, plus good coffee! PS – they have gluten-free bread and lots of baked potato options for allergy-friendly meals. 
• Cossatot Grounds Cafe is on Highway 71 in nearby Wickes and a great place to stop on your way to or from Cossatot River State Park-Natural Area. They also share a building with a Mexican restaurant, and both have food menus. 

Family-friendly places to eat in Mena

Our number one favorite place to eat in Mena is The Ouachitas. They have a great menu with a range of options. But best of all, they have a gluten-free crust for pizza and hard cider on tap for adults with gluten allergies. It’s also a beautiful restaurant with a newly added outdoor dining porch.

For lunch, American Artisans Eatery and Bistro have gluten-free bread and a full menu of options. Cruizzers Drive In is a great place for families and is a retro-style drive-in restaurant, with some photo characters out front for photo ops.

Simple Simons is another great spot for pizza. For an upscale dining experience, check out Chopping Block Steakhouse, and be sure to make a reservation ahead of time if you do! 

Where to stay in Mena, Arkansas

The best place to stay in Mena, in my opinion, is Ouachita Wilde Luxury Tents. At the time of this publishing, they are not booked yet for the eclipse! This beautiful space is run by a mother-and-daughter team and features multiple glamping tents in a gorgeous private setting not far from downtown Mena. They can also do mobile setups and backyard parties.

Other unique stays include Be Boppers Inn and Youngblood Country Cabins. There are also many campgrounds, HipCamp sites, and Airbnb sites available around the Mena area. Check here for more lodging options. 

Sample itinerary for the eclipse in Mena, Arkansas

To help take the stress out of planning your trip, here’s a day-by-day breakdown with an itinerary of family-friendly things to do in Mena, Arkansas. 

Day before the eclipse

• • Pack a lunch. 
  • Grab coffee and breakfast at Cossatot Grounds Coffee Shop then drive to Cossatot River State Park-Natural Area 
  • Enjoy the visitor center and learn about the park, try the Waterleaf Interpretive Trail. 
  • Hike the Harris Creek Trail Loop. 
  • Drive to the Falls area and enjoy a picnic lunch. 
  • After lunch, explore the Falls area, or head to the Sandbar area to play. 
  • Drive back to where you’re staying and get cleaned up. 
  • Dinner at The Ouachitas in downtown Mena. 

The day of the eclipse

• • Grab coffee and breakfast at The Ouachitas. 
  • Explore downtown Mena. 
  • Get to your eclipse viewing location AT LEAST two hours before the eclipse begins. Totality occurs at 1:45 PM, so plan on being in your post by 11 AM at a minimum. I’d recommend going earlier. Bring some games and activities, and don’t forget your eclipse glasses!
    • For more tips on having your best eclipse experience with kids look here. 
  • Get dinner at Cruizzers or Simple Simons. 

Day after the eclipse

• • Breakfast and coffee at Sherwood Bistro. 
  • Check out the KCS Historic Train depot and grab a photo with the police cruiser. 
  • Go digging for crystals at Board Camp Crystal Mine. Pack a lunch to stay the day or head back to town for lunch when you’re done.
  • Lunch at American Artisans Eatery and Gallery. 
  • Go ziplining at Blue Zip Line and Farm. 
  • Dinner at Chopping Block Steakhouse. 
  • Dessert at The Q on Main. 

Experience the total solar eclipse in Mena, Arkansas

A total solar eclipse is an incredible event. This will be the third time in Arkansas history to experience a total eclipse. The last one was in 1918! Viewing it as a family is sure to be a memorable event. There are so many unique family-friendly things to do in Mena, and it’s the perfect spot to view the eclipse.

The top three locations I would recommend to view the eclipse are 1) Queen Wilhelmina State Park, 2) any of the city parks in and around Mena, and 3) Board Camp Crystal Mine or Blue Zip Line.

For the adventurous, I recommend The Falls area at Cossatot River State Park, or anywhere along the ridgeline on the Buckeye Mountain Trail. I hope you and your family get to have the experience of a lifetime and that you enjoy exploring all that the Mena, Arkansas, area has to offer! 

Have you made plans for the April 2024 eclipse yet?

About the author

Nichole is a writer, content creator, and family travel and adventure influencer residing in southwest Arkansas. Though she and her husband are originally from the Midwest, they’ve lived in Arkansas for ten years now and are thrilled to call it home. They have homeschooled their children from the beginning of their educational journey. They have a now 12-year-old son and 9-year-old daughter, along with a one-year Direwolf Dog puppy. Nichole is an avid outdoor adventurer and road tripper and has been taking her kids on adventures by herself since they were infants, it’s all part of what she calls being responsibly brave. She is also on the Executive Team for Run Wild My Child and has contributed to Wild and Free. Be sure to follow her on Instagram and Facebook to stay up to date with all of their shenanigans.

The post Family Friendly Things to Do in Mena, Arkansas appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

Why Bentonville, Arkansas?

Northwest Arkansas is an ideal playground for outdoor families! Whether you’re into art, hiking, biking, exploring, or a foodie, there’s something for every member of the family. Bentonville, in particular, is a delightful destination for families seeking a relaxing, affordable, and easy vacation. You may have heard of Bentonville, as it’s the home and headquarters of Wal-Mart, but it’s so much more than that! It’s become famous for being a top-notch outdoorsy destination with so many fun things to offer families. 

While there are always new places popping up around Bentonville, and the surrounding areas, we’ve put together a list of our top ten kid-friendly outdoor adventures and fun activities in northwest Arkansas. Keep reading for more! 

1. Crystal Bridges art museum and grounds

The Crystal Bridges Art Museum is world-class, and (the best thing about it), it’s totally FREE! If you have the time, it’s absolutely worth taking a stroll inside to view the galleries. The permanent collection features works by well-known artists from the US and around the globe. Plus, the rotating exhibits and special events are always worth seeing as well. There is sometimes a minimal fee for traveling exhibits.

The outdoor grounds and walking trail around Crystal Bridges are worth visiting, too! The trail through the North Forest is filled with fascinating sculptures, and the path is easy to walk. Most of the trails surrounding the museum are stroller friendly. Finally, be sure to check out the walkway around the west side of the upper pond by the museum; it will lead you a stone cave that’s filled with Arkansas quartz crystal!

The Crystal Bridges trail also connects up to Compton Gardens, which you can walk through any time of year, and will eventually lead you toward downtown Bentonville. Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art and the trails surrounding are great places to visit for kids of all ages! 

