Blog

Fall is just around the corner, which means fishing is going to get very exciting as the water cools down. While Arkansas is known for its world-class fishing all year round, there are several amazing fishing locations right near Springdale, Arkansas. If you find yourself getting skunked every time you go fishing, try one of these top spots and you'll never go home without an exciting catch ever again. Beaver Lake If you have a boat, Beaver Lake is a standout spot for trout fishing. Whether you're fly fishing or using spinning tackle, it's hard to beat the scenery and opportunity at Beaver Lake. The lake used to be excellent for more warm water species thanks to its many coves and crannies which warm water fish love. However, as the water temperatures declined, cold water fish such as trout were introduced. They soon flourished and Beaver Lake became a must-fish trout lake. Plus, you can still catch great bass despite the addition of trout which isn't always the case. If you're looking to make a weekend out of it, you can stay at Beaver Lakefront Cabins, which offers lodging and guided fishing tours targeting bass or trout. It's a surefire way to develop lasting memories and amazing fishing photos. Below Beaver Dam on the White River There are several dams throughout the state of Arkansas. Fishing below the dam at many of these locations is sure to be a winning fishing experience. Along the White River you'll find Beaver Dam, and below it is some great trout fishing that's not only easily accessible but also close to nature and serene, a combination you don't find too often. There's a good chance you won't have the place to yourself, but there's plenty of room for anyone angling there. War Eagle Mill Just forty minutes away is War Eagle Mill, a fishing hole that's as exciting as it is beautiful. You can fish right at War Eagle Creek which is complete with a bridge and gentle waterfall. Similar to the situation at Beaver Dam, you're probably going to run into a few other friendly anglers but there's plenty of fish to go around. Even if you don't have a great day of catching, the waterfall and country-esque scenery will bring you plenty of peace and happiness. Lake Atlanta If you're just trying to catch something, Lake Atlanta is a great choice because of its diversity in species. The lake was undergoing some construction in the last few years, giving the fish in the lake plenty of time to spawn and grow in numbers without any fishing activity. Now, Lake Atlanta is a great place to fish for everything from trout and bass to bluegill and catfish. Arkansas is home to some of the best fishing in the country. Regardless of your age or skill level, those near Springdale Arkansas should take the time to try some of the fishing holes above. Remember, no matter where you fish, you'll need to have the right fishing license and to follow regulations on limits. Happy angling everyone! Image via Flickr by Clinton Steeds

You'll never run out of things to do during a visit to Arkansas Ozark Mountain Region. With beautiful views, rivers, waterfalls, and mountains for hiking and biking, you can explore for days. The Arkansas Ozarks are the perfect destination for a quick weekend away or an extended vacation for the whole family. Here are some ways to enjoy the Ozarks this fall. 1. Take a Waterfall Tour The Ozark Mountains have several waterfalls with rushing water in the winter and spring, but they are still worth the trip in the fall when the water slows down. Twin Falls is one of the most beautiful and picture-worthy falls in Arkansas. The hike to reach them is fairly difficult, but it is well worth it. Falling Water Falls is another waterfall offering beautiful views, and the hike to get there is less challenging. Eden Falls in Lost Valley is a 35-foot underground waterfall, and Hemmed-In-Hollow is the tallest in the state. This is also a 220-foot waterfall on the Buffalo National River that you can only reach by hiking or by canoe. 2. Fishing The Ozarks offer world-class fishing all year round. You can head to one of the streams and fish for trout on your own, or hire a guide to show you where to find the best fishing holes. The White and North Fork Rivers have an abundance of trout so catching your limit is usually easy. If you prefer deep-water fishing, Bull Shoals Lake and Lake Norfolk offer fishing expeditions for all levels of anglers. You can find smallmouth bass on Crooked Creek and in the Buffalo National River, along with Channel catfish, long ear sunfish, and spotted bass 3. Hiking Whether you want to take a leisurely nature walk or challenge your wilderness skills, you can find your next adventure in the Ozarks. There are over 1,000 miles of hiking trails where you can head out on your own using a trail map, or you can take a guided eco-tour to learn more about what you see along the way. You can also plan a backpacking trip in the mountains. The fall is one of the best times of the year for hiking in this region with the fall foliage offering stunning views that burst with color. 4. Mountain Biking Bring your bike to the Ozarks and check out the riding trails. You can try the IMBA Epic Upper Buffalo Headwaters Trail, or take a road biking tour. The road bike routes range from difficult to very difficult and offer scenic attractions along the way. Mountain bikers can start with The Ozark Mountain Bicycle Trail that runs for 40 miles through the Buffalo National River area or try the Syllamo trails. The Syllamo trails are single-track trails that are some of the most technically challenging in the area. There are five different loops on this trail including the White River Bluff Loop designed for advanced riders. There are just a few of the activities available in the Ozarks. You can also camp, climb, paddle down the rivers, and much more. Image via Flickr by markturnerimages

