*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.

Adventure schooling

Adventure + homeschool = adventure schooling

Some moms might say homeschooling in and of itself is quite an adventure, but when you add a healthy dose of nature and exploration to the equation, you get something incredibly unique and special. 

In recent years, an increasing number of families have chosen to break away from the traditional education system, opting for a more personalized and adventurous approach to learning and homeschooling. Adventure schooling is an innovative educational model that goes beyond the confines of the traditional classroom and encourages families to get out there and explore the world around them and use the outdoors as their children’s classroom.

In this article, we will dive deep into the realm of adventure schooling and explore ways you can take your homeschool classroom outside. We’ll get perspectives from two moms about what adventure schooling means to them and the how and why behind their choice to “adventure school” their children. 

Photo Credit: Nichole Holze

Nichole’s adventure schooling story

Nichole – @coleyraeh

We decided to homeschool from the very beginning of our children’s education. While that’s the right thing for us, I will never claim that it is the best for everyone. Each family is wonderfully unique, and each child’s needs are equally unique. That said, our choice to homeschool was the catalyst for what I call adventure schooling.

From the time my youngest was only a few months old, I had a deep desire to get out of the house and disrupt the grip of postpartum depression that pulled at me. Our first adventures merely involved me successfully getting out of the house with both kids, snacks, water, and the diaper bag. We usually hit a nearly park or playground and may have only stayed at the park (which was five minutes away) for thirty minutes. But, with two small kids, this was a huge victory and as I kept going, with little adventures around town, I strengthened my adventure muscles so that we could do bigger and more adventurous outings. 

When we decided to homeschool, I already had plenty of experience taking my kiddos on adventures by myself. So, it was a natural progression for me to schedule adventure into our homeschool week. It’s all part of a process I call being responsibly brave. Now, years into our homeschooling experience, I still incorporate an “adventure day” into our schedule. 

In a nutshell, adventure day is one day per week that I set aside to chase shenanigans with my children. It’s not meant to be a field trip. It is not a day to play with friends (although friends are always welcome to come along). It doesn’t have to be an entire day. This can be in the morning, an afternoon, or even an intentional hour or two where our focus is on exploring or doing something together instead of schoolwork or other things on our to-do lists.  

These adventures can be anything from visiting a local park or trail, to a museum, a day trip, or even big day hikes or camping trips. It’s anything at all. Mostly, it’s an opportunity for us to connect through doing something together, and I am so grateful we started it. I have years’ worth of memories and photos of my kids with our various dogs under this one specific tree on a trail we hike almost weekly. It’s simple, but it’s beautiful.

Photo Credit: Lea Reynolds

Lea’s adventure schooling story

Lea – @wildstokefam

I had no plans to homeschool my children. I was a full-time working Registered Nurse in the busiest hospital in town. But when my 4-year-old son was due to enter pre-school, my husband and I were nervous about him leaving the comforts of our sides and attending school every day. I was full of fear, anxiety, and excitement at the same time. I was excited that he would make friends, learn, and be surrounded by the fun of school. As a child, I loved school, which was filled with learning, fun, and friends. However, I was also a nervous wreck. He’s my baby, and the thought of sending him off to school for 7 hours on his own was overwhelming. How on Earth was I supposed to let him go to school all day?

But we swallowed our fears and got ready to register him for preschool. Only to be told that there were 15 children on the waitlist for preschool ahead of us. 15! The odds of him getting into preschool were not in our favor.  The next closest school with availability was a 25+ minute drive from our home, each way. And while that was technically doable, the thought of spending almost two hours every day in the car (with our littlest in tow), was mind-boggling. And this is where the idea of homeschooling first came into mind.

At first, I was terrified of the idea of homeschooling. I am a nurse by trade, so my expertise is in everything medical and human anatomy. Regarding homeschooling, I was really worried about failing him and not teaching him enough of what he was “supposed” to learn. I spent many long nights researching, reading, and studying how to teach my child preschool material in a way that worked for both of us. 

Soon, I discovered there were quite a few wonderful homeschool groups in my area. I fell in love with countless homeschooling books. And I dove deep into the idea of incorporating nature into our studies.  As a Type-A person who loves outlines and schedules, I knew I needed a curriculum and a plan. However, I also learned very quickly that a strict schedule does not always work with kids. But my Army training kicked in, and I became resilient and figured out how to adapt. I had to learn how to tailor the days to both of my kids and their interests while incorporating the necessary alphabet, phonics, math, etc.

Long story short, we all learned very quickly what worked for us and what didn’t. A designated room in the house was not a good idea (we cannot be contained). I also felt very distracted and a bit claustrophobic, spending our day inside. My patience runs thin with the mountain of laundry, toys and dishes needing to be tackled. I am a better mom (and a better teacher), when I am outside in nature with my children. And I noticed quickly that my son and 2-year-old daughter were more receptive to whatever I was trying to teach them when they were moving their little bodies, playing, and, most importantly, outside!

We put our classroom in a backpack and headed outside to explore. When we are outside running on the beach, or hiking a trail, we are all happy, engaged, and eager to learn. Thus, our adventure schooling began.

Photo Credit: Jackleen Leed

What does adventure mean to you?  

Nichole – @coleyraeh

I would say that adventure is a mindset. It’s changing how you think when you approach an activity. Adventure can happen right in your backyard as you look for worms after a good rain. Maybe it can be in your neighborhood when you walk each week and watch how the plants change with the seasons. Adventure can be biking the same trail in your city, over and over again. Or maybe it’s going on a big hike to a waterfall, or going camping, or going to a climbing gym. It can be big, or small, near or far. It’s choosing to view the world through a lens of wonder, wherever you choose to wander.

Lea – @wildstokefam

Adventure is defined as an exciting experience and exploration that deviates from the ordinary. The essence of adventure lies in embracing the uncertainty and the thrill of the unknown, often leading to memorable and transformative experiences. Simply reading under a tree at the park can be an adventure. As a society, we have gravitated towards a sedentary lifestyle. Even in traditional schools, kids don’t get the chance to spend much time outside or being active. The days of kids running wild and free and learning through play are limited. I saw this firsthand for myself when I was an elementary school nurse. The 4-year-olds seemed to spend more time waiting in lines and being contained in a group than actually playing outside or doing typical 4-year-old tasks. Nature is vital for kids and adults alike, as is adventure! 

Photo Credit: Lea Reynolds

Incorporating nature into your schooling

Incorporating nature into schooling (whether homeschooling or traditional schooling), can be a transformative and enriching experience for both parents and children. By getting outside into nature and embracing the great outdoors, you not only provide a dynamic and engaging learning environment but also foster a deep connection with the natural world around you. 

Here are some creative ways to integrate nature into your homeschool curriculum, no matter the age of the child or grade level, put together by Lea (@wildstokefamily).

Math

• Measure items in nature
• Create a sundial outside
• Search for shapes in nature
• Complete arithmetic outside using rocks, twigs, leaves
• Build a fort and talk about angles, shapes, steps, etc.
• Visiting a farmer’s market and having a child weigh produce, count money, and learn values

Science

• Learn about the life cycles of animals. Observe the ones that can be found in your area in the wild or at a local nature center. Visit those that are a bit more exotic at a zoo, aquarium, or while traveling. 
• Creating a nature box with interesting items found outside and keep them in a keepsake box (e.g. feathers, seashells, sea glass, and dried insects like dragonflies and beetles)
• Nature journal: older kids can focus on more in-depth science investigation and learn scientific names, habitats, etc. 
• Forage in the woods, the beach, the city
• Do some nature-based outdoor STEAM activities and science projects
• Visit a local education center or outdoor children’s museum for hands-on science
• Start a garden (or visit a botanical garden) in order to learn about plants and the growing cycle
• Set up a weather station in your backyard with simple instruments like a thermometer, rain gauge, and wind vane. Keep a journal to record daily observations and weather patterns.
• Turn your backyard into a birdwatching haven. Provide binoculars and bird identification guides, and challenge your kids to identify different bird species. 

Art

• Painting outside (plein air painting)
• Creating art with leaves, twigs, and items found outside
• Nature journaling
• Making nature paintbrushes 
• Creating seashell crafts, such as necklaces
• Making mandalas using nature items, crafts, etc. 
• Paint kindness rocks
• Creating art structures out of recycled materials
• Making leaf and/or flower crowns

Language arts

• Nature journal, nature poetry
• Creating your own park review guides
• Writing a short story about an adventure
• Reading outside in your yard or at a park
• Visiting your local library
• Learning to spell with wooden or magnetic letters
• Spell outside with sticks, leaves, rocks

Photo Credit: Nichole Holze

Incorporating adventure into schooling

If you’re looking for ways to incorporate more adventures into your homeschooling (or simply add more adventure to your daily life), here’s a great starter list from Nichole (@coleyraeh) to help spark some ideas for ways to get out the door and learn in a whole new way!

Outdoor adventure – close to home

• Explore nature in your own backyard
• Plant a garden
• Go for nature walks in your neighborhood
• Visit a local nature trail or park
• Visit a garden center at different times of the year
• Visit a local farm or farmer
• Volunteer at a community garden
• Play at a skatepark
• Drive RC cars outside somewhere
• Go for a bike ride on a trail or around your neighborhood
• Rent a kayak, canoe, or paddle board if that’s available
• Go on a mural scavenger hunt around your town or city
• Try geocaching
• Play in a creek. Like this.