On the trails around Crystal Bridges Museum of Art by Nichole Holze (@coleyraeh)

2. Historic Bentonville square

This beautiful square is in the center of downtown Bentonville. It’s a fun place to explore all year round, connecting to downtown businesses and nearby trails. The original Walton Five & Dime sits just on the square, which is a super fun photo op for the whole family. You can even take a tour of the Walmart museum or grab some ice cream a the general store there.

During the warmer months, the Bentonville Farmer’s Market happens every Saturday, and it’s such a fun way to spend your morning exploring. The downtown square also boasts some fantastic dining, and nearby are two of my favorites: Onyx Coffee Lab and Sunny’s. Be sure to check also check out Ozark Bagel Company, just off the main square.

There are also all kinds of biking and running events that begin or end in the square, so be sure to check the community calendar to see what’s going on during your visit. Downtown Bentonville keeps a great calendar. 

Walton’s Five & Dime on the Square by Desiree Macke (@desireemacke)

3. Railyard Park in Rogers

Railyard Park is a kid-friendly adventure in northwest Arkansas that you do not want to miss! This park is located along the Razorback Greenway trail in downtown Rogers, and you’ll know it when you see it. The park has ample space to sit for a picnic, an amphitheater, and the most epic playground!

There are a series of decorated water towers that designate the splash pad area. The playground features tunnels and climbing structures, and best of all, clean bathrooms! If you’re ready for a bike ride, nearby, the Railyard Bike Park has a pump track for younger children, plus more challenging trails for older kids and adults. There is a two-story, shaded viewing area to watch the action.

Pro tip: stop at Onyx Coffee Lab’s headquarters to pick up coffee and a treat before you walk over to the park. This park is the perfect place to enjoy an outside treat while the kids play! 

Railyard Park in Rogers, Arkansas by Emily Allen (@theuntetheredlife)

4. Lake Atalanta City Park

This incredible city park in Rogers, Arkansas, has been renovated and restored since it originally opened in 1936. Lake Atalanta City Park features over ten miles of trails (hiking and biking), plus a beautiful (paved) two-mile loop around the lake. One of our favorite features is the boardwalk over the lake with places for fishing. There’s also a great spillway toward the back of the lake, just off the trail.

The delightful playground has unique climbing structures, a pavilion, and a garden. It’s easy to spend a few hours or even half a day at this park, and it’s great for kids of all ages. There are plenty of nature trails that connect in and out of Lake Atalanta if you’d like to explore even further. Be sure to check out the cistern, and follow the paved path next to the creek as it runs under the road. Added bonus: tire all the kids out as you walk back up the hill toward Railway park. 

Lake Atalanta Park playground by Nichole Holze (@coleyraeh)

5. Osage Park and Lake Bentonville 

One of the newest parks in the Bentonville area, Osage park, is right at Lake Bentonville. This brand-new 12-acre park features pickleball courts, hiking trails, a wildflower prairie, wetlands, and even an archery range. The boardwalk over the wetlands is a great place to observe nature. See if your kids can spot the beaver home, along with snakes, waterfowl, and other water-loving creatures.

The Quiver, has twenty archery lanes and offers hourly rentals or memberships for ages eight and up. If you follow the walking trails over toward Thaden Field airstrip, you’ll find a fantastic playground, and a spot to rent kayaks or paddleboards. For food, stop by Louise at Thaden Field to eat your meal while you watch airplanes take off and land. Osage park also features various food trucks and a permanent coffee hut by Java Dudes. 

Osage Park Boardwalk by Nichole Holze (@coleyraeh)

6. Coler Bike Park

One of the best kid-friendly adventures in northwest Arkansas is Coler Bike Preserve. This incredibly unique natural space features over 17 miles of single-track biking trail, plus easy-flow trails for all ages. It’s a great place for kids to try out their skills on mountain bike trails. There is a paved walkway that runs the entire length of the park, from the north to the south, connecting parking lots.

Airship Coffee is located in the very middle of the park, one mile from either parking lot, and is only accessible by trail. (How fun is that?!) There’s a beautiful stream running through the entire property, and a spot to explore while you enjoy some coffee or a snack. At the coffeehouse, there’s also a play structure hidden inside a historic barn.

If you’re ready to tire the kids out, be sure to check out the newly opened “The Rise,” a staircase that is equivalent to 11 stories of stairs and takes you to the Hub part of the park. Plan on spending at least half a day at Coler. The preserve has a campground with elevated platforms for tents and a few spots for van-type campers. 

Paradise found at Coler Bike Park by Nichole Holze (@coleyraeh)

7. Tanyard Creek Nature Trail in Bella Vista

Blowing Springs park is located in Bella Vista, Arkansas, just to the north of Bentonville. The trail systems that run through there connect up to the Back 40 and other trails. For a hiking adventure, take the Tanyard Creek loop trail. The two-mile loop features a waterfall and a beautiful meandering creek. The creek is an especially fun place to play on a hot day. We recommend wearing shoes that can get wet and packing a picnic lunch. Take your time exploring all the trails, and see if you can stumble across the swinging suspension bridge! 

Tanyard Creek Loop by Nichole Holze (@coleyraeh)

8. 8th Street Market and The Momentary

Another unique and kid-friendly adventure in northwest Arkansas is the 8th Street Market area in Bentonville. The market features various restaurants, breweries, and shops. The outside of the market also has some incredible murals and public art, so be sure to walk around the whole building. At the north end of the market, there’s a massive boulder that you can climb on! The bouldering rock is meant to be played on, and it’s a great place to let the kids try their skills. See if you (or your kids) can (safely) reach the top and grab a great view of the park surrounding the market.

For more fun around the 8th Street Market, check out the nearby Mama Bear trail and skills park. Or, walk over to The Momentary to check out the art both on the inside and the outside. The Momentary features a coffee shop with a walk-up window to order Onyx Coffee. But, be sure to take a peek inside because the entire shop is perfectly Instagram-worthy. If you’re looking for a more traditional playground for your kids, Austin Baggett Park is just across the street from The Momentary, and walkable from 8th Street Market. 

The Bentonville Boulder at 8th St. Market by Emily Allen (@theuntetheredlife)

9. Park Springs Park

Park Springs Park in Bentonville is located very close to the downtown area. It’s a peaceful and beautiful park with plenty of amenities. There is a pavilion, playground, picnic tables, a dog station, restrooms, and plenty of parking.

As you explore the park, you’ll see pathways that lead down into the ravine. In the ravine, there’s a creek. The creek is spring-fed, and you can actually see where the spring water bubbles out of the side of the mountain! There are lots of neat places to explore around the creek bed and trails. There are multiple trails that run through Park Springs Park, including Black Apple Creek. 