Ozark National Park, located mostly in the Ozark mountains of northern Arkansas, covers about 1.2 million acres of gorgeous natural space. There are many exciting things you can do during your visit to the park. Here's an overview of some of the most popular activities. 1. Enjoy the Waterfalls If you enjoy gazing at the wonders of nature, then take full advantage of the fantastic waterfalls that exist throughout Ozark National Park. Some of them are located quite close to the main entrance, and others are mysteriously hidden deep within the forest. This makes for an outstanding trip through the park whether you're with children or hiking solo. There are so many waterfalls that it's difficult to count them all! 2. Ride Horseback If you're up for a true adventure, then don't miss out on the opportunity to go horseback riding in Ozark National Park. Take a horse out along the tails and dirt roads. Although horseback riding isn't permitted on all trails throughout the park, many of the trails afford you this unique sightseeing perspective. 3. Learn the History Treat yourself and your loved ones to an opportunity to learn about the history of the region. There are many reserved areas and exhibits that let you find out about the indigenous cultures and original settlers, events of the Civil War, schools and churches of past generations, and even the Viking era and the activities of the Spanish. You'll also learn about natural occurrences in the region, like earthquakes. 4. Camp Out You can also have a fun social experience at Ozark National Park thanks to the wonderful camping opportunities available there. Campsites are scattered throughout the entire park. You can choose from traditional campsites, RV parks if you're coming by trailer, and cabins and cottages. If you'd like to splurge, there are a variety of motels, hotels, and bed and breakfast venues available. 5. Explore Magnificent Caves If you'd like to kick your nature craving up a notch, then look no further than the fabulous caves that are spread out across the region. The special geological formations found in this region birthed thousands of caves: 6,000 have been documented thus far in Missouri, and many of these are available by tour within Ozark National Park. Some caves have "rooms" as high as 300 feet, and some can be seen by car via drive-through tours. 6. Cool Off in Wonderful Water When you need to refresh from the heat of your outdoor adventure, you'll be glad to know you have many watery areas to explore. There are plenty of lakes and rivers around, which let you engage in fun activities like fishing, floating, boating, canoeing, kayaking, and swimming! If you're feeling more adventurous, you can go water skiing and scuba diving, too. Ozark National Park is a gigantic national park that offers everything you're searching for in a natural expedition. Check out the park's website for more information and for ideas on your upcoming adventure. Image via Flickr by Ken Lund

When you're in Springdale, Arkansas, there are a variety of different parks to visit. Whether you're looking to play sports with a group or just want to have a scenic picnic, here are three parks to check out while you're in Springdale. 1. Bayyari Park Bayyari Park is a great park for people of all ages to visit. There are picnic tables so you can meet friends or family for lunch on a sunny day. Three of them are covered so you don't have to cancel your plans in case it rains. There is also a playground for kids to get their energy out that has a wood chip fall zone for children that are five to 12 years old. There is also a separate swing set, so there is plenty of room to spread out. Restrooms are also available at the park. A pavilion is available to rent for $12.50 an hour and has a minimum of two hours. This area can fit a maximum of 80 people, so it's a great place to throw a birthday party or other event. This is available to rent when you stop by the Springdale Recreation Center. 2. C.L. "Charlie" and Willie George Park When you're looking for a park to play sports in, check out C.L. "Charlie" and Willie George Park. There are plenty of sports fields here, including a lighted football field, lighted tennis courts, six soccer fields, and four artificial turf baseball fields that have concessions. This is a dog-friendly place as well, as a dog park is available for well-behaved pups to play in. There are also hiking trails to go on. Kids will love the Splash Pad which is open every day from 9 a.m. until it gets dark, and is open from May 18 - September 15. Two lighted pavilions are available to rent for $12.50 an hour, and one has a capacity of 80 people while the other has a capacity of 100. Inflatables are not allowed in the park. 3. Tyson Park Tyson Park is also known as Randal Tyson Recreational Complex and has a variety of amenities. This includes a sand volleyball court, Miracle League fields for those with disabilities, three softball fields for adults, three Babe Ruth baseball fields, four youth Little League baseball fields, and five soccer fields. All the baseball and soccer fields have concession stands so you'll be able to purchase snacks and beverages. There is no shortage of fields to go on whether you want to play a sports game or just be a bystander for one. There are also six lighted tennis courts, four basketball goals, and three horseshoe pits. Children will also enjoy playing on the three play structures. There is something for people of all ages to do at this park. These parks are great options when you're looking for somewhere to spend the day outside. From finding a pavilion to rent out to taking a hike, you have several parks to choose from in Springdale. Image via Flickr by MyKerttu