Indoor adventure – close to home

• Go to a movie
• Visit a local museum
• Take a tour of any local historic sites or homes
• Visit the library
• Try a new restaurant, especially if it’s a type of food that correlates to something you’re studying!
• Take “school” to a coffee shop
• Go to a play or musical
• Go see the symphony (many cities will have children’s theater days for shows and for the symphony)
• Check out trampoline park
• Go go an indoor climbing gym
• Visit a bowling center and/or arcade (pro tip – let them use their own money at the arcade, and don’t forget about Kids Bowl Free programs in the summer)

Outdoor adventure – bigger and farther

• Go camping at a campground or state park cabin or yurt
• Go on a bigger day hike to something neat like a waterfall
• Canoeing, kayaking, stand up paddleboarding
• Mountain biking on bigger trails or at a pump track
• Find a climbing club or group to go climbing outdoors with
• Try a via ferrata if there’s one nearby, if not, try an adventure obstacle course or zipline
• Visit a new to you state or national park
• Snorkeling – in a creek, a lake, or even the ocean
• Paddle camping – hauling everyhing you need to camp in your canoe or stand up paddle board. 
• Explore something unique to your state: like crystal digging in Arkansas.
• Visit a zoo or wildlife sanctuary
• Visit gardens and botanical centers
• Check the calendars for nearby state parks, national parks, historic sites, and cultural sites

Photo Credit: Sara Webb Lesire 

What does adventure schooling look like for you?

Nichole – @coleyraeh

My kids are now 12 and 9, so while we’ve been doing this a while, it doesn’t look that much different as we enter the teen and tween years, but our adventures are bigger. I think that it’s often easy to feel pressure to let go of the hands-on and experience-based learning as the kids get older and move closer to middle school and high school. However, in my experience, those are the opportunities for the adventures to get even bigger. It’s also when you begin to see some fruits of your labor from the years you put in when they were little, when they begin to make observations or recall things they’ve learned while out in the world.

As we’ve always done, we incorporate adventure schooling into our homeschooling schedule through our weekly adventure day, which is sometimes a canoe trip, a SUP trip, hiking, mountain biking, or perhaps even a trip to a museum or art gallery. These are bigger adventures than we did when they were younger. It’s taken us a while to get here and I’m so proud of the adventures that we’re now able to do. I intentionally set aside time for real world adventures and experiences, whether or not they’ll have any measurable academic value. Not all adventures need to be educational. Sometimes, they’re just for fun! Those experiences are what etch into our memories and keep the spark of curiosity burning.

Lea – @wildstokefam

Each week, we learn a new letter (my son is only at a Pre-K/Kindergarten level, so I tailor our work towards him and my 2-year-old). We go over the sounds and tie in a book and an animal or nature theme to that letter. I try to choose things that he is interested in because, at the end of the day, that’s how he will retain what I am teaching. Right now, my son loves fishing and wants to be a fisherman when he grows up, so we spend a lot of time on/near the water.

Not all of our time is spent outside. I do teach him in the house at the start of the week. We read our book, practice writing letters, do arts and crafts. Every Friday is our adventure day. We go on a field trip to either a learning center or simply outside. I create things to do in nature that still tie in with what we are learning during the week. He never complains and never thinks of it as “school.” He is simply out in nature, playing and learning at the same time. We fish almost every weekend already, so my next plan is to catch a fish large enough to keep, learn how to clean it, and make it for dinner. 

Every week is different, some harder than others, but I try my best to let my creativity spark fun ideas to incorporate school, outside. 

Photo Credit: Lea Reynolds

Favorite adventure schooling gear and gadgets

Lea – @wildstokefam

I am a sucker for all the coolest homeschool gadgets and outdoor gear. I can write an entire article on my favorite gear but here are my top favorites. Don’t forget to shop second-hand. You’d be surprised what you can find at children’s consignment stores, Facebook Marketplace, and yard sales. 

1. Magnetic letters – we use these to help with phonics, learning new words, and spelling.
2. Julia Rothman collection – since we don’t have one set curriculum we follow, we plan my unit studies a week at time and incorporate nature studies from her books. The artwork is lovely, and the information is perfect for my son. 
3. Life Cycles Kit – we use them every week, and even my 2-year-old loves them. She focuses on matching them to their selective card while my son practices the actual life cycles.
4. Adventure kits – binoculars, nets, whistle, compass, flashlight, net 
5. Pocket microscope for kids – perfect to take with us on the go to get an up-close look at everything around us

Photo Credit: Lea Reynolds

Adventure schooling for all

Adventure schooling, while usually referred to when talking about homeschooling, is not exclusive to homeschooling families. Learning through adventures is a versatile approach that can be seamlessly integrated into the lives of all families, regardless of whether children attend traditional schools or are schooled at home.

Embracing the spirit of adventure learning involves recognizing the educational potential in activities and outdoor exploration. Even for families with packed schedules, simple changes like turning weekend hikes into interactive biology lessons or transforming a camping trip into a history exploration can make a significant impact. The key is to view the world as a vast classroom where learning is not confined to textbooks but unfolds organically in the midst of nature’s wonders.

For families with children in traditional schools, you may need to reach out to your child’s teacher to plan adventures based on what they’re learning. As a parent, you can supplement their education by dedicating weekends or holidays to family adventures that blend recreational activities with educational components. Whether it’s a visit to a historical site, a day at the beach exploring marine life, or a camping trip under the stars, each adventure becomes an opportunity for hands-on learning. By weaving adventure into the fabric of family life, all children can benefit from a holistic education that transcends the boundaries of traditional schooling.

Photo Credit: Lea Reynolds

Have you ever considered adventure schooling?

Nichole

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.

Lea 

The post Navigating the World of Adventure Schooling 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.

This post is sponsored by Chickasaw Country. Activities and accommodations were exchanged for review purposes. All opinions expressed herein belong to the author.

Chickasaw Country, Oklahoma. 

Chickasaw Country is located in south-central Oklahoma, about an hour south of Oklahoma City and includes many wonderful cities and towns. Sulphur, Oklahoma is where you’ll find a beautiful recreation area with natural cold springs, lakes, and plenty of hiking. Chickasaw Country is a wonderful place for families with children of all ages. There are wonderful farms, natural areas, delightful restaurants, coffee shops and plenty of local shops and businesses.  Learn, discover, and grow with the immersive learning experiences at local museums and explore the home of Chickasaw Nation.

Where to stay in Chickasaw Country

There are plenty of hotels, rental homes, and unique places to stay in Chickasaw Country with kids. But, the best place to stay is the Chickasaw Retreat and Conference Center, in Sulphur, Oklahoma. The resort sits on top of a mountain, with panoramic views of the surrounding hillsides. There are walking trails around the property that also offer incredible views of nature around the resort. For dining, there is an onsite pizza restaurant open Thursday through Saturday nights. 

Chickasaw Retreat and Conference Center

The Chickasaw Retreat and Conference Center also has a full fitness center, including a spa, indoor walking track, indoor pool and hot tub, steam room, and sauna! It was such a treat to be able to work out in a fully equipped gym before we took off for our daily adventures. The pool has a wall of windows facing west, and it is the perfect place to watch the sunset! The pool is open until 8 pm, and it’s a great way to let the kids burn off any excess energy while you enjoy the sunset views on the mountaintop.

CRCC also has spacious and comfortable rooms, including some with a kitchenette and balcony. The balcony is a peaceful place to enjoy some coffee from the in-room Keurig coffee maker.

This is the best place to stay for a centrally located base while you explore all that Chickasaw Country has to enjoy. It’s a short drive into the town of Sulphur, OK, and a great launch point to explore all of the area. 

Outdoor adventures for kids in Chickasaw Country

With its rich history, diverse landscapes, and a wealth of cultural attractions, Chickasaw Country provides a unique blend of outdoor adventure and education that will captivate kids of all ages. Whether you’re interested in immersing yourselves in Native American heritage, embarking on thrilling outdoor escapades, or simply enjoying the tranquil serenity of nature, this remarkable region has it all.

Explore the pristine hiking trails of the Chickasaw National Recreation Area, where hidden waterfalls and crystal-clear springs await discovery. Whether you’re splashing in the natural swimming areas, viewing live animals and a herd of bison (from a safe distance, of course), hiking the numerous trails, or immersing yourselves in Native American culture, Chickasaw Country is a playground for families seeking outdoor thrills and educational enlightenment.

Chickasaw National Recreation Area

The city of Sulphur, Oklahoma, sits right next to Chickasaw National Recreation Area, and should be your first stop. This park is the oldest national park in Oklahoma, and one of the few national parks in the Midwest. At the time of its founding, the reservation, later national park, was located in Pickens County, Chickasaw Nation. On March 17, 1976, Platt National Park was combined with the Arbuckle Recreation Area and additional lands and renamed. 

It’s located within the Arbuckle mountain range. The Chickasaw National Recreation Area features a wide range of outdoor activities and experiences, such as swimming, boating, fishing, hiking, observing nature and scenery, hunting, camping, and picnicking. The park is filled with mineral springs, natural pools, and hiking trails. It’s located within Chickasaw Nation.