Park Springs Park creek by Kate Pantier (@katepantier)

10. The Razorback Greenway

The Razorback Greenway is the longest trail in northwest Arkansas, and it’s almost entirely kid friendly! This multi-use, mostly paved trail runs from south of Fayetteville, all the way up to Bella Vista. It’s 37 miles long and connects cities along the way. The main trail connects to almost every other trail system in the area.

The Greenway makes for a great first bike-packing trip, or just a fun way to explore the area via two wheels. There are plenty of parks, restaurants, coffee shops, breweries, and more just off the trail in Rogers, Fayetteville, Bentonville, and Bella Vista. 

A section of the Razorback Greenway trail by Nichole Holze (@coleyraeh)

Other things to check out in Northwest Arkansas

Northwest Arkansas has so much to offer for outdoor, family-friendly activities. Beyond the main cities and metropolitan areas, there are state parks and more natural centers to explore. Each of the places listed below are an hour to just over an hour away from the Bentonville area. Here are a few of our favorites:

• Devil’s Den State Park
• J.B. and Johnelle Hunt Family Ozark Highlands Nature Center
• Hobbs Conservation Area
• War Eagle Mill
• Beaver Lake
• Siloam Springs Kayak Park

Devil’s Den State Park by Nichole Holze (@coleyraeh)

Even more family-friendly adventures in Northwest Arkansas

Did you enjoy this post? Guess what? We have even more for you!

Executive Team member Nichole Holze created a Get Out Guide for Bentonville and the Northwest Arkansas area. Our Get Out Guides are curated just for outdoorsy families and feature all of the best OUTDOOR places to play, explore, learn, and dine, with a focus on nature and adventure. The Bentonville Get Out Guide is the first one we completed, and our list of cities keeps growing! We also offer Get Out Guides for St. Louis, Cape Cod, and Virginia Beach, with more coming soon!

More travel resources

Do you love finding awesome hidden gems when traveling? Want to know our secrets for finding the best outdoor kid-friendly places? We’re sharing six of our favorite (tried and tested) resources for finding unique outdoor family-friendly activities when traveling (and in your own hometown).

Click the button below to download our FREE resource – 6 Travel Resources for Outdoorsy Families. This is guaranteed to help you find unique and fun things to do outside with our kids when planning and researching trips. You’ll also be signed up to receive our weekly newsletter filled with easy outdoor activities to do with your kids, fun nature crafts, outdoor recipes, kid-friendly travel ideas, gear recommendations, favorite books, and so much more!

Don’t worry; we’ll only send you the good stuff. You can unsubscribe anytime.

6 TRAVEL RESOURCES

About the author

Nichole is mama to two incredible adventurers, an older boy, and a younger girl, and they are in their seventh year of homeschooling. She is married to her best friend, and they share a mutual love for the outdoors. An Iowan native now living in the south, she is happy to claim Arkansas as home. She is a wanderlust (and coffee) fueled, fearless, road-tripper who has been known to take off for epic adventures at a moment’s notice.

Hiking and camping (of the backpacking variety) and crystal digging are a few of their favorite family activities. You can usually find her in the woods somewhere (probably up a creek and jumping off waterfalls), or on an epic road-tripping adventure with the kids. Nichole is also the Editor in Chief of the Run Wild My Child Get Out Guides – travel guides aimed at helping families find the best local outdoor adventures and outings in their area and while traveling. 

You can find more from Nichole online in the following locations:
Website: www.luckeywanderers.com
Instagram: @coleyraeh
RWMC posts: Nichole

The post 10 Kid Friendly Adventures in NW Arkansas appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

**Sponsored post. Nichole worked with Eureka Springs tourism and local businesses for a hosted stay in exchange for the content shared. All views and opinions expressed belong to the author. **

Why plan a trip to Eureka Springs, Arkansas?

Many years ago, when my husband and I were just dating, we took a road trip to Arkansas. At the time, we lived in Iowa and made the trip down south to go backpacking. During our Arkansas adventure, we stumbled into a little hidden gem of a town called Eureka Springs and then onto an incredible place called Turpentine Creek.

Turpentine Creek is a 450-acre refuge for neglected, abused, and abandoned big cats. My husband and I toured the facitiy and were moved and saddened to hear the stories of the animals. However, the animals’ stories didn’t stop there and they are all given a happy ending at Turpentine Creek.

Fast forward just a few years, and a few kids later. I recently learned that the Turpentine Creek refuge offers summer camps for kids! I jumped on the chance to sign my son (an aspiring wildlife biologist) up for camp, and we started planning our adventure to Eureka Springs! 

A little more about Turpentine Creek

Turpentine Creek was founded in 1991, and its story is worth reading. Over the years, they have rescued countless tigers, lions, servals, mountain lions, plus a few bears. (A real-life “lions, and tigers, and bears, oh my!”) They are a true animal sanctuary – meaning the sanctuary is a non-profit, does not breed their animals, and they do not engage in any “hands-on” activities such as photo opportunities or cub petting. Those hands-on experiences are detrimental to the health of animals.

However, that doesn’t mean that you can’t get up close and personal with the animals. You can visit Turpentine Creek and go on a tour and meet them in a safe, non-invasive environment. The stories you’ll hear on the tour will both break your heart and bring you joy. Animals that make their way to Eureka Springs and Turpentine Creek will find a forever home and they can live out the rest of their lives in peace and comfort. 

How you can help the animals

Turpentine Creek is a non-profit entity, but there are many ways that you can help. In fact, Turpentine Creek relies on public support for all of the funding to help these animals fed and cared for. You can visit in person and go on a tour or schedule a virtual tour with an animal interpreter. You can schedule a “big cat callout” where you can customize some enrichment for an animal of your choice.

But if you’re looking for the most amazing and immersive experience, I highly recommend staying onsite. Lodging accommodations at Turpentine Creek consist of the following options: (1) two cabins, (2) an adults-only safari tent village, and (3) family-friendly safari tents. When you stay on-site you get to go on a tour, have access to viewing the animals before the gates open to the public each morning, and get to hear the big cats “caroling” in the evening and early morning. It’s quite the experience! 

A floating adventure on Beaver Lake

During the day, while my son attended camp at Turpentine Creek, my daughter and I got to go on some local adventures. On the first day, we went to Float Eureka, on the historic Eureka Springs loop. We rented inflatable stand-up paddleboards for the day and spent time together on the water. Float Eureka supplied us with everything we needed, the boards, the pumps, the skeg, paddles, and life jackets. My daughter and I had so much fun exploring a remote corner of Beaver Lake; the water was so clear! Float Eureka also offers kayak rentals and float trips with shuttles. 

Pro tip: Bring some watercolors and a nature journal with you in your dry-bag. Painting while relaxing on a stand-up paddleboard is perfection. 