The expansive Ozark National Forest covers a large swathe of northwestern Arkansas. It offers many attractions such as scenic valleys, mountains, springs, pristine streams, and supports a diverse array of flora and fauna. If you are an outdoor enthusiast, the forest offers a wide range of outdoor activities including breathtaking hikes, camping, fishing, hunting, and general outdoor exploration. In this piece, we look at top activities that will make your time exploring the Ozark National Forest well spent. Camping Camping is one of the best ways to see the Ozark National Forest. Whether you want to fish, hike, or soak in the mesmerizing scenery, the forest offers multiple camping locations to unleash your spirit of adventure.  But most campgrounds offer limited modern comfort to preserve the natural ambience of the forest. If you plan to hike the Ozark Highlands Trail in the Ozark National Forest, you will find several campgrounds near the trail to camp and rest. Popular campgrounds include the Bayou Bluff Cove Lake campground, Long Pool campground, and Brock Creek campground among others. Hiking The Ozark National Forest is home to several iconic trails. Whether for hiking some of the most stunning landscapes in the country, or as a lover of nature's beauties, this is a hiker's paradise. Favorite trails include the Alum Cove Natural Bridge Trail, Butterfly Loop Trail, Huckleberry Mountain Trail System, and the Mill Creek and more. From ancient springs to secret caves, waterfalls and lush vegetation, you can have loads of fun on this side of Arkansas, and it's only 30 minutes from town. Mountain biking and horseback riding have become popular in the forest. If you love the high-energy equestrian sport or the adrenaline-pumping travails of rugged biking, there is no limit to your exploits in the over 1 million-acre Ozark National Forest. Wilderness Exploration The Ozark National Forest has five wilderness areas that offer plenty opportunities for solitude, exploration, sightseeing, and more. Abundant wildlife, caves, streams, iconic landforms, and spectacular views make these wilderness areas favorite spots for many visitors. When you want to unwind and disconnect from the hectic city life, you will find peace in East Fork Wilderness or Richland Creek Wilderness. Swimming The Ozark National Forest with its clear streams and beautiful rivers offers several beautiful swimming holes where you can cool down after long hikes. If you have an adventurous spirit, you can discover a secret swimming hole to swim, have fun, and soak in the bounties of the forest in private. Most campgrounds have swimming holes nearby, so maybe one is a few meters away from your camp! Waterfalls Arkansas is a land of waterfalls, and the Ozark National Forest is swarming with these natural wonders. People who visit the forest during the rainy season can testify to the large number of heavenly waterfalls and cascades beautifying the Arkansas Ozarks. The experience is like living in a fable, but you are there live, catching your breath as millions of gallons thunder down the face of rocks into the many rivers and creeks crisscrossing the forest. The Ozark National Forest is a treasure trove that reveals timeless gems for those who dare to explore its depths. A visit to the forest in spring is a life-changing experience. Image via Flick by Mabecerra