This is a great place to visit in Chickasaw Country with kids!

Travertine Nature Center

Hiking at Chickasaw National Recreation Area

There are over twenty miles of hiking trails in and around the national park. Some of the trails are wide and smooth, and some are even paved and great for strollers. Nearly all of the trails at Chickasaw National Recreation Area are pet friendly, except the Springs Trails leading to Antelope and Buffalo Springs. The Rock Creek Multi-Use trails are more challenging and offer longer hiking options, ranging from 2 to 5 miles.

TIP: head to Bromide Hill early in the morning to take in a gorgeous sunrise view, or for sunset to watch the sky change colors. For a full list of important things to take hiking, check out this post! Note: the Bromide Hill overlook is a steep cliff with no barricades, and I wouldn’t recommend this overlook with small children. It’s an easy hike, but a very steep cliff. 

Springs and creeks at Chickasaw National Recreation Area

One thing that is unique about the Chickasaw National Recreation area is all of the water! You may not expect it, but the land is full of fresh, cold water springs. And I do mean COLD! Of the park’s 9,888 square acres, water covers 2,409 acres! 

Travertine Creek, the most popular place to play, is a freezing 65 degrees year-round. But, when it’s 100 degrees outside, that water feels amazing! If you’re visiting this National Park on a hot day, definitely plan to spend some time in the cold water (and bring everyone a change of clothes!). 

Little Niagra Falls

Little Niagara Falls is a very popular and picturesque swimming hole on Travertine Creek. It’s a natural swimming area deep enough to jump in from the surrounding rocks and is full of minnows! We even spotted a turtle and a larger bluegill. Travertine Creek is open for swimming and wading everywhere downstream of Little Niagara Falls.

Other places to swim and play include Rock Lake, Veterans Lake, and Lake of the Arbuckles. 

Unique wildlife

Chickasaw National Recreation Area is home to a wide variety of unique wildlife, including a small bison herd. The natural springs in the park were at one time a popular spot for large herds to cool off and get a drink. But, the increase of settlements in the 1800s led to the destruction of habitat.

Bison made a return to a protected area in the park in the 1920s, thanks to a small herd brought over from the Wichita Mountain Wildlife Refuge. The Veterans Trail is the best place to view the bison when they’re housed in the east pasture. When they are in the Western pasture, they can be seen from the designated bison viewing area (the Bison Viewpoint turnoff on Highway 177). 

Alpaca farm and fiber mill

Another opportunity to see some unique wildlife in Chickasaw Country with kids is at Crossed Arrows Alpaca Farm and Fiber Mill. This charming farm is located in Duncan, Oklahoma.

They raise alpacas and sheep for their wool and have an on-site fiber mill! You can call ahead to schedule a tour of the farm for a great learning opportunity! They have a store onsite where you can buy products made with wool from their animals. They also have a unique boutique downtown at the Duncan Tower Shoppes. The shop also carries their own grassfed beef! Or, you can shop online for wool items. 

Indoor adventures, museums, and learning experience in Chickasaw Country

There are also plenty of indoor adventures to enjoy in Chickasaw Country with kids. The area hosts several museums, including the incredible 184-acre Chickasaw Cultural Center. You can easily spend several days exploring all of the museums in the area, from First American culture to Western history museums; it’s a complete learning experience. 

Chickasaw National Capital in Tishomingo

The city of Tishomingo is also where you’ll find the historic capitol of the Chickasaw Nation. The building served as the central government for the Chickasaw Nation until 1906, when Oklahoma received statehood. It’s now preserved as a museum that’s open to the public. The building itself is beautiful and made from amber rose granite, harvested from a local quarry. Take your time to walk around the building and observe the grounds. There are some statues worth seeing!

Inside, you can go on a tour and learn about how the Chickasaw Nation fought to preserve their culture and their independence. Be sure to read the signage and exhibit displays. There are many events throughout the year at the capitol building, the largest being the Chickasaw Annual Festival which takes place yearly at the end of September. There are exhibits and demonstrations, and it culminates with the State of the Union address by the Chickasaw governor. 

Chickasaw Council House Museum

Just next door to the capitol building is another important historic site. The original Chickasaw Nation meeting house is preserved inside this building. You walk around the log structure as well as observe inside. There are displays with important heritage and history throughout the museum, and it’s well worth a guided tour.

Another room displays honors and contributions by notable Chickasaw Nation members, including TeAta and Pearl, both of whom have movies about their stories. The Council House Museum is a wonderful place to visit in Chickasaw Country with kids because it also houses one of the largest collections of Chickasaw artifacts and has a wonderful art gallery and gift shop. 

Chickasaw Bank Museum

This historic bank in Johnston County, Oklahoma, was the original bank used by the Chickasaw Nation. Governor Robert Harris signed a bill in 1897 for the new bank building, to be constructed using the same stone as the capitol. The stone actually came from a nearby quarry also owned by Harris.

The bank was ruined in 1909 when an employee embezzled $40,000! It has since been restored and is now a museum. Inside, the space is set up how it would have been when serving as a bank in the early 1900s. It’s a beautiful building and has exhibits throughout the interior. The bank is a short walk from the capitol building. 

Chickasaw Cultural Center

The Chickasaw Cultural Center is an incredible museum. It is housed on 184 acres in Sulphur, Oklahoma. The grounds are spectacular, with beautiful gardens and sculptures throughout. Start your day at the Chickasha Poya Exhibit Center, where you’ll learn about the history of the Chickasaw Nation.

The Chickasaw Cultural Center experience begins at the welcome center. Here you can find helpful directions, schedules, brochures and maps. Also located inside the welcome center is a selection of Chickasaw-produced books and reference materials available for purchase.

Be sure to watch the film and enter through the Spirit Forest. After the forest, you walk through a timeline of history, including the origin story of the Chickasaw Nation, to what happened with European contact, and then removal and the re-establishment of their sovereignty. This includes the story of the defeat and attack of Spanish explorer Hernando De Soto.

After the indoor exhibits, head outside to the Chikasha Inchokka’ Traditional Village. There you get to see a meeting house, summer home, winter home, and many other features of 1700’s era Chickasaw life. You can also learn about the corn crib and how food was stored. The gardens are beautiful, and you can see examples of three sister’s plantings. The garden outside of the village fence is even larger and features a sensory garden. 

A unique experience at the Chickasaw Cultural Center

Something that makes a visit to the Chickasaw Cultural Center extra special is watching the daily stomp dance demonstrations. You will get to enjoy the traditional song and dance of the Chickasaw tribe, and learn a little about the Chickasaw language. But, you will also be invited to dance along with them! This is an incredibly unique experience that you will not experience anywhere else. We recommend embracing this because the Snake Dance isn’t something you’ll soon forget. 

Traditional Chickasaw foods

You will need to plan a full day to experience all that the cultural center has to offer. There is a cafe on site called Aaimpa Cafe and they serve traditional Chickasaw foods like pashofa as well as classics like burgers. The salmon and wild rice is gluten free and delicious! Be sure to follow their social media pages (Facebook and Instagram) for updates about special events and festivals. Huge thank you to our tour guide, Krystal, for giving us such an incredible day. 

Chisholm Trail Heritage Center in Chickasaw Country

This museum is another must-see in Chickasaw Country with kids. The Chisholm Trail Heritage Center in Duncan, Oklahoma, celebrates the history, art, and heritage of the cattle trail, the American cowboy, and the American West. It is a phenomenal immersive learning experience. Plan to spend a few hours at this museum. There are two shows, one in a 4D theater and one featuring animatronic cowboys. 

The Chisholm Trail museum is great for younger children and has lots of hands-on learning experiences, including a recreated early 1800s general store to play in. Kids can also try their hand at cattle roping from a real saddle. The museum also has an extraordinary art gallery featuring many artists, with multiple art forms, including sculpture, multimedia, and paintings. 

Educational opportunities at the Chisholm Trail Heritage Center

Chisholm Trail Heritage Center specializes in education. They have a wide range of programming available throughout the year, for multiple ages groups. They can do field trips for schools as well as homeschools, with different topics. Educational trips can range from two to four hours and can focus on things like writing or art. If you’re not able to make it there in person, you can watch their Facebook Live videos, where they share a different topic each week! 

Toy and Action Figure Museum

Would you believe that there’s a museum in Chickasaw Country that’s guaranteed to make kids and adults happy? The Toy and Action Figure Museum in Pauls Valley, Oklahoma, is a must-see.

The museum began in 2000, thanks to toy designer, artist, and collector Kevin Stark. If you get a chance to tour the museum with Kevin, do it! The stories about the toys, some of the creative process, and the collection are incredible.

The “collector’s bedroom” is set up with floor-to-ceiling action figures, which is sure to induce some nostalgia. The Star Wars room was, without a doubt, our favorite exhibit. Don’t miss this unique and quirky museum in Oklahoma. 