A historic train ride and dinner date

Eureka Springs is also home to a historic railroad! For dinner on our second night, I booked us a reservation for the dinner train experience on the Eureka Springs and Northern Arkansas Railway. Talk about a unique adventure!

The railroad offers three ride options: a scenic route, a lunch train, and the more formal dinner train. They have a menu to choose from when you book your ticket, but they will also adjust for food allergies or dietary restrictions if you email ahead of time. They were more than accommodating for my Celiac Disease and food allergies and even made me a fruit plate in place of the desert!

My kids were delighted when they realized we got to eat dinner on a moving train. The conductor rolled out the red carpet, and we boarded for a delightful two-and-a-half-hour ride. Be sure to watch out the windows the whole way for some railroad history! Check out a video of our ride on this Reel.

Pro tip: The dinner train may not be best for very small children (you have to be able to sit still for a while as you’re contained to a train car). Also, be sure to book ahead of time, especially in the autumn months as it fills up quickly! 

Exploring downtown Eureka Springs

After our train ride, we decided to walk around downtown to explore the area and snap some fun photos. The historic downtown of Eureka Springs seems to be carved right into the side of a mountain and it’s so picturesque! There are some iconic photo ops that are especially fun without the crowds.

We spent way too much time playing on the colorful murals on the stairs (there are two!). Just outside of the Basin Park Hotel is another fun spot for pictures. When you’re exploring Eureka Springs, make sure you have your walking shoes on! The cute shops, art galleries, and restaurants wind all the way up the mountainside. A few of our favorite shops downtown were: Tee Rex Toys, Secret Garden, Gazebo Books, and GameMakers. 

The eats in Eureka Springs

Eureka Springs has great restaurants everywhere! There’s a place to satisfy everyone in your family with a wide range of restaurants. My kids and I loved BaseCamp Eureka so much that we went there twice! This cute café and coffee shop is closer to the Great Passion Play area. P.S. – it’s worth a peek at the Christ of the Ozarks statue just to go see it.

My kids enjoyed alligator sausage pizza on our first visit (yes, they actually ate it!), and my daughter loved the English muffin toast. Another great coffee shop is Eureka Springs Coffee House. They have a big menu with options for kids, great coffee, and all kinds of card and board games to play. A few more restaurants that come highly recommended: Local Flavor, Three Bird Café, Red’s Pizza, and The Spring on Main. 

Another unique dinner spot

On our last night in Eureka Springs, we went to check out one more dinner spot that I found on Instagram.  The Frisco Sporting Club is an outdoor dining and hang-out spot located at the Crescent Hotel. The hotel is a neat place to stay if you’d like to experience a historic (and maybe haunted!) hotel. It also features a pool and spa.

The sporting club is behind the hotel pool and has all kinds of outdoor games, a food truck, and a bar. It rained on us a bit while we were there, but it was short-lived, and my kids loved playing shuffleboard, giant Jenga, giant chess, and trying out the swings (even in the rain). They also have axe-throwing and a variety of yard games. You can enjoy live music most nights from 7 to 9 pm.

My kids loved the giant cheeseburgers from the food truck, and the onsite bar can make just about anything! It’s worth a stop for a relaxed and fun evening outdoors. 

A few favorite things about Eureka Springs

Eureka Springs, Arkansas is a little quirky and a whole lot of fun. Thanks to the wide range of activities, outdoor adventure, places to stay, and restaurants, we’re pleased to make it a Run Wild Recommends destination.

Here are a few of our favorite things about Eureka Springs:

• Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge – a MUST visit, even if you’re just passing through. They also have lots of information available online about their cats plus sponsorship opportunities. Be sure to follow their social media pages for videos of their animals. 
• Beaver Lake – the East side of Beaver Lake is only a few minutes from downtown Eureka Springs and offers lots of aquatic recreation. We recommend doing a guided trip or renting gear from Float Eureka. 
• The historic train – for a short and sweet (but still amazing) ride, go for the scenic route. 
• Historic downtown Eureka Springs – wear your walking shoes to check out all of the shops and restaurants along the historic main street. 
• Lake Leatherwood – for hiking and biking trails around a lake. 
• Harmon Park – has a skate park, dog park, and the site for some Opera in the Ozarks. 
• Ozark Mountain Ziplines
• Nearby Blue Spring Heritage Center
• Thorncrown Chapel

Add Eureka Springs, Arkansas to your bucket list

Eureka Springs is one of the many charming cities to be found in Arkansas. At its heart, it’s a community of artists and creatives who have happily moved counterculture for decades. It’s also home to a 4,000 amphitheater that puts on a production of The Passion Play, and its own giant Christ statue, Christ of the Ozarks. There are many natural springs flowing from the mountains, and some have a special history with tales of powers to magnetize metal objects.

It’s a city with folklore, legends, and haunted spaces. Eureka Springs is a place you’ll never forget, and the memories of your trip there will make you smile. Oh, and by the way, if you go to Turpentine Creek, please say hi to Bam Bam for us. He’s one special Grizzly. 

One more note on Turpentine Creek

I’d like to encourage you to take some time to look around Turpentine Creek’s website. You can also follow them on Facebook and Instagram to see updates about their animals. If your family would like to help support the animals, you can sponsor or adopt an animal, purchase an enrichment activity for them, or even take an in-person or virtual field trip.

If you’re traveling through the area, I recommend staying on-site for at least one night. The big cats at Turpentine Creek also love to get surprises with boxes and special gifts made with old spices, herbs, and even old perfume or cologne! So, if you have any of those around you, box them up and send them to the animal care team! Or maybe, your kids would like to attend camp. Be sure to sign up for their email list because the camps sell out quickly! 

If you want more info on Northwest Arkansas

If you just can’t get enough Arkansas or want some guidance planning a trip to Eureka Springs and the Northwest Arkansas area, be sure to check out our Bentonville Get Out Guide. Our Get Out Guides are the ultimate guide to outdoor, family-friendly, vacation destinations! The closest airport is Fayetteville, and the airlines that serve it are Allegiant, American, Breeze, Delta, Frontier, and United. 

For even more shenanigans

For more adventures and shenanigans, in Arkansas and beyond, follow Nichole on Instagram at @coleyraeh. You can also subscribe to her once every few months (ish) newsletter, Field Notes.  You can also purchase her Responsibly Brave e-book, a 12-week guide to getting out and solo adventuring with your kids. Check it out here. 