Hiking is a fantastic outdoor activity any time of year. Even in the winter months, you can bundle up and make the most of the fresh, cool winter air. There are plenty of places to go for a hike in and around the Springdale area. With trails designed for the beginner hiker and some for the more adventurous, you're sure to find something that fits your ability. Here are some of the best places to hike near Springdale, AR. Lake Lafayette Trail The Lake Lafayette Trail is a 5.5-mile loop that leads to other trails if you want to extend your hike. This is a highly trafficked trail and well maintained with some paved areas, too. There are some beautiful wooded areas and an open preservation area along the way, and you'll also get to enjoy views of the lake. A wide variety of flora and fauna will greet you along the trail, and there are even benches if you need to rest. Prairie Grove Battlefield Prairie Grove Battlefield is one of America's most intact Civil War battlefields, and the state park offers an excellent place for hiking and walking. There's a 1-mile Battlefield Trail to follow where you can see the places where the battle took place, or you can go along the 5-mile driving tour to see the historic structures in the Ozark village. Butterfield Hiking Trail The Butterfield Hiking Trail is a challenging hike for more experienced hikers. It's a rocky trail with some scrambling necessary. It got its name from the Butterfield Stagecoach and is one of the few looped backpacking trails in Arkansas. It starts in the Devil's Den State Park right near the pavilion and crosses highway 74 before passing near Mount Olive. There are several scenic views along the way, including Vista Point and Blackburn Creek. Keep in mind that you need to get a free permit from the park office before starting on this hike. Shaddox Hollow Nature Trail The Shaddox Hollow Nature Trail in Rogers is just a few miles outside of Springdale and offers a simple hike perfect for beginners. You can see a lot of the river as you walk along the trail, which runs for about a mile and a half. This is a loop trail, so you can just keep following back to where you started. Also, it's not too strenuous. This makes it a good hike for the whole family. Withrow Springs State Park Head to nearby Withrow Springs State Park in the Ozark Mountains for several hiking opportunities. There are trails for all levels, including the easy Dogwood Nature Trail and the War Eagle Trail, which is just a two-mile loop trail that runs along the river. The Forest Trails is a little more difficult but only runs for about a mile. Try any of these gorgeous places near Springdale for hiking. There are trails for all levels, whether you're just starting out or have some hiking experience already. Image via Flickr by ubelkatze

Nothing is more refreshing than spending the day outside. Whether you're hitting the trails on an inspiring hiking adventure or simply walking through an outdoor museum or public garden, spending time outside is about more than getting some vitamin D. It can be a great way to clear your mind and refresh your spirits. Here are some of the top outdoor activities near Springdale. 1. Walk Through the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks The Botanical Garden of the Ozarks is an excellent way to spend a few hours looking at some amazing plant species in several unique areas. In addition to the picturesque garden, the organization also hosts learning centers for children and special events. The main garden, which circles around a great lawn, is split up into distinct sections including a rock garden, Japanese garden, vegetable and herb garden, and many more. There is also a butterfly garden and pavilion full of flower species that butterflies love. Be sure to check out one of their butterfly days or firefly flings for more outdoor fun. 2. Spend the Day at Lake Fayetteville Visiting Lake Fayetteville lets you spend some quality time outdoors with views of the pristine waters. There is, without a doubt, something to do for everyone at the lake. The lake area itself spans over 450 land acres and 194 acres of water and was constructed shortly after World War II. There are numerous activities to choose from at the lake. Those with boating and fishing licenses can bring their gear to catch a new personal best or enjoy a day out on the water. The lake also has boat rentals for small fishing boats, pontoon boats, kayaks, and canoes. It's not all about the water though. The area surrounding the lake offers its own opportunity for outdoor excitement. Take your bikes to ride around the path or enjoy a nice walk. Bike rentals are also available at the lake. The combination of unique foliage, human structures, and water make this area a good place to take some landscape photography. 3. Discover Pea Ridge National Military Park For the perfect mix of outdoor fun with a historical note, head over to the Discover Pea Ridge National Military Park. This Civil War battlefield is one of the most intact battlefields from the entire war. In addition to the incredible 4,300-acre battlefield where the Union soldiers won Missouri, there is an educational museum portion of the park. Have you ever wondered what sides your ancestors may have fought on? You can access the park's database of over a million soldiers and sailors who fought for both the Union and the Confederacy. You can also learn about the key figures who fought in the battle of Pea Ridge. There are limitless ways to get outdoors and enjoy Springdale, Arkansas. Whether you're looking to see some beautiful nature, learn about different natural life, or discover the nation's history, head over to Springdale and spend some time outdoors. Image via Flickr by Michel_Rathwell