Best places to eat in Chickasaw Country with kids

There are plenty of chain restaurants that you would expect in small-town USA in Chickasaw Country. But, there are also lots of great small businesses and independent restaurants to try. From cute “Main Street cafes,” to off-the-beaten-path biker bars, there is a wide range of restaurants to choose from. Each city in Chickasaw Country has great places to eat, and even some hidden gems. Here are just a few of them…

Ole Red

There are several restaurants along the main downtown in Tishomingo. One that’s not to be missed: Ole Red. Blake Shelton’s famous first big hit is the inspiration for this fun restaurant. They have a great menu of home-cooked favorites, including a gluten-free honey butter grilled chicken that’s delicious. Drinks (for both kids and adults) can come in keepsake mason jar glasses. Enjoy some live music, and don’t miss the gift shop and photo op on your way out. 

A campground and BBQ

Smokin Joe’s Rib Ranch in Davis, Oklahoma is a great place for dinner. There is a large campground onsite, and it’s close to Turner Falls. This BBQ restaurant has delicious pulled chicken, pulled pork, brisket, or sausage. Classic sides include coleslaw, beans, or okra. The meat dinners can be gluten-free if you order them without toast.

TIP: be sure to look up while you walk in the line to order. There’s a fun piece of decor on the ceiling that will definitely make your kids smile. 

Fine dining in Chickasaw Country with kids

The Artesian Hotel, Casino and Spa in Sulphur, Oklahoma, is a hotel that features a casino, small shops, a coffee shop, and a fine dining restaurant. The Springs at the Artesian is on the main level of the hotel, with a beautiful balcony. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Enjoy a fine dining experience when you visit for dinner. It’s especially beautiful during sunset. An unending supply of rolls is part of the menu; just make sure your kids don’t fill up on them before you eat dinner! They have a kid’s menu. The salmon with wild rice and asparagus is a delicious gluten-free option. 

A gift shop and restaurant with a purpose

The Market by Thinkability in Duncan, Oklahoma, is a gift shop and cafe that supports adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities. The gift shop has a huge range of home goods and gifts, a healthy grocery market, gourmet foods, and an old-fashioned candy area. Upstairs, the cafe has plenty of seating and features garden fresh menu items like the salad bar, sandwiches, and more. The loaded baked sweet potatoes are a great gluten-free option. 

A biker bar by the lake

Fat Bully’s by the Lake is a really fun and casual restaurant in Sulphur, Oklahoma. It’s a beloved biker bar close to Lake of the Arbuckles. The restaurant has a great patio for outdoor dining in nice weather. They also have live music. The menu features favorites like fried cheese curds and all types of burgers. Be sure to check their Facebook page for event updates. 

But, what about the coffee?

I’m so glad you asked! I would never forget the coffee! Luckily, the Chickasaw Retreat and Conference Center has stocked Keurig coffee makers in the room. But, there are plenty of other cute coffee shops to visit in Chickasaw Country with kids. Here are a few of our favorites that we visited:

• Bedre Cafe – Sulphur, OK
• Iron Wolf Coffee Shop – Davis, OK
• Viridian Coffee Shop – Duncan, OK

The ideal adventure schooling and family vacation location. 

Chickasaw Country, Oklahoma, is the perfect location for homeschool families looking for an educational adventure school excursion, or for any non-homeschooling family looking for a unique vacation filled with history and outdoor adventure.

There are a huge variety of things to do in Chickasaw Country with kids. The area has a rich history with incredible learning opportunities, a wide variety of outdoor adventures, charming towns with unique things to do, shopping, delicious food, and so much more.

Note: be sure to check out the town of Chickasha, OK. They have a 50-foot-tall “leg lamp.” that’s on view all year round. Yes, the lamp made famous by A Christmas Story! 

Are you ready to plan your trip to Chickasaw Country?

About the author

Nichole is a writer, content creator, and family travel and adventure influencer residing in southwest Arkansas. Nichole and her husband have homeschooled their children from the beginning of their educational journey. They now have a 12-year-old son, a 9-year-old daughter, and a 10-month-old, 100-pound 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. You can read her personal blog at Luckey Wanderers. She is on the Executive Team for Run Wild My Child. Be sure to follow her on Instagram and Facebook to stay up to date with all of their shenanigans.

The post Exploring Chickasaw Country, Oklahoma with Kids 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 content. The author received a hosted stay in exchange for the content shared below. The views and opinions expressed belong to the author.

A special trip for a special occasion 

When our children were young, my husband and I decided that we would take them on a special trip for their 10th birthday. A child’s 10th birthday is a very special occasion, and we wanted a special way to mark the milestone. We thought that a trip would be a great way to commemorate the move from young childhood and celebrate who they are.

For their 10th birthday, we let our kids decide where they’d like to go for their special trip. The only parameter is that it has to be in the contiguous United States. My son decided that he wanted to play in the ocean, so I started researching places to stay with clear water and somewhere on the Gulf Coast.

Searching for the perfect destination led me to Sanibel and Captiva Island in Florida. My son had never been to Florida, so this seemed like the perfect time to take him there. We opted to drive and took some mini detours, including a quick pit stop to check out Morrison Springs in NW Florida. I’ll never forget the joy on my son’s face as we got to take in a new experience together. 

Driving to Captiva Island with kids

The drive to Florida from Arkansas was long but beautiful. We are experienced road trippers, so long drives don’t both us. If you want a few suggestions on how we road trip, check out this post on road trip safety tips for traveling with kids and this post on screen-free road trip ideas for kids.

When we crossed the causeway to get to Sanibel, we were both so excited we could hardly wait. The beautiful turquoise water was calling our name. We arrived in Sanibel and continued north toward Captiva Island. The drive takes you through the incredible J.N. “Ding” Darling Wildlife Refuge. If you have the time, it’s absolutely worth a side trip and it is well known for incredible birding.

Arriving at South Seas Island Resort

South Seas Island Resort is located at the northern tip of Captiva Island, with 330 acres of sub tropical paradise. The resort was originally was a key lime farm, and in 1946 was opened as a fishing resort. Currently, it is a luxury resort that compliments the natural landscape of the island that is available to resort guests only. My son was most excited about the 2.5 miles of private beach to explore, play, and hopefully find some amazing shells. 

Outdoor lunch at South Seas

After checking into our room, we headed for the beach to check out the Attitudes and Latitudes food shack and beach bar.  It’s a charming outdoor dining option with colorful seating and beautiful ocean views. My son enjoyed his own fancy drink (a non-alcoholic daiquiri), and I had a margarita. The food shack has kid friendly options like chicken quesadillas and they have vegetarian and gluten free options too. I enjoyed a vegetarian street taco made with corn tortillas. It was delicious! My son and I could hardly believe how beautiful and relaxing it was to enjoy our lunch with an ocean breeze while staring out at the ocean. 

Tennis at South Seas Island Resort

There is plenty to do at South Seas, including tennis! Blackwood Tennis Academy is onsite at the resort. The tennis center has eleven courts, and there are professional instructors available for private or group lessons. My son and I had court time reserved for us, and they also have racquets and balls available for rent. After we received our racquets, new can of balls, and water, I let my son decide where we should play.

It was still hot in the afternoon, but we had a great time rallying back and forth. I won one game, and he won one game. However, when we took to a game he plays at practice at home called “drop shot city,” he easily took it to me.

We had such a great time playing on the well maintained courts, which we had to ourselves! There are also pickleball courts and equipment available to resort guests. 

Dining options at South Seas Island Resort

The resort has several dining options, from beachfront-casual to marina-view formal. For our dinner the first night, we went to The Point, which overlooks the resort pool complex and, behind that, the Pine Island Sound. The menu at The Point is broad and features kid-friendly items like the “cheeseburger in paradise” or options from the kid’s menu. The gluten-free quinoa power bowl was delicious, and I highly recommend it!

We had such a peaceful dinner with hardly anyone else at the restaurant. At the end of our meal, we were treated to watching dolphins play as the sun started to dip lower.

Two other restaurants on site are: Crooked Snook Tiki Bar and Scoops and Slices. Scoops is a very cute 1950’s style pizza diner and ice cream parlor. Be prepared because when you walk inside, there is a wall of bulk candy that will have your kiddos begging for a special treat. 

A sunset we’ll never forget

After dinner, we changed back into our still wet swimsuits and headed for the beach again. The sun was just above the horizon, and there was live music in the food shack area. My son and I built a sand castle and played in the waves as the last of the light faded away. As the sun slipped under the horizon, the musician brought a group down to the beach to blow a conch shell, saying goodnight to the sun and goodbye to another day in paradise. It was the most perfect end to a fun-filled day.

We stayed until the stars came out and we started to get cold from our wet swimsuits. Back in the room, we took turns enjoying the massive, walk-in tile and glass shower. We ended our evening by sharing some candy that was in our welcome basket and watching dock diving dogs on tv. What a great day!

Shelling in Sanibel

One of the things we loved about South Seas Island Resort was walking the beach to look for shells. Sanibel is known for its amazing shelling, and the beaches by the resort did not disappoint. After grabbing breakfast for my son and an almond milk latte for me at the Ship Store, we took it to the beach so we could get a jump start looking for the best shells. It was so early that we were the only ones there. It was an excellent morning for shelling, and we found so many incredible shells! My son just combed the beach, and I used my goggles to dive down into the clear water and find what I could. We make a pretty great shelling team!

Sanibel and Captiva are known for having incredible shells; in fact, there are over 250 different kinds of shells to find on the islands!  Please search and collect responsibly, and be sure that the shell you picked up isn’t inhabited before taking it with you. 