About the author

Nichole is mama to two incredible adventurers, an older boy and a younger girl. They are in their seventh year of homeschooling. She’s married to her best friend, and they share a mutual love for the outdoors. An Iowan native now living in the south, she is happy to claim Arkansas as home. She is a wanderlust (and coffee) fueled, fearless road tripper who has been known to take off for epic adventures at a moment’s notice. Hiking, camping (of the backpacking variety), and crystal digging are some of their favorite family activities. You can find her in the woods somewhere, probably up a creek and jumping off waterfalls.

You can find more from Nichole online in the following locations:
Website: www.luckeywanderers.com
Instagram: @coleyraeh
RWMC posts: Nichole

The post Eureka Springs, Arkansas with Kids appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

Exploring outdoors Arkansas

Six years ago, our family moved from the Midwest to southern Arkansas. At the time, we had no idea just how much adventure there was to be found in Arkansas. It may not sound like the most interesting state, but there are so many amazing things to do in Arkansas!

As an outdoors-loving family, we are always seeking out new ways to explore the world around us. From hiking to swimming in hot springs, climbing mountains to exploring mines, Arkansas has some of the most amazing natural wonders in the entire Midwest.

We’ve now lived in Arkansas for nearly six years, and we are still finding new ways to spend time together outside! 

Arkansas’s unique geology

Last fall, as part of our homeschool studies, I started searching for information about geology in Arkansas. It wasn’t long before we realized that Arkansas is one of the best places in the world for digging for crystals! What I learned was incredible! Arkansas has several veins of high quality, often clear, quartz that formed in the Ouachita mountain range, in central Arkansas.

Quartz is a very common mineral, the second most common on earth and forms under a wide variety of conditions. However, according to geologists, there are only two places in the world with quartz of such high clarity and quality: Arkansas and Brazil. 

A new favorite family hobby emerged and now we enjoy heading out to treasure hunt all winter long. 

Arkansas diamond mining

Arkansas is also home to one of two places in the world where the general public can mine for diamonds. Crater of Diamonds State Park, also in central Arkansas, is open year-round for diamond hunting. 

This was actually where we started our journey of geology studies. While the idea of digging for diamonds was very exciting, we walked away feeling like it wasn’t the best option for our family. It is a very unique experience. While there are chances to find a diamond, it is a lot of work for little reward.

People do find diamonds though! In fact, just the other day a woman found a 3-carat diamond by surface searching. However, the stones are usually very small and not as easy to find, especially for kids. It is still a fun thing to try your luck at, but bear in mind that it may not be as rewarding for children.

A guide for Arkansas crystal hunting

I continued my research and learned that we were very close to one of the best places to mine for quartz crystal! We chose to visit Ron Coleman Crystal Mine, near Hot Springs, Arkansas. This is a commercial quartz mine that often produces some of the most beautiful (and massive) clusters in the world.

In my searching, I also came across an Instagram page run by the nicest couple. Betsy and Dillon of Passion and Prospect were more than willing to help guide us in our geology journey. They answered our questions and even got us started on where to dig.

If you aren’t local to Arkansas and are interested in some crystals from the place that we dig, watch their page as they often have crystals for sale! 

Crystal mining supplies

In the days leading up to our dig, we started a “crystal corner” in our garage to stage our supplies for the weekend. In our research, we learned what tools were allowed at the mine and which were not. While the commercial part of the mine is not open to the public (except for tours), the “tailings” pile is. The tailings area is where the mining trucks bring dump truckloads of dirt and rock up from the commercial mine. 

The mine has tools available to rent if needed. However, we thought it would be best to bring our own.

What to bring when digging for crystals with kids

In our corner, we gathered the following:

• Two, 5-gallon buckets
• Hand tools for gardening, including small spades and shovels
• Gloves, for us and for our children
• Old shoes or rain boots
• Old clothes that we didn’t mind ruining
• Hats and sun protection
• A collapsible or folding wagon 

The day of the dig

The crystal mine is about a two-hour drive for us, so we got up early and had breakfast in the car. The mine does not have food available, so I highly recommend you pack a lunch and lots of snacks and water. I figured my children may lose interest in digging for crystals if we weren’t finding anything and snacks make everything better.

Arriving at the mine, you stop at the main office and store to pay your entrance fee and sign the waivers. We were so excited to see a HUGE crystal point sitting just outside the main entrance. The store has some amazing examples of what you could find in the mine. It’s also a great place to stop if you are only passing through and don’t have time to dig. The selection of rocks and minerals is outstanding!

Head out to the mine

After going over the waivers and rules, we jumped back in our car to drive down the hill and into the public mining area. It is a dirt road and parking lot, so be prepared for red mud right away.

We visited Ron Coleman mine for the first time the weekend just after our trip to the diamond mine. Within minutes of stepping out of the car, both of my children were shouting their excitement because the ground was sparkling! A vastly different response compared to the diamond mine, and immediate gratification for young children.

We didn’t have a wagon with us on our first trip but we have since added it to our crystal digging supplies. It’s great for hauling your tools to where you want to dig, along with all of your snacks and water.

Digging for crystals with kids

We selected a spot to start digging for crystals and set to work. Both of my children were so excited to play and explore. There is no running allowed in the dig area, so be sure to instruct your children. It’s for their own safety, as there are large boulders and rocks everywhere.

For smaller children, there is an area to the left side (while facing the main entrance from the parking lot) that is flatter and less dangerous. For the really small ones, a carrier or portable play yard may be best to keep them safe.

Our day passed quickly as we were completely focused on the task of digging for crystals. It was easy to stay focused because we were finding quartz treasures within minutes!

We found crystals ranging from milky white to clear, in all shapes and sizes! We were so grateful to have chosen a cool day to go dig because there is no shade available in the digging area. It’s quite a good workout to sort through the dirt and rocks. By lunchtime, we were all in need of a short break to refuel. 

An afternoon well spent

While digging for crystals, the rest of our day passed rapidly. My children enjoyed playing among the boulders and rocks once they had found their fill of quartz. My husband and I worked ourselves to exhaustion digging. Each of us got more excited with the improving clarity of the quartz we found.

By the end of the day, we both knew we found a new favorite hobby. The mine closes at 4:30 pm, and by 4:15 pm we were cleaning up our dig area. The large buckets we brought were nearly full with crystals waiting to be cleaned.

We had spent the most beautiful day together outside, on our own little treasure hunt. Warmed by the autumn sun and completely exhausted from our day, we picked up our buckets and went back to our car, all of us smiling from ear to ear.