Arkansas is home to lots of wildlife, from protected species at refuges to animals roaming wild in the state's many national forests and parks. These are a few attractions and wildlife reserves where families can get up close and personal with animals in Northwest Arkansas. Logan Cave Logan Cave is a National Wildlife Refuge that's northwest past Fayetteville, just minutes from the Kansas border. Since this is a cave formation, it also offers a look at some unique nocturnal creatures that are hard to find in other parts of the state. A few of the most noteworthy species include: Gray bat: This endangered species of bat can be seen flying and hanging upside down in the caves. Ozark fish: This is a threatened species that grows no bigger than two inches. Look for them swimming in the water inside the caves — they have unpigmented skin (appearing white or pink) and have no eyes. Benton Cave Crayfish: This is a rare species of crayfish that's native to Arkansas. Logan Cave is one of only four known locations where you can see this critically endangered species. Logan Cave National Wildlife Refuge is in Siloam Springs, Arkansas, roughly two miles north of Highway 412. The refuge spans 123 acres. Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge There are a few locations in Arkansas where animals that aren't native to the area are cared for. One of the most notable examples is Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge. This spot is dedicated to rescuing exotic cats from around the nation, which means several gorgeous tigers and other species are protected here. Tickets cost $20 for adults, $15 for teens, and $10 for seniors, veterans, and kids. You can buy tickets online, but note that the refuge does close when there's inclement weather. So, confirm that you can visit before making your purchase. Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge is at 239 Turpentine Creek Lane in Eureka Springs. It's summer hours are from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and its winter hours are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Ouachita National Forest The huge Ouachita National Forest is a fantastic place to go if you want to view Arkansas' native species in the land, air, and water. Fishing and birding, especially around Lake Ouachita and the other bodies of water in this area, are popular here for a reason. This is an enormous space spanning 1.8 million acres, so there's plenty of space to reserve a camping spot and turn your trip into a weekend family excursion. Among the many species of wildlife in the forest, you may see: Woodpecker Bald eagles Louisiana black bear Ozark National Forest On the north side of Interstate 40 lies another huge outdoor space — Ozark National Forest. This area covers 1.2 million acres and also has spots for camping, hiking, fishing, and birding. Watch for animals, such as chipmunks, elk, bobcats, eagles, and black bears. Northwest Arkansas is full of places where you can see wildlife and protected animals up close and personal. Pack your car for a day of family fun and environmental education at a few of these locations throughout the state. Photo by jmeissen | Licensed under cc BY-SA 2.0

Teenagers are not easy to please, and whether you want to spend time as a family or they are just looking for something to do with friends, finding appropriate and engaging activities can be a challenge. Fortunately, the Springdale, Arkansas, area has several attractions that teens enjoy. Arvest Ballpark Who doesn't love going to a baseball game? Arvest Ballpark is home to the Northwest Arkansas Naturals Baseball team, the Double-A affiliate to the Kansas City Royals. The park is a family-friendly place with plenty for everyone to do. All the seats offer a great view of the game, with suites to rent if you want to go with a big group. The food is excellent, and there is always some kind of entertainment to enjoy between innings. There is even some audience participation if your teen dares to get out on the field. Ozark Climbing Gym Bring your teens to the Ozark Climbing Gym for some fun. This is a bouldering gym, with climbing walls that don't need any ropes or safety harnesses. All the floors have padding, so there is a soft place to land if they fall, and there are all different levels of climbing so everyone can join in the fun. If the kids have never climbed before, there is a thorough orientation to make sure they know what to do. Make sure everyone wears comfortable clothes, and you'll also have to sign a waiver before getting started. Lake Fayetteville Bring the kids to Lake Fayetteville for a fun day out on the water. This lake has a boat dock and marina so you can either launch your own boat or rent one for the day. Keep in mind that it is a no wake lake so you can only go at idle speed, but is a great lake for fishing, or just a relaxing cruise on the water. You can also rent kayaks, canoes, or pedal boats if you want to power your own way around the lake. Locomotion Family Fun Park Just ten minutes outside of Springdale in Fayetteville, Locomotion Family