It was a beautiful morning, perfect for exploring trails along the state park. We drove :30, 2…read moremiles out of Hot Springs. We started in the visitor center with Wi-Fi, maps, and a small gift shop. We followed the trails down to the marina. We passed campsite's & pullouts. Kayaks, paddle boats, pontoon boats are all available. There was a small beach with two people sitting on chairs.

We drove through part of Lake Ouachita State Park in late July 2025…read more Entrance was free. The lake looked clean everywhere we went. I was impressed. Many boaters, some swimmers (with designated areas and beaches even), some fishermen, and hikers scattered this area of Arkansas just outside of Hot Springs. It was fairly hot when we went, but still good fun and beautiful scenery. If time had permitted, I would have liked to take my daughters to Three Sisters Springs and other places. We instead stayed at Echo Canyon which is not technically part of the state park, but exists on Lake Ouachita.

On our visit to Hot Springs, we were told to check out Garvan Woodland Gardens. It was definitely a…read moregreat decision to come by and have a nice long stroll through the various gardens, forests, streams, and just nature. Its not too hard to find and there's plenty of parking out front. Leaving the parking lot is a little confusing though (signs would be helpful...). But its well worth the trip out! There were a variety of slices of nature and we spent a few hours here and still did not get to see it all. There's a whole nature preserve that's part of it and apparently great in the dawn/dusk to spot and hear various birds. We did see quite a bit of wildlife and fun plants around so even if we missed the preserve it was fun to see everything else. I think this is a great spot to reconnect with nature for a bit. There were well marked paths so it wasn't too strenuous and there were some more kid friendly areas as well for them to explore and run around.

Options for autumn when Canada was "closed" (1 of 2)…read more - - - - - Covid may seemingly be a thing of the past, but, for some, it will never be forgotten because it affected them or their loved ones in far more serious ways. It changed how we interacted, shopped, circulated, and even limited our options as to where we could travel. For a while, Canada was closed and it always comes to the top of my list when it comes to fall colors. That said, other options became New England, the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, and the Ozarks. Garvan Woodland Gardens is located just outside of Hot Springs, Arkansas, thus in the general Ozarks area. Hot Springs itself was already on the map as place of touristic import. Along a major avenue there is "Bathhouse Row," a string of private spas in ornate mansion-sized facilities that rose to fame during the 20th Century. Its most famous visitor may have been Al Capone. I came to learn that Capone died a natural death. One might have thought otherwise. I vaguely knew about these gardens - the Garvan Woodland Gardens. However, if in town and you ask questions about things to do, their existence, and their details, become front and center. It's an easy drive from the small city of Hot Springs. The gardens began as a private garden that then flourished when they were donated and "privatized," or realistically operated by the University of Arkansas. As such, there is an admission fee. As can be expected, the gardens are segmented and themed. The most notable might be the Japanese Garden and the manicured plantings that go with that. There are also other themed areas, including some areas which are a little natural, or scruffier, if you prefer that word. There are other areas such as a toy railroad sort of old town, walkways abutting the lake, and odd contraptions that serve as stairs, bridges, and tree houses. Then, there are some areas with art installations of sort that look sort of granola. I didn't have time to read every placard explaining the logic, if any, of some of these things. There is also a non-denominational chapel on the grounds and it closely resembles the state's Thorncrown Chapel designed by the University of Arkansas's famed alum E. Fay Jones. I had already seen that chapel in Eureka Springs, but, if you can't make it to its remote corner of the state (actually just south of and somewhat close to Branson, Missouri), this one will almost enable you to check Thorncrown Chapel off your list. Seasonal blooms will affect what you see. Note that, if seeking fall color in the state, it will come later than other parts of America owing to the more southerly latitude. In the fall, it won't be as "flowery." The forested lands in which Garvan Wooodlands Gardens sits appear to be studded in Southern pine, and reminded me of the vegetation surrounding the Atlanta area. The employees on hand were very helpful. Note that, in this state, your bucket list ,at the very minimum, would be about 3 state parks, 2 more rugged natural areas, the historic areas of Little Rock, Eureka Springs, and Hot Springs, which would include these gardens. The beauty of everything you see may exceed your expectations. Just about everyone is giving Garvan Woodlands Gardens 5 stars. For its context and area, it should fetch 5 stars. However, compared to other places with a similar admission fee, I felt it was closer to 4 stars. It is nonetheless impressive and recommended and you should also consider the month in which you plan to visit. However, it could also be that the few hippie-dippy things there made for an eye roll. They always do.