Things to note about crystal digging

Ron Coleman crystal mine also has tours available as well as a zip line. We haven’t done either yet but they sure look like fun! Here are a few things to remember:

• There are no bathrooms at the dig site, you must go to the campground or back up to the main office. 
• You are allowed to take out all you can carry out. 
• Bring lots of water, more than you think you’ll need. 
• Pack a lunch and snacks. 
• The clothes you wear to dig in will most likely be stained with the iron in the soil. Wear old clothes you don’t mind ruining. 
• Remember to bring a change of clothes. We find it easiest to lay down towels and ride in our car over to the campground area to get cleaned up. There is a fee for the showers but no fee to change clothing. 
• We have also changed at our car, bringing large t-shirts for the kids to be able to change under and I bring a dress to throw over an undershirt to change out of my dirt-covered clothes. 
• The office workers LOVE to see what you find so feel free to stop back up there and show them your finds! You just might get featured on their social media channels. 

Ron Coleman Crystal Mine nearby attractions

There is camping available at the mine as well, complete with a bathroom and showers and hookups for RVs. Nearby, in the town of Hot Springs there are several great restaurants, as well as more lodging and camping.

My favorite, Kollective coffee, offers vegan food options and has a huge tea selection along with great coffee. Hot Springs is also home to a National Park and has a wonderful visitor center that you can tour for free, along with two Junior Ranger programs.

Nearby, in the town of Mt. Ida, there are also several other crystal mines. We have also visited Wegner Crystal Mine and Twin Creek Crystal Mine. However, Ron Coleman is always our go-to favorite place to dig. 

Cleaning your crystals

We spent some time talking with the office staff about the best way to clean the crystals. The very clear points often come clean with a simple water wash. However, to remove the iron staining it’s necessary to do more than that. Ron Coleman sells oxalic acid, in its crystal form. You can place your crystals in a very weak oxalic acid and water mixture to remove the red stains. This can be done with a ratio of 1/2 to one cup of oxalic acid added to one gallon of water. 

Crystal cleaning tips

• Always clean your crystals outside! Clay and dirt can clog interior pipes on your sink or bathtub. 
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently clear away dirt and debris from your crystals. 
• If you’re using an acid bath to remove staining: ALWAYS add acid to water, not water to acid. 
• Use a VERY weak acid solution, these ratios can be found in a simple internet search. 
• The crystals can sit in the acid and water bath for up to a week if desired, keep the pot outside so any fumes will dissipate outdoors. 
• There is an option to do this more quickly by heating the acid and water solution, but not boiling. However, this must be done outside as you are heating and acid and it can give off mildly noxious fumes. The best and safest way to remove iron staining is a cold water and acid bath for a few days to a week. 
• Use gloves when working with the acid solution. 
• Remove the crystals after the week is up, using gloves, and rinse with water. 

Any work done with the acid and water solution should be done by adults, not children. In the photo below we are working on the first step, cleaning the crystals with water. Also, note the impeccable style my daughter has for crystal cleaning. 

The thrill of the hunt

Half of the fun of hunting for crystals is when you are cleaning your treasures at home. Sometimes, your finds will surprise you with more points or more clarity than you had expected. Or sometimes you’ll be let down with what you thought was an epic cluster, only to find it’s milky white quartz with no points at all. But, that’s all part of the process and it’s a great lesson in patience, persistence and hard work.

From start to finish, it usually takes us about a week to sort through all of our finds. It’s a process that has taught us many things, but has also pulled us in and made us rock hounds. I am so grateful for this newfound hobby of ours and we are so excited that it is finally cool enough to return to our favorite weekend adventure!

More Arkansas outdoor adventures

It has been so much fun to discover all of the incredible outdoor adventures within our new home state. If you’re looking for resources for crystal digging, you can find almost all of what I had mentioned here, along with books to pair with your crystal hunting adventure.

If you’d like to read about one of our other favorite Arkansas adventures, you can read about them here. Our family has so enjoyed learning to love where we live and Arkansas has so much to offer for outdoor adventure.

If you’re in or around the Bentonville, Arkansas area, check out our Bentonville Get Out Guide! This huge ebook is curated by yours truly and contains all our favorite things to do, places to eat, and more in Bentonville. It’s filled with water adventures, hiking trails, biking excursions, outdoor dining, kid-friendly camping and lodgings, parks and playgrounds and other fun and unique outdoor adventures. 

If you’re ever passing through, I’d love to share some of my favorites with you! Follow me on Instagram and let me know if you’re headed this way, maybe we could even go digging for crystals together! 

Have you ever been digging for crystals?

About the author

Nichole is mama to two incredible adventurers, an older boy and a younger girl. Together, they are on their third year of homeschooling. She has been married to her best friend for nearly twelve years and they share a mutual love for the outdoors. An Iowan native now living in the south, she is happy to claim Arkansas as home. She is a wanderlust (and coffee) fueled, fearless, road-tripper who has been known to take off for epic adventures at a moment’s notice. Hiking and camping (of the backpacking variety) and crystal digging are a few of their favorite family activities. You can find her in the woods somewhere, (probably up a creek and jumping off waterfalls) or online in the following locations:

Website: www.luckeywanderers.com
Instagram: @coleyraeh
Other RWMC posts: Nichole

The post Digging for Crystals with Kids appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

Creek stomping

I have nothing but fond memories of my sister and our stomping our way up a creek in a nearby county park. My mom took us there many times to play, climb, explore, and adventure. Then as I became a nanny for the summer I took the kids to that park nearly every week. And every week we returned home with sand in our shorts, mud between our toes, smiles on our faces and epic stories in our memory bank.

As a parent now with my own two adventurers, I have made it a point to continue with the creek stomp tradition. From a very early age, my husband and I exposed our children to the natural world and gave them the freedom to fully experience it with all of their senses. Dirt in the mouth was a common occurrence. That early exposure to the natural world allowed them to grow in their confidence and ability to navigate nature now as children. In addition, they are strong, bold, curious, but also with a healthy respect for the dangers that do exist in nature.

Little Missouri Falls, Ouachita National Forest

It is not uncommon for my kids and me to load up our car and head out to explore for the day. We are very fortunate to live within a few hours drive of some of the most beautiful places to be found in Arkansas, a state which is far underrated for outdoor pursuits. So a three-hour drive hardly makes us flinch for a day trip.

On one particular day a few weeks ago, we decided to chase down some waterfalls. It had just rained (heavily) the day before, which in Arkansas, means that the falls would actually be flowing. We quickly packed up some snacks, lunch, towels, goggles, life jackets and a camera. A short two hours later through windy mountain roads, which gave way to bumpy and dusty forest roads, and we arrived at our destination: Little Missouri Falls in the Ouachita National Forest.