Onsite rentals at the resort

South Seas Island Resort is a Run Wild Recommends resort for many reasons, and one of them is all of the onsite activities and amenities that are outside and family-friendly. I already mentioned the rental for tennis, so now let’s talk about water adventures! Sunny Island Adventures is a vendor at the resort that offers everything from jet ski, paddleboard, boat, and kayak rentals, to parasailing and more. They also have golf carts and bike rentals, for adventuring on land. 

A closer look at mangroves

We rented kayaks for a unique outdoor adventure into the mangroves on our second day. We each got our own kayak, and we paddled over to the bayou in search of seeing manatees! It was magical to paddle along the red mangroves. My son spotted lots of ospreys, and we saw a cownose stingray gliding along beneath us. While we didn’t see any manatees, it was so much fun to experience the bayou side of the island by kayak. Remember to take along a water bottle, hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen! 

The resort pools and waterslides

After another lunch at The Point, we decided it was time to check out the swimming pools for a little more water fun. South Seas Island Resort has a resort pool complex with an adult-only pool and a family-friendly large pool. My son’s favorite part was the third pool which had waterslides.

There are two waterslides, one short and fast, and one that has more twists and turns. Somehow we lucked out with no one else there, and we went down both those slides at least twenty times. They were so much fun!

Our final night

For dinner on our final night, we had a reservation at the Harbourside Grill. The restaurant offers a fine dining experience at South Seas Island Resort, and it has both indoor and outdoor seating. My son wanted to eat outside, so we sat on the patio, where we had great views of the marina and all of the boats.

Harbourside Grill has plenty of seafood options, as well as many gluten-free choices. We shared a shrimp appetizer, and for dinner, my son went with a cheeseburger again. I enjoyed the salmon with vegetables. The meal was the perfect way to end our experience at South Seas, and after a great conversation about what my son hopes for his eleventh year, we toasted to the year ahead.  

Run Wild recommends South Seas

There are so many reasons why South Seas Island Resort is a Run Wild Recommends resort. Here are a few of our favorite things:

• The Sanibel Island Sea School – This incredible sea school for kids has a location right on the resort! The summer camps are available for children aged 6 to 13. Your children can learn all about beachcombing, the diverse marine ecosystem, and the natural environment around the island while you enjoy relaxing at the resort! 
• Scout About – South Seas has its own discovery app, called Scout About. There are 20 discovery points throughout the 330 acres to digitally collect. Get them all, and you can claim your prize at the pool complex. 
• Water sports rentals – Sunny Island Adventures is on-site for all of your aquatic adventure needs. 
• Colgate offshore sailing school – This sailing school offers a range of courses including a three-hour sailing school for families. 
• Golf course and tennis courts
• Multiple outdoor dining options
• Bike, boat, and golf cart rentals
• Multiple accommodation options from guest rooms with multiple beds to houses for rent
• Captiva Cruises – This cruise company offers wildlife watching excursions and eco-cruises. We went on a wildlife tour and saw manatees, dolphins, and so much more!

An experience we’ll never forget

Our experience at South Seas Island Resort was magical. From the peaceful room with a beautiful balcony overlooking the harbor to the kayak adventures on clear water. The shelling, the sunsets, the incredible dining. And of course, the waterslides, snacks, and ice cream! Thank you to South Seas Island Resort for a tenth birthday trip that we’ll never forget. 

Follow me on Instagram for even more shenanigans at coleyraeh, or check out my personal website HERE. To see a video of our trip, check out this Reel on Instagram. 

More recommended destinations

For more Run Wild Recommends travel recommendations, take a look at our Travel Recommendations page, or click on any of the linked posts below for full write-ups. 

• Vista Verde Ranch (CO)
• Bolton Valley Resort (VT)
• Sun River Resort (OR)

The BEST way to stay in the know is to sign up for our weekly newsletter and get our FREE guide with our favorite travel resources. 

About the author

Nichole is mama to two incredible adventurers, an older boy and a younger girl, and they are on their fifth year of homeschooling. She has been married to her best friend for nearly thirteen 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 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 South Seas Island Resort 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.

Run Wild My Child has that resource just for you! We are pleased to announce the launch of our Get Out Guides! Executive team member Nichole Holze has put her talent for finding unique kid-friendly outdoor adventures to use as the Editor of these new guides, which are available now!

What exactly are Get Out Guides?

As super-outdoorsy parents, we get asked all the time for our favorite outdoor activities with kids. We’ve tried so many. We love finding new creative, and unique ways to spend time outside together. And we want you to do the same. So, we put everything together for you in one convenient place! Introducing…our Get Out Guides! 

The Run Wild My Child Get Out Guides are our one-stop resource for travel planning! We know what outdoor activities kids (and parents) love. We designed these digital ebooks (which you can print, if you want) with outdoor-loving families in mind! These guides are meant to help you plan your travels (both near and far) or perhaps even help you be a tourist in your own city. 

They’re cultivated to be a resource to help you discover fun places to explore both close to home and while traveling. The Get Out Guides are community-sourced and vetted, with lists of things to do and places to see, each carefully selected to highlight a different adventure in a specific city or area. 

What is in the Get Out Guides?

Our Get Out Guides are packed full of enough adventures to keep you busy for an entire vacation and beyond. While each guide is unique to the area it covers, there are a few commonalities that you’ll find in all of our Get Out Guides. The following items and topics can be found in each of our Get Out Guides:

• hiking trails
• biking trails
• outdoor dining locations (and to-go food options for outdoor picnics)
• parks and playgrounds
• farms and farmer’s markets
• unique outdoor attractions
• nature centers and gardens
• water adventures
• sample itineraries (if you only have a day or weekend to explore)
• resources

Each Get Out Guide is unique

Each Get Out Guide is jam-packed with our favorite tried and tested outdoor activities. We’ve included all the favorites (listed above), but each city has so many things that make it unique, so each guide will be a little different and tailored to highlight what’s great about each area.

For example, our Bentonville Get Out Guide has a “day in the life” page that highlights an ideal day from a local parent, extra biking adventures (because Bentonville is known for that), links to websites or social media for all of the adventures listed, places to stay and camp, and an interactive map that you can use to play your activities! The St. Louis Get Out Guide has all the traditional outdoor activities listed above, but includes additional fun things to do like golfing, fishing (fly fishing and spinning rod), geocaching, baseball, urban adventures, animal encounters, and more! 

Why do you need a Get Out Guide?

Why wouldn’t you?!

But really, these guides are going to help so many parents just like you find new ways to explore outside with your kids. We want to cultivate a resource for busy families that aligns with our core value of getting kids off screens and outdoors. That applies while traveling or adventuring in your hometown. We want to make it a little easier for parents to plan outdoor adventures while traveling and be a resource for local families to discover even more adventures right in their own city. 

Our Get Out Guides are different than traditional travel guides. You won’t find many major indoor attractions in them. Fewer play centers, more parks, and playgrounds. Fewer museums, more hikes, and creeks. Fewer restaurants, more patios, and picnic options. They focus on the OUTDOORS, on connecting you and your kids (not only to each other, but also) to nature. They’ll give you tons of ideas and inspiration for making lifelong outside memories with your family, and help you raise a nature kid.

We hope that these Get Out Guides inspire you to examine how you spend time outdoors while vacationing and open new doors to adventure right at home. 

Who are the Get Out Guides for?

Busy parents that want to spend more time adventuring outside with their kids. Is that you? 

Truly, our intention with these guides is to share adventures that are accessible for everyone. Whether you’re a local parent wanting new ideas for places to explore and things to do in your own city or just passing through the area on a family road trip and want to get outside to explore and play, this guide is for you. We know that you don’t have a million hours to research all the best outdoor places to play and plan your activities. And sometimes the research won’t get you the “good spots’ that only the locals know about! That’s why these guides are so good – they’re written by parents that know, live, and play in that area. 

We hope our guides will bring value and a little relief when it comes to planning outdoor adventures. They will save you time. They will save you the headache. And they will blow you away! 

How does RWMC put them together?

Each Get Out Guide is put together a member of our team or volunteer from our community that lives in the area they’re covering. Not only do we each know our respective areas VERY well, but we also reached out to other local moms in our online community to make sure all our bases were covered. 

With each upcoming new guide we put out, we hope to gather contributions from our amazing community! And yes, that includes YOU! We have an intake form for anyone and everyone to make submissions of their favorite outdoor activities, adventures, and locations in their area. If your submission is included in the Guide, you’ll receive a spot on the contributor page with a link of your choosing! 

What format are the Get Out Guides and how can I get one?

The Get Out Guides are digital downloadable PDFs. When you purchase a Get Out Guide, you’ll receive a link to download a zip file that contains the guide. You’ll also receive an email with the link. You can save the Get Out Guide to your computer or phone for easy access anytime you want. Or, you can print them out and refer back to them as you need to. Feel free to make notes on the places you want to explore or check them off as you check them out!

The Get Out Guides are for sale on the Run Wild My Child website. 

Make sure to sign up for our newsletter so that you can be one of the first ones to know when a new guide is released! 

Get Out Guides – Bentonville, Arkansas

Northwest Arkansas is a not-so-hidden-anymore gem of a place to visit, especially with kids. It’s where art and nature combine, where bike trails connect the entire city, and public art can be found on every corner. You’ll also find a thriving foodie culture and a world-class coffee scene. Northwest Arkansas is so much more than the home of Walmart and we want to invite you to see all it has to offer! Get the Guide!

Get Out Guides – St. Louis, MO

We are also launching the Get Out Guide for St. Louis, Missouri. If you know STL, you know that nature is everywhere in this city! It’s easier than you would ever think to find a challenging hike through the woods with gorgeous bluff overviews, a shallow rock-bed creek to explore, or long flat biking trails through parks, fields, and neighborhoods. Yes, St. Louis is home to the Arch and the Budweiser Clydesdales and the Cardinals (all of which we cover), but it’s so much more! It’s surrounded by limestone caves and coldwater trout streams and art and food! It’s a lovely place to live and fun to explore if you’re in the area. Get the Guide!

Get Out Guide – Cape Cod, MA

Cape Cod is a charming and picturesque geographic cape in the southeast corner of Massachusetts. It is a popular summer vacation destination but features tons of year-round outdoor fun and adventure. It’s an expansive area, and can be a bit overwhelming to find all the good outdoorsy stuff you’re looking for. The Guide will help you find a gorgeous beach to explore, a bike trail to trek, a windy river to kayak, a tidepool to explore, the best kid-friendly hiking trails, and our favorite ice cream shops. There are so many unique Instagrammable locations, amazing restaurants and boutiques, beautiful lighthouses, historic trails and museums, and so much more!

Get Out Guide – Virginia Beach, VA

Virginia Beach is hands-down one of the prettiest, most fun, and outdoorsy beach towns on the Eastern Shore. Virginia Beach is the largest city in the state and covers a huge area, so it can be really overwhelming for families to find all the good outdoorsy stuff you’re looking for. That’s where our guide comes in! We’re here to help you find a gorgeous beach to explore, a bike trail to trek, a place to see wildflife, a tidepool to explore, and an outdoor patio to enjoy a seafood lunch with your kids. There are so many unique Instagrammable locations, amazing restaurants and boutiques, educational outdoor activities, skate parks, historic landmarks, gorgeous trails, kid-friendly museums, and so much more!

More Get Out Guides coming soon!

Stay tuned because we’re working hard on a few more Get Out Guides. Upcoming Get Out Guides include Lake Tahoe, Kansas City, San Diego, and MORE! We have boots on the ground with Creative Team members in these areas that are busy helping us find the absolute BEST outdoor activities. If you’re interested in submitting an idea for the Get Out Guides, visit THIS link or reach out to our Get Out Guide Editor, Nichole. You can find her on Instagram at @coleyraeh or on her website. 

GET THE GUIDES

We are so thrilled to launch the new Run Wild My Child Get Out Guides! We hope that they help to inspire you to get outside and adventure together, whether close to home or on the road! Happy adventuring! 

GET OUT GUIDE - ST. LOUIS

GET OUT GUIDE - BENTONVILLE

GET OUT GUIDE - VIRGINIA BEACH

GET OUT GUIDE - CAPE COD

The post Get Out Guides appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

This post contains affiliate links

Hiking essentials for families

Hiking has always been one of our family’s most favorite hobbies. Before having kids, while I was pregnant, then with littles, and now with not-so-little children (when did my kids get so big!?), hiking has been a big part of my life. Hiking can be such a fun family adventure, but it also has a few inherent risks. The best way to be prepared for those risks is to be aware and make sure you packed your hiking essentials.

In this post, I’m going to share the 10 essential things you should have with you on any hiking adventure with kids. I’ll also break our hiking essentials list down for shorter hikes, longer hikes, and everything in between. Plus, I’m including a few tips I’ve learned after hiking with kids for almost ten years!

But, before we begin, I have this piece of advice for you regarding sustainability and eco-friendly choices. Before buying anything new, start with what you have. Most likely, you can find something for each of these categories that you already own. Begin there. Then, as you’re ready for more challenges you can make adjustments, tweaks, or additional purchases where necessary. Alright, let’s go! 

What are the 10 essentials for hiking?

The official idea of the “ten essentials” came from Mountaineering magazine back in 1974, but has gained popularity since then as being an excellent way to be prepared while exploring the outdoors. While the original list of essential hiking items was designed with extreme adventure in mind, it can still be used by families. Because, let’s be honest, hiking with children of any age is undoubtedly an extreme adventure, whether it’s two miles or ten!

The 10 essentials of hiking gear list has always sought to answer two basic questions:

1. Can you prevent emergencies and respond positively should one occur?
2. Can you safely spend a night (or more) outside?

The list of hiking essentials falls into these categories: navigation, light source, sun protection, first aid, knife, fire, shelter, food, water, and clothing. Generally, I keep something in my backpack to check off each of those categories. But, what you need for hiking with your family can change depending on the adventure. So, let’s dig a little deeper into each category and modify them a bit for what you’ll need when hiking with kids. 

Choosing a hiking backpack

Before I get into the details of what essential items you need for hiking with kids, I want to talk about a bag to carry it all in. In my opinion, a backpack is an essential piece of gear! It needs to 1) be comfortable, 2) have enough pockets to hold your important items, and 3) be something you love.

My “adventure bag” is a Jansport Agave 32 that I’ve had for years. It’s held up well to all kinds of adventure. I’ve added patches and pins to make it my own, and it even has a sleeve for a hydration bladder (more on that later).

Hiking backpacks for kids

My children’s first adventure packs were the Scout backpack from Camelbak. They worked great up until around age six, when they outgrew them. You can check out a video of the little backpacks in action HERE. 

As my children grew, their next (and current) packs are the Osprey Daylight packs, which they use with the water bladder from their old Camelbak packs. The packs are a little bigger, very comfortable, and have plenty of pockets for stashing treasures. 

Quick note: I believe in letting kids carry backpacks as soon as they’re big enough to hike on the trails. Yes, parents, you’ll end up hauling their bags for the second half of the hike, but if you plan on bigger adventures as they get older, it’s a good habit to begin while they’re little. Greta Eskridge talks about this in her book Adventuring Together. 

1. Navigation

The first item on your hiking essentials for families’ gear list relates to navigation. You probably already have an excellent navigation tool in your hand. In fact, it’s probably what you’re reading this blog post from. Yup, it’s your cell phone. Your phone, with its built-in GPS is already an extremely powerful navigation tool! And navigation is one of the ten hiking essentials for families!

Depending on where you’re adventuring, you may or may not have cell phone service. One of the ways that I prep for this is to download a map offline. Using an app like AllTrails is a great way to do that. I pay for the pro version of the app because I use it so frequently and love all the extra features I get with the upgraded paid version. Always check the trail map before you go, but as an added level of safety, having an offline (or hard copy map) saved is important.

Note – For safety’s sake, I recommend NOT recording your hike through the app. You can record it another way and save it privately, there’s no need to share where you adventure unless you feel comfortable doing so. 

I also carry a compass in my backpack. It is a small compass that also has a mirror for emergency signaling. I’ve never used it, but I do know how to, if the situation were to ever arise. Learning to use and navigate with a compass is a really great skill to learn as a family! Someday, the ability to read a map, terrain, and use a compass may save your life. I recommend the book Squiggly Lines as a starting point. Geocaching is also a great way to learn directions and reading a map. 

2. Light source

Another hiking must-have for families is a source of light in your backpacks. Even if you plan on being back to your car well before dark, it’s critical that you have light, just in case you need it. The outdoors can be unpredictable so it’s best to be prepared.

For our family, we each carry a headlamp in our backpacks. All of our headlamps are from Black Diamond. Mine is a rechargeable headlamp and the others use triple-A batteries. I let my children carry their headlamps in their own backpacks, because when they’re little it makes them feel pretty special. When I first gave my daughter her own headlamp, she wore it the entire hike, in broad daylight. But, it made her feel like she could conquer the world. 

Pro tip – if you’re going to invest in headlamps, don’t bother buying children’s headlamps. Your kids are only going to grow so get them a piece of gear that will grow and last for them. 

Flashlights or pen lights also work great as a light sourcet! As a last resort, you can also carry a lighter or matches in your pack and emergency candle. 

3. Protection from the elements

Having something that can protect you from the elements is one of the hiking essentials for families that can vary depending on the seasons and weather. Where we live and hike most often, our protection needs to be from the sun. It’s always important to be mindful of sun protection wherever and whenever you’re hiking, but how much protection you need will change.

For us, I like to carry extra sunscreen and sunhats just in case. My children each carry a Sunday Afternoons sunhat in their backpacks, which my daughter wears more often because she’s prone to sunburn. If you’re going to be adventuring near water or the ocean, please be sure that you’re using a Reef Safe sunscreen! We also really like the Sahara shirts from REI. They are moisture-wicking and lightweight enough to not be too warm in the heat of the sun, but also provide great sun protection. 

Pro tip: Children grow, quickly, so if your kids are over the age of four, I recommend just getting them an adult size hat and not a child-sized one. Most of them have a chin strap and head strap you can cinch down, and it will last them into adulthood.

It’s important to be mindful of what season you’re in or what weather you may encounter. For us, it’s all about layering. In cooler or cold weather, we layer a warm sweatshirt with our rain jackets to stay warm. It works twofold: it locks in body heat while also keeping out moisture and wind. Get in the habit of checking the weather as you prepare for your adventure day! But also, prepare for the unexpected. A lightweight raincoat can provide protection from the sun as well as wind, rain, and cold. 

4. First Aid

I’ll be the first to say it: I am not a wilderness first aid expert. Shocking, I know! I’m just a Mom, who has learned through experience what works, what doesn’t, and what is important. First aid is definitely important, especially with wild rambunctious kids. So, the next thing on your hiking essentials for families’ gear list relates to first aid.

If you plan on bigger and more epic expeditions, I would recommend picking up a book on Wilderness First Aid to read at your leisure or taking a wilderness first aid class. This training and knowledge will make you much safer and more confident on the trail.

For our first aid, I always carry an Ultralight/Watertight first aid kit from Adventure Medical Kits. They’re very compact, last for years, and hold up to being fully submerged in a creek (yes, I know this from experience). Having some sort of first aid kit is essential for families, whether your hiking solo or with your whole crew.

Pro tip: when my husband and I rode Amtrak out to Glacier to go backpacking (that’s a story in and of itself) we made our own First Aid kit. This is easy to do with a waterproof bag (like a Ziploc bag) and supplies you already have at home. For space-saving and durability, I do recommend purchasing an adventure or camping-type first aid kit. 

For a full list of what should be in your first aid kit and how to be safe on the trail with kids, check out our post on Hiking Safety Tips and Hiking First Aid. 

5. Multitools or a knife

Having a multitool or knife is a hiking essential that is up to interpretation and what each family feels comfortable with. What you choose to carry as an essential is based on your needs. This essential hiking item could come in handy in a variety of ways and scenarios, but should always be supervised around small children. 

I always carry a knife and my children each have their own multitool. My daughter even named hers, it’s called her “Brave Tool.” A multitool or even a first pocketknife make wonderful gift items for outdoorsy kids. My children love carrying their own multitool and whip out the little knife on theirs almost every chance they get to whittle their own little spears.

The knife that I carry serves a dual purpose; as a survival tool, but also as self-protection, should I need either. My knife is one of the tools in my backpack that always stays there, along with my headlamp, compass, and first aid kit, so that it’s always ready to go. The same is true for my children’s multitools. They always stay in their backpacks. They can get them out to play or use at home, but they are stored in their adventure packs. 

6. Fire

I never plan on needing to make a fire while out on day hikes with kids, but there have been times that I’ve done so just to keep warm while we stop for lunch, or relax for a little while. The ability to start a fire can literally mean life or death in a survival situation, so I always carry a way to start a fire on every adventure, big or small. A method of making/starting a fire is the next hiking essential for families. 

The easiest thing to do is to always carry a lighter, which I do. It’s just a simple Bic lighter that takes up minimal space. However, I also like to have a backup, so I also carry a magnesium fire striker. You can also look into a flint and steel rod.

Pro tip: whatever backup method you choose, practice with it! Make sure you know how to use it! Here’s a great post about teaching kids how to build fires from another creative team member! 

7. Shelter

One of my kids’ favorite activities is to practice building survival shelters in the woods. Because who doesn’t love building a fort? While those forts are great practice for an emergency. And shelter is the next essential hiking item for families.

I like to be prepared for the worst and carry an emergency bivvy in my backpack, especially if it’s a hike over five miles or very remote. A “bivvy” is short for bivouac shelter, which means any sort of temporary or emergency shelter usually employed by soldiers, mountaineers, backpackers, or other outdoor adventurists. The ones we use are basically a reflective blanket in sleeping bag form. They are packed very small and take up little to no weight or space in an adventure backpack.

For our big hikes (ten miles or more) I have each of my children carry one. We like the Emergency Bivvy from Adventure Medical Kits, which is no longer available. But, here is a great alternative: Go Time Gear Life Bivvy. This piece of essential hiking gear may not be one you ever need, but when you need it, it could save you or your children’s life. They trap body heat while also providing protection from the elements. 

8. Water, water, water

Never underestimate how much water you’ll need when hiking with kids. On our last big hike (a ten-mile round trip hike to see a hidden waterfall), I forgot that the hike had no access to water. This meant I was sharing what I had in my hydration bladder with our dog. (ps – do not recommend). I ended up running out of water with two miles to go still. Don’t do like I did, plan ahead. Water is one of the most important hiking essentials for families. 

Both of my children carry their own hydration bladder (also from Camelbak). We introduced these when they received their first hiking packs when they were tiny and they LOVED them. Water is HEAVY so it’s important to find a way to carry it without added weight. The insulated water bottles are nice, but they also add a lot of weight. We prefer hydration bladders, for any and all outdoor endeavors. 

The last piece of essential hiking gear for families is a means to purify water. We love the water filters from Sawyer, check out their mini filter in action HERE. I keep one of those filters with a straw in a Stasher bag, in my adventure pack at all times.  You can also check out Lifestraw or this neat on-the-go filter from MSR. In a survival situation (or if your water filtration fails, which we’ve had happen to us) you can start a fire to bring water to boiling. It’s critical that the water reaches a boiling point for sixty seconds to kill off any bacteria. Water is the most important thing for all adventures and will be priority one in any survival or unexpected outdoor mishaps. I would recommend doing your research to find what feels right for your family and your situation. 

9. Extra food

The ten hiking essentials require extra food, water, and clothing. Again, what you carry depends on your situation, the season, and the weather predictions. Just remember, the outdoors can throw all kinds of wrenches in your plans so it’s best to be prepared.

In general, I carry one to two extra snacks for each person (and my kids don’t know about them.) Those “extras” can be a bonus on the ride home, but will also come in handy if our day takes a turn. Once on a nine-mile day hike with a very poorly marked trail, I had to ration out the extra food. But those extra chocolate chip granola bars were the perfect motivation to keep little legs going, mile after mile.

For other extra food options, sometimes I grab a few meals from our stash of dehydrated meals in our camping gear. These are lightweight, easy to prepare, and last a long time. I never use them unless we have to. My favorites are the meals from Good to Go foods. And here’s a great post filled with awesome trail-test kid-approved hiking snacks. 

10. Extra clothing

The final item on our hiking essentials for families gear list is a bit of extra clothing. Extra clothing can be essential when hiking with kids, but we’re not asking you to pack a suitcase or bring along a closet of clothes for everyone. Extra clothes can also take up a lot of room in your backpack, so pack smart. For extra clothing, we start our hike in all of our layers, then peel them off as we warm up. But as a general rule, we always carry lightweight rain jackets in our bags, just in case. I also recommend an extra pair of dry socks for everyone. Dry socks can help prevent blisters and keep you warm if/when your feet get wet. The same goes for extra gloves in the winter. If you know you’re going to get soaking wet or muddy on a hike (hello creeks!), then bring the essentials on the hike with you and pack a full set of change of clothes to leave in the car so you can change before driving home. 

Backpack essentials and who carries what

I know, I know. I just shared LOTS of information with you. These ten hiking essentials for families may sound like a lot to pack and carry with you on a hike. So, here’s a little breakdown of who carries what in our family that may help you divide and conquer: 

• Mom – water filter, first aid kit, knife, emergency bivvy, sunhat, sunglasses, my own water, main food, compass, fire starter/striker, phone/map
• Kids – their own water, a multitool, two granola bars/snacks, emergency whistle

That’s just for the essentials. Please remember that these are meant to be guidelines, you can adapt and change what you need for your family. Just be sure to have at least something from each of the ten categories listed above. I also recommend letting your children get used to carrying a backpack with some of their own essentials as soon as they are able to hike more than one mile. 

Additional items to pack when hiking with kids

Now that we’ve covered the basic hiking essentials for families, here are a few more items that you might also want to pack and take with you (which may or not be essential, but could definitely be useful!):

• Baby wipes – I always bring a few in a reusable Stasher bag. Why? Because they’re amazing. 
• A garbage bag and disposable gloves – Thes are great to carry out our own trash, but also any trash we see. Because inevitably we will see other peoples’ trash on the trail and we are determined to leave the trail better than we found it. It’s just good outdoor etiquette. 
• Net – My kids would like to argue that a net is also essential, along with a small container for critters or nature treasures found along the way. (Please collect responsibly.)
• Charger – If you’re going to be out for an extended period of time, a backup wireless phone charger is helpful! 
• My kids also love their Relay Go – a screen-free, smartphone that lets me give them a little more freedom to run ahead on the trail, but also lets me keep track of where they are and stay in touch. Learn more HERE. 

Family hiking checklist

There you have it! The 10 hiking essentials for families that will help you feel more prepared, safe and confident when out on the trails with your little ones. Here’s a quick recap of the ten things you need when hiking with kids:

1. navigation
2. light source
3. sun protection
4. first aid
5. knife
6. fire
7. shelter
8. water
9. food
10. clothing

Be prepared, be responsibly brave

Thanks for reading, friends! If you’d like to follow along with all of our shenanigans, you can find me on Instagram HERE. You can also sign up for my once per month Field Notes newsletter HERE.

P.S.  If you join my newsletter you’ll be the first to know when I open up my FREE Respsonsibly Brave Adventure course again! Here’s to chasing the adventure, prepared for whatever gets thrown our way. ~Nichole

More resources for hiking with kids 

If you’re interested in more great content about hiking with kids, be sure to check out the following posts:

• Best Hiking Shoes for Kids
• Best Baby Carriers for Hiking
• Making DIY Hiking Sticks with Kids
• Trail-Test & Kid-Approved Hiking Snacks
• Ultimate List of Outdoor Gear for Kids

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 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.

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

The post 10 Hiking Essentials for Families appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

This post contains affiliate links. 

Gardening as a family

Gardening is one of our family’s favorite outdoor hobbies. I didn’t grow up gardening, though. In fact, I had to learn how to garden (TWICE) as an adult. Once in zone 5 and again when we moved to zone 8. Gardening is a hobby that continually teaches us to pay attention to the small things, but also brings us such joy throughout the year. While most of the actual gardening happens in spring and summer, winter is when a great garden begins! And here is how I bring my children into the garden planning process! 

How to get started gardening in your zone

The question I get asked most often is: “Where do I start?” My answer is always the same…before you buy seeds or shop your local garden center, you need to learn what “zone” you’re in. Your garden zone determines what you plant and when. It’s a critical piece of information to begin your planning process.

One of the best resources for this is your local master gardeners* chapter. I’ve always found that the master gardeners are so helpful and eager to share their knowledge with new gardeners. You can find your local chapter by an internet search or by contacting your county’s agriculture extension office. Prior to the pandemic, I used to attend a monthly talk given by my local master gardeners. Those talks have now moved online and many of them are free to attend via Zoom! I filled an entire notebook with notes I took at those meetings. 

* “Master gardeners” are people who have received extensive training in gardening in their area (usually through a university program) and then provide information to the public via phone or email helplines, speaking at public events, writing articles for publications and the internet, and partnering with other community programs, gardens, and educational facilities.

Laying out the plans

The next step in planning your garden is to layout your plan and figure out what you want to plant and where. This process changes every year (sometimes multiples times in a year). Here’s how our garden layout planning has gone: We made garden plans. And we changed them. Then we put in raised beds. And we changed the plans again. Then we added a keyhole garden. And changed plans yet again. This last year we added an arch tunnel and two more raised bed gardens. We changed our plans again.

The good news is that you can make plans and add to them as often or as little as you want. One really beautiful thing about gardening is that there is no right or wrong way to do it. There are ways that work better/best, but sometimes those take trial and error to figure out. Yes, you can dive deep into getting soil mixtures right and testing to be sure they’re the right balance and pH. Or, you can just learn along the way, celebrating the wins and learning from your losses.

The garden planning process

We take the learn as we go route. My first step in the garden planning process is to draw out the layout of my garden. I make a smaller copy for myself and a larger version for my children. For older children, you could use grid paper and have them make the aerial view to scale. With younger children, draw in the shapes of your garden. Or just give them a big piece of cardboard left over from the holidays and let them have at it.

It’s also fun to let them imagine what their own garden plot would look like, whether it’s an actual garden space or just a pot of their very own. We get out our art supplies and draw what our garden space looks like from above. There are no rules for this, it’s meant to be fun. So set aside lessons and expectations, and have some fun. 

Put your pens and markers to paper

After you have the outline of your garden space complete, it’s time to start filling it in. Older children can label and work on spatial awareness as they designate a place for each plant. It’s also a great way to work on handwriting. Younger children can color or draw what they want in their garden space. I like to go back to the garden map I made the previous year, to see what I had growing where, what was a perennial or annual, and what I want to change.

As you learn to garden, one thing I highly recommend is to be a casual journaler. I’m not talking about obsessive growing notes, but if that’s you, go for it. More like just making notes throughout your year about what is growing well, what isn’t, what pests you’re dealing with, and things you’d like to change. Then you can refer to those notes as you plan for the next year. Mental notes are great (if you can remember them), but I prefer paper. A simple journal works great, but you can also find all kinds of garden journals or diaries for more detailed notetaking. 

Making garden planning fun for kids

One of the best ways to make the garden planning fun and visual for children is to let them cut up pictures to paste onto the map you made. Remember middle school (ish?) when we cut up photos from magazines and newspapers? Then we glued them onto our trapper keepers to make them super cool? Yeah, we’re doing that again! But this time it’s with seed catalogs.

WITH WHAT?! Yes, with seed catalogs. By the time I’m ready to plan with my kids, I’ve already poured over the countless number of seed catalogs I received (several times). I order all of my seeds online so I don’t need the magazines anymore, but they are so pretty and filled with vivid photos of plants. It’s so fun to make the garden plans highly visual with the pretty pictures.

I give my kids the seed catalogs, scissors, and glue and let them have at it. Fix yourself a coffee or tea, turn on some classical music, and browse your own garden journal. You can even organize your seeds while they have fun. It’s a great way to visually see your garden, all the colors and shapes, the various plants, flowers and vegetables.  Plus, it gets the kids excited about the process and they become knowledgeable about the plants in your garden.

To really make garden planning special for kids, designate a garden space just for your children. Make a little garden sign for their space, let them choose a seed packet, and let them be in charge from start to finish. 

This case is for organizing photos but it works GREAT for seeds. Find it HERE. 

When and where do you order seeds?

Yesterday. No really, order them right now. ASAP. Due to current world circumstances, seed shops and garden centers are seeing unprecedented amounts of orders. Baker Creek seeds has shut its website down several times to get caught up on orders. Seed Savers has a disclaimer up about the delayed shipping times. Seed companies all over are struggling to keep up with the demand. However, you can get seeds locally at big box garden centers and local garden centers.

If you’re hoping to save your seeds, I would recommend buying non-GMO, organic, or heirloom seeds to begin, to be sure of saving high-quality plants. Another great way to gather seeds is to participate in a seed swap with gardening friends. A page that I adore, Jill Ragan of Whispering Willow Farm does a huge seed swap every year and it’s really neat. Also, a huge shout out to Jill for her genius seed organizing idea. She’s an inspiring gardener and I highly recommend following her. 

What you’ll need for garden planning with kids

To make the garden planning FUN for you and your children, here is what I recommend:

• Markers, crayons, pencils, paint, any and all art supplies
• Scissors and glue (glue sticks work best)
• Gardening magazines and seed catalogs
• A large piece of paper, or piece of a cardboard
• Graph paper for older children
• Finger paints and finger paint paper for younger children
• A large workspace – clear the kitchen table or do it on a hard surface floor
• A no-rules attitude, let the creativity flow (that includes you too)
• Some background jams (I prefer classical music)
• Snacks
• Coffee or tea for mental stimulation, plus it just tastes good

Remember, this is meant to be a fun activity to involve your children in the planning process, so let it be fun! If they mess up and put sunflowers in the middle of the tomatoes, it doesn’t matter. It’s an opportunity to learn, for everyone. 

What about older children?

Garden planning is a great opportunity for older children to do some critical thinking. Here are some ways to involve older children that will help them with some STEM skills and concepts:

• Have them generate a graph to show seed starting dates and when to plant in the ground
• Research companion planting
• Create a planting schedule
• Make a budget for seed spending
• Practice taking soil pH samples
• Create wet mount slides to look at the soil under a microscope (Nematodes, yay!)
• Make a business plan for selling transplants (small plants grown from seed)

There are so many ways to make this project fun for the whole family. I highly suggest getting everyone involved. The world has felt so heavy in the last year and having a family hobby that gets everyone involved, excited, and eventually outside is a very, very good thing. 

A few favorite gardening resources

I’m an entirely self-taught gardener. Everything I know came from reading, listening to talks and speeches, obsessive internet searching, trial and error, and asking lots of questions. I encourage you to find books, magazines, podcasts, people, mentors, and even gardening accounts on social media. These resources are so important and helpful as you learn what works for you and your family.

Here are a few of my favorite gardening books:

• Edible Landscaping by Rosalind Creasy – Her original book is nearly impossible to find now, however she has many other books available on Amazon. 
• The Vegetable Gardener’s Bible by Edward C. Smith
• Raised Bed Gardening for Beginners by Tammy Wylie
• Carrots Love Tomatoes by Louise Riotte
• Junior Master Gardeners Handbook
• Up in the Garden, Down in the Dirt by Kate Messner
• Seeds! Seeds! Seeds! by Nancy Wallace
• We are the Gardeners by Joanna Gaines

Spiders make a regular appearance in our garden. 

Want even more gardening goodness?

If you’d like to hear more about our gardening shenanigans and follow along on our growing journey, you’re in luck! You can read about the luffa vines that took over our garden and how my kids made a little business out of it HERE. Do you love sunflowers? Me too! You can read about our end of the season sunflower dissection HERE. I also made garden Reels videos my “thing” last summer on Instagram. Here’s a fun one, and another fun one.  Follow along as our garden grows on #coleyraegardens. I’m here to help answer any questions I can or point you in the right direction. And please tag me (@coleyraeh) on social media if you make garden plans. I’d love to see them! 

Are you excited about planning your garden this year?
Will you make some plans ahead of time or make it up as you go? 

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 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.

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

The post Winter Garden Planning with Kids appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.