Great place for a swim. Nice and clean. Not crowded. Clear buoys for safety. Clearing water. Quiet.read more

Quiet resort town with plenty to see and do for the day. Several restaurants are within walking…read moredistance. Water sports include a float toy island for the kids, kayak rentals, jet ski rentals, and several different kinds of boat tours. Hot springs are in the area and are quite busy. Would recommend going off peak hours to make the most of it.

This was one of the highlights of our Arkansas trip while visiting family from our Florida home…read morebase. For anyone unfamiliar, this is the only diamond mine in the world open to the public where you can actually keep what you find. Some surprisingly large diamonds have been discovered here over the years, so there's always that tiny bit of hope that keeps you searching. What surprised me most was the layout. For some reason I expected caves or mining tunnels, but it's actually a huge open field where visitors search, dig, sift, and surface hunt. We paid $45 total admission for 3 people and thankfully already had equipment provided by our rental house (checkout Punkin's place in Murfreesboro, Arkansas on Airbnb) because you can absolutely spend extra renting tools onsite if needed. We started with wet sifting before moving into dry and surface searching. There were a few muddy sections from recent rain, but overall the conditions were great during our May visit. Slightly overcast skies with an occasional drizzle made the weather perfect for being outside. I honestly can't imagine doing this in the middle of a blazing hot summer afternoon. I had read reviews from people saying they left exhausted, but we approached it a little differently due to some back and shoulder limitations. We worked smart, paced ourselves, and still had a fantastic time. We didn't find diamonds that day, but we did leave with some beautiful rocks and a really fun experience. We would absolutely do this again!

Crater of Diamonds State Park is a fun and unique place to visit. You can actually dig for real…read morediamonds and keep what you find. The experience is exciting and different from most parks. The staff is helpful and the area is easy to explore. A great stop for something memorable and hands on.

I recently visited Hot Springs, Arkansas national Park and me and my family spent several hours…read morethere. We're walking in and out of the bath houses and looking around the area even took some time to ask the gentleman who works for the national parks inside of the main building. Where is some things that we could see around the area? He of course, handed me a map and he said well the best thing we got is right outside the door. There's a fountain outside. For me I was hoping there would be more to that national park than just a few bath houses and a few fountains with hot water now I understand that that is amazing but it definitely under performs as a national park. We did take time to walk around the trails. We did take time to see the other areas, but there's really not much here other than a few hot water springs and some trails to walk on. Now don't let this take away from Hot Springs the city. It is a great city a lot of vibrant shopping in restaurants along Hot Springs. If you're going just to go shopping then you won't be disappointed. There was a lot to do as far as that but from the national Park perspective it was a letdown.

I'm probably going to catch some flak for this because it's not 5 stars, but this was my…read moreexperience... Hot Springs National Park was truly unique. At first I admit I was underwhelmed actually. Then we explored several key features: + Hot Springs Mountain Tower (we drove & didn't go up to the top because we had our dog with us) + Bathhouse Row (viewed everything from outside) + Grand Promenade (dog-friendly path & park area) + Fordyce Bathhouse Visitors Center (dogs not allowed, we found a dog boarder and came back to explore it) The old cranky park ranger that we spoke to inside the Fordyce Center was not friendly at all on 7.21.2025. He was very dismissive and not willing to share any insight beyond the two questions I asked him. Not welcoming. Between my picking up trash scattered throughout the Grand Promenade and his attitude, that's primarily the reason for a star knocked off. It's not operated by the National Park Service, but the Buckstaff Bathhouse is regulated by the NPS. My daughters, ages 12 and 10, really enjoyed a mini spa day there. We bought passes at about 9:30 AM and had no wait. We were out by 11:00 AM. Yes, I recommend you experience this old-fashioned body treatment at least once. There are several wonderful shops and some restaurants within walking distance. On Sunday, metered street parking was free. On Monday, I paid for all-day parking (just a little over $8) in the Exchange Street Parking Plaza garage on Exchange Street. All three of us are highly active, so this was an easy walk for us even in the late July 2025 heat. TIPS + Residents really do fill up every plastic jug they can find at the water fountains. Lol. It's free! There were two cold water springs that I heard about: one at Whittington Park and the other at Happy Hollow. But plenty of folks stopped in front of the NPS Administrative building on Reserve Street. + Don't forget to get your national park passport cancellation stamp inside the Fordyce Bathhouse Visitors Center. It was to the right of the front office when we visited.