For those of you who may not be familiar with the area, the Ouachita National Forest is located in Southwest Arkansas, about half-way in between Dallas, Texas and Memphis, Tennessee. This national forest has over 1.8 million acres of wilderness and spans from Central Arkansas through Eastern Oklahoma. So it’s not only wilderness but mountains, bluffs, rivers, fields and streams for hunting, camping, hiking, biking, fishing and camping. If you’re in the area, this is definitely a place worth checking out.

Hiking into the falls

Strapping on my backpack filled with towels, my camera, lunch and loads of fresh water, we raced off for the trail. The kids were dressed in their swimsuits, sun shirts, life jackets and water shoes. They are both fantastic swimmers, but I always take life jackets when rivers or lakes are involved, until I know the water situation and depth.

A short hike gave way to steep stairs to head down to the river. At the sight of water, the screams and shouts of my excited kids filled the valley. Within moments we were scrambling over rocky riverbed to the falls. The water, which was actually cold (an impressive feat for hot Arkansas summers) cascaded from an upper pool into lower pools and quite literally took our breath away. My son quickly scampered over to the edge of the larger waterfall and begged to go down. I love that he shares my same thirst for adventure.

Navigating the terrain

I decided it would be best to work our way down to the lower falls first instead of going over. A quick scuttle through the woods and over large boulders brought us down to a pleasant rocky beach area where laid out our blanket then made for the water. The blue-green water, typical of this area of Arkansas, flowed into a deep pool with large boulders. A massive fallen tree laid in the perfect spot to climb back up to the top of the falls. We discovered a wolf spider hiding on the underside, but we let it be as it seemed to content to hide out under the log.

My daughter splashed and played, then grew bold and swam out to a rock island to perch. My son scurried up the log and was ready to slide down the waterfall. I stood at the base to catch him due to the large boulders just under the water in the deep pool below. He most likely would not have been injured, but when it comes to large rocks underwater, I prefer to not take chances. Over and over again my son giggled his way down the waterfall. And over and over again I dunked my head under the rushing falls; delighted to have found such a wonderful nook.

Break for lunch

A little later and ready for a little calmer pace, we hiked downstream to where the river opened up to a large shallow pool. I laid out our picnic blanket and we were all soon munching away on our still cold lunch. It was so relaxing listening to the sound of the waterfall intermingled with bird calls and the buzzing of insects. We all sat in contented silence, gazing around at the huge boulders against the blue-green water and the green trees against the azure sky.

Catch something!

After lunch, my kiddos took off their life jackets and headed into the water to explore. Within moments my son exclaimed that he had found a big fish. I splashed over and shared in his excitement, but it was not a fish — it was a tadpole! And probably one of the biggest tadpoles I had ever seen. A quick group effort ensued, my kids standing next to me to watch it move, and I caught it!

One thing I forgot to bring was a net. So we used a baseball cap as a temporary home for the tadpole as we examined it. My son was nervous at first, but his curiosity overtook him and he was soon gently handling the incredible creature in his own hands. The bullfrog tadpole had it’s back legs but had yet to grow it’s front. It filled up my son’s hands with its massive size. The magic of that moment will forever be etched in my memory.

Appreciate your surroundings

Hiking up a creek. A seemingly simply endeavor. But an adventure, for certain.  As always, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings, especially in southern Arkansas during the summer. We were fortunate to not have any snake encounters on this outing. However, I have taught my children to always be aware of where they are moving and what is moving around them.

The natural world is a wonder to behold, especially when experienced alongside our children.  Educator Charlotte Mason said it most wonderfully “We are all meant to be naturalists, each in his own degree, and it is inexcusable to live in a world so full of the marvels of plant and animal life and to care for none of these things.”

What to pack

Here are a few things to pack for a successful creek outing:

• Water shoes – (I have a pair of Teva sandals that I’ve worn each summer for 7 years and they still work great). Any waterproof shoe with a gripping sole will be great.
• Life jackets for children, especially if they cannot swim
• Goggles – for underwater exploration! Take your exploring to the next level by having a look underwater. We always have our goggles if there is any water involved.
• Swimsuits – rash guards and waterproof shorts work great for all day exploring and protection from the sun.
• Snacks and picnic lunch
• Sturdy lunch boxes – For day trips, packing lunches in reusable containers is important to me and highly recommend PlanetBox lunch boxes. They are made of highly durable stainless steel. They are a bit heavy but hold up well to all of our adventures.  I have loved using Planetbox lunch boxes for the past few years. We have one in each size and they work great for us, including the “no food can touch” preferences of my daughter.

• A sturdy backpack
• Towels
• A net and maybe magnifying glasses
• Field guides to creeks in your area
• Plenty of fresh water to drink – perhaps take along a water purifier if you have one
• Sunscreen
• Sunhats – I really love the kids’ hats from Sunday Afternoon Hats
• A small first aid kit – I recommend Adventure Medical Kits
• Your sense of adventure and a childlike wonder!

Are you a fan of creek stomping with your kids?

Nichole is a homeschooling mama to two incredible adventurers, an older boy and a younger girl. She has been married to her best friend for nearly eleven years. An Iowan native now living in the south, she is happy to claim Arkansas as home. This is their 3rd year homeschooling, and after a rough first year, Nichole discovered the mash-up of styles that suited her, and the rest is history. She is a gypsy-hearted, fearless, road tripper who has been known to take off for epic adventures at a moments notice. Hiking and camping (of the backpacking variety) are their favorite family activities. She still swims competitively and enjoys showing her children what it means to live a healthy life. Coffee is her drink of choice (all day long, and black, please). You can usually find her in the woods somewhere, probably up a creek, jumping off waterfalls.

Follow her adventures here:
Instagram: @coleyraeh
Website: www.luckeywanderers.comSaveSave

SaveSave

SaveSave

SaveSave

The post Hiking & Creeking Little Missouri Falls with Kids appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

Fly fishing with kids at Dry Run Creek, Arkansas

We recently spent three action-packed days fishing with the kids on Dry Run Creek and now consider ourselves totally spoiled. Not only is it an absolutely gorgeous area with lush canopies and easy access to the water, but the fish were giant! My fly fishing obsessed five year-old caught his fill every day, each bigger than the last. Dare I say, he may have even got bored after a while from catching so many fish! Even the three year-old got in on the action and netted a few, although it was hard to pull her away from feeding the fish in the hatchery and chasing butterflies.

About Dry Run Creek

Flowing from Norfork National Fish Hatchery, Dry Run Creek is .75 miles of spring and hatchery effluent fed, ice-cold, highly-oxygenated water (32 million gallons/day) coming up from below the surface of Lake Norfork. Located alongside the hatchery (home to 2.5 million brown, rainbow and cutthroat trout), Dry Run Creek contains significant numbers of large trout trying to migrate from whence they came.  Amazingly, despite its proximity to the hatchery, Dry Run Creek is not stocked by Arkansas Game & Fish.  Instead, all the fish living in the creek have found their way out of the Norfork River and jumped “the waterfall” to access this trout-nirvana.

