Waterfalls. Canyons. Native American Art. Rare geological formations. It’s all at Petit Jean State Park in northern Arkansas. This 3500-acre state park 70 miles northwest of Little Rock sits between the Ozarks and Ouachita Mountains, a solitary and distinctive place for spending time outdoors. Not only is there an incredible number of natural features to see, but it’s possible to stay the night in comfort with so many different accommodation options. In short, Petit Jean State Park is an easy and exciting getaway.

You can stay in the rustic Mather Lodge, with 24 guest rooms, a gift shop, a swimming pool, and a restaurant. The lodge overlooks Cedar Creek Canyon. Over 30 cabins are next to the lodge, if you’d prefer more privacy. They look rustic, but come with all the modern amenities you need.
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From the lodge, you can hike the 2-mile round-trip Cedar Falls Trail past massive boulders and tall trees to 95-ft Cedar Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in Arkansas. Time your hike with rainfall for an atmospheric photo shoot. The hike is rated as moderate to strenuous.
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If you don’t want to endure a strenuous hike to the waterfall, you can also view Cedar Falls from an overlook above, one of several scenic overlooks that are easily accessible.
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The park features incredible geological formations, including the Rock House Cave rock shelter. 500-year-old Native American rock art is at the site as well, adding a historical element. Rock House Cave is easily accessed via 0.25-mile, easy hike.
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Hiking the trail to Rock House Cave, visitors pass a peculiar geological oddity known as “turtle rocks.”
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More cool rock formations are on the moderately difficult Seven Hollows Trail, including rock shelters and a natural stone arch. The hike is 4.5 miles round trip, but the scenery is worth it.
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There are so many features to this state park, with over 20 miles of hiking trails in total through forests, meadows, canyons, and mountains. There’s also a campground with 125 campsites and rental yurts. You can also go fishing, rent a kayak, or relax on a pedal boat. Check the state park’s website for seasonal hours for the boat house and rental prices.

Have you visited Petit Jean State Park? What are your favorite features of this hidden gem?

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Petit Jean State Park Lake, Arkansas 72110, USA