Great place to visit with family - caught fish, played at the park, enjoyed the beautiful grounds…read more Love it!

A very nice upkeep park. Great for family. There is a pond near the entrance that people were…read morefishing. Plenty of seatings throughout the park, shaded and not shaded. Being a solo traveling person, I totally feel safe at this park. Many different trails to take. The trails leading to the water was my favorite. I end up just watching people riding their boat and water skiing. Great place to have a picnic also. The fishing pier is my favorite spot to get some sun in and there is a bench there that you can just sit and look out. If you really look, you will find a spot you can actually go down to swim. Not sure if it's safe and permit. Take a look at my picture I posted to see if you can find the spot. BTW, getting to the park is easy breezy but when it's time to get out the park, use caution. Cars coming all different directions with the slopes!

Queen Wilhelmina State Park is located on Rich Mountain, Arkansas' second highest peak. We stayed…read morenearby in an Air BnB and came up to hike one day and another time to watch the sunset. Both activities did not disappoint. There are 41 campsites along with picnic areas and 4 hiking trails of varying lengths and difficulty levels. The trails are: Lover's Leap Trail, Reservoir Trail, Spring Trail and the Quachita National Hiking Trail (National Recreation Trail). There is an old train engine to look at. I wonder how in the heck did they get that up there? There is a playground and small train tracks that appears to be for fun kiddie train rides in the summer months. Several lookout areas in the park. The Lover's Leap lookout area near the lodge has two viewing scopes (bring two quarters to use). Be careful, the one on the right has a stain near the eyepiece and you can't see out of it. Of course I only had two quarters and unfortunately put it into that viewer. This area is so beautiful with scenic views anywhere you look.

Wonderful place to spend a few days. We have stayed at the lodge and in our travel trailer here…read more Arkansas keeps their state parks is great shape and this goes for the lodge as well. The lodge rooms are large, clean and appear new. The restaurant has good consistent food and service.

Just finished a week stay at Degray Lake, and am beyond delighted that it was chosen for my first…read morevacation spot. From the moment you turn onto state park road, you can feel the calming and rejuvenating atmosphere. The views of the lake and surrounding areas were breathtaking, as well as all of the wildlife. Every member of the staff were extremely friendly and helpful, it felt as if I was at a good friends house for a week. I'd like to take the time to shout out the restaurant staff, in particular; Gina, Lauren, Shannon Rick and David. Every time we found ourselves in the restaurant we were welcomed with great energy and open smiles that could be felt and seen through the masks, regardless of time of day. It was as if we were regulars at our favorite spot. Would absolutely recommend for anybody trying to take some time to disconnect from daily life and get back in touch with the simpler sides of life.

Came here with some friends while we were out boating and had a great lunch! The food was not…read moreoverpriced by any means, and it was actually pretty good! My fiancé and I both got salads (one Cobb and one chef) and our friends got the gyro and the quesadilla. Neither of us had any complaints, it all came out relatively quickly, and tasted great. Our waitress was slammed (someone called in) but she was very attentive to our needs and brought us refills before we were even finished! Overall we were impressed and glad we decided to stop in instead of bringing sandwiches.

HIGHLY recommend! I went with my 10 yr old grandson. We stayed in the bunkhouse and it was perfect…read more If you need a no frills place to sleep, microwave and small frig it's perfect! (The other cabins looked great too. ) Owners are so sweet and helpful! We had planned to go into Hot Springs a few days, but the river was so pretty, fishing was great, swings were super cool, and kayaking was a blast so we never left the campground. Thanks Amanda, Casey, and Nolan!!! See you again sometime!Melissa Wright

5 stars. The river was perfect for a very nice float. We did 14 miles and it was absolutely…read morebeautiful. Very nice family owned resort. Very accommodating. Cabins, Tent camp or bring your RV. We went for only the day as it was an easy 1.5 Hour drive from Little Rock Ar.

Beautiful! Secluded! The water was so clean and the campsites were clean. Our family of 6 enjoyed…read moreit.

Beautiful park by a beautiful lake. Quiet, clean, green, and peaceful. This is a must visit if…read moreyou're seeking biggest bang for the buck while also considering natural beauty and cleanliness. Far away from Arkansas' limited urban areas. Camping is a must! Be aware - this is Arkansas with a subtropical humid climate and the most amount of bugs you'll encounter in your life. ... aggressive huge flies that chase you around the camp sight and they bite!!!! Wasps and bees. Spiders and ants. Ticks. Haha. If that's not your thing, bring the Rv and skip the tent.