Until 1988, Dry Run Creek had been closed for 30 years to all fishing. The Arkansas Game & Fish Commission decided closure of the stream was unnecessary and re-opened it as a catch-and-release, single-hook, artificial-lure fishery for kids under 16 and the handicapped (an Arkansas handicap fishing license is required). Handicap wheelchair-bound individuals may fish from the newly built decks and ramps.

Designed for ultimate fish habitat and growth, Dry Run Creek is open year round to anglers and host to many fishing events and school field trips each year. Children not only have the chance to learn more about trout, but also have a great opportunity to fish for the monsters that lurk in the depths.

Best kids’ fly fishing location

As you can imagine, Dry Run Creek is hog heaven for the fishing-obsessed kid and a great place to get them hooked on fly fishing. The number of trout in the creek is astounding and it’s common to see fish lined up so thick it looks like you could walk across the water using them as stepping stones.

The cold, clear, shallow water allows amazing sight-fishing opportunities, but there are still nooks and crannies to allow the bigger fish to hide. Just because there’s an abundance of fish, doesn’t mean they’re all easy to catch! These fish don’t get this big being careless and fishing here still takes patience and skill.

Trout food sources

The fish in Dry Run Creek thrive on all-natural food sources – sow bugs, scuds, midges, aquatic worms, leaches and an abundance of terrestrial insects.  No protein pellets here! Essentially, Dry Run Creek contains everything that you would find in the Norfork River, but more concentrated. Therefore, the fish are well-fed and have very little reason to ever leave! The creek also contains populations of beaver, mink, muskrat, and other animals that use or live in the stream and add to its biodiversity.

Fish for big trout at Dry Run Creek

Because the stream is well-fed and strictly catch and release, the fish have the chance to get massive. There are scores of rainbow and brown trout over five pounds and trophy trout are the norm here. In December 2005, this “little stream that could” gave up a rainbow trout that may have been bigger than the Arkansas state record (estimated somewhere near 25 pounds) to an 11-year-old angler from Kansas!

Kids can fish for the grand slam of trout

The creek has one of the thickest populations of trout in the world and is possibly the best fly fishing stream in the country for young ones learning how to fly fish. Dry Run Creek is absolutely teaming with rainbow and brown trout, but it also has some brook and cutthroat trout. This means your little one could catch a Grand Slam (four different types of trout), all in one location!

Kids only fishing location

Sorry mom and dad, but Dry Run Creek is strictly for kids. All kids must be with a licensed adult and do the fishing themselves. A certain level of parental teaching is permitted, but only in the direct presence of the child.

The kids fishing should be able to cast, hook up and fight the fish on their own, with limited parental guidance and interaction. Parents can rig the rods, coach the youngster and net the fish, but it is really important that the child actually catch the fish. Arkansas Game and Fish Commission officers frequent the creek and will issue tickets to adults fishing.

But don’t worry, parents – even though you can’t fish, you won’t get bored. There will be so much action with your kids catching fish that you won’t have time to think about all the fish you could be catching. Non-stop fish after fish (and tangle after tangle) will keep everyone in the family entertained, busy and excited for the next one.

Best fly fishing gear for kids

As for fly fishing equipment, a standard 9-foot, 5-weight rod is the ticket.  Light enough to enjoy the pull of the smaller fish and sturdy enough to help control the lunkers when they decide to go for a run.  You’ll want to be careful with your leader and tippet size though.  When the water is stained, you can get away with heavier leaders and tippet (3X and 4X); however, most days the water is crystal clear so consider using the smallest tippet you can get away with. 

(You can find all our favorite fly fishing gear recommendations for kids in this post.)

As for flies, use anything to mimic the trout’s natural diet. We had success with midges, San Juan worms, scuds, and terrestrials, as well as attractor patterns like eggs and stimulators. A strike indicator and split-shot will be necessary when nymphing, and it’s always important to have floatant for your dry flies after they get hammered several times. Make sure you also bring the biggest net you can find. We lost quite a few giant trout at the net because our biggest net wasn’t quite big enough!

What to pack when fly fishing with kids

If your child has waders, bring them. The water is cold and while there are plenty of spots to fish from the bank, with waders they can fish virtually the entire stream. Parents may also want to wear waders and boots in case you need to get in and release hung-up flies and more effectively net the big trout.

Feel free to bring snacks, lunch and a cooler. The stream is less than a mile long, so you’re never too far from your car in the parking lot. There are picnic tables and trash cans scattered along the paths and walkways, so you never have to get off the water.

Tips for photographing catch and release trout

Finally, bring a camera! Dry Run Creek definitely provides opportunities to catch a once-in-a-lifetime fish and you’ll want it documented. Just remember, when you’re taking a picture, handle the fish carefully. Dry Run Creek is a catch-and-release stream and trout must be released immediately after they are caught.  Leave the fish in the net, suspended in the water, until you have removed the hook and have the camera ready.

Handle the fish gently and as little as possible when photographing.  A quick lift out of the water with a firm (but gentle) grasp is all that’s required. Have your child hold the fish out in front of them so you capture that big giant smile on their face. If it’s super hot out, leave the fish in the water (keep them wet). Be sure to fully revive the fish before release.

When to go fly fishing in Dry Run Creek

Dry Run Creek is open year-round, from sunrise to sunset. There’s never a bad season for fishing and there’s lots to do and explore any time of year you visit. The paths and walkways along the creek were recently remodeled, are well-kept, shaded and a very beautiful in any season. The Mountain Home area is beautiful and filled with all kinds of amazing outdoor activities to partake in with kids: hiking, biking, swimming, boating, kayaking, etc. It’s conveniently located right between Norfork Lake and Bull Shoals, making the fishing and water activities prevalent. 

While you’re visiting Dry Run Creek, make sure to check out the Norfork National Fish Hatchery. Feed the trout and take a tour. It is truly a great experience and the kids will love the break in action.

For more information

If you’d like to find more information on Dry Run Creek and the surrounding area, check out the Friends of the Norfolk National Fish Hatchery’s website.

For more info on fly fishing with kids, check out our other posts:

• Teaching Kids to Fly Fish
• Fly Fishing Basics for Kids
• Tips for Raising Kids that Love to Fish

If you’re looking for an awesome place to go fishing with kids,
Dry Run Creek in Mountain Home, Arkansas is definitely worth the trip!

The post Fly Fishing with Kids at Dry Run Creek, Arkansas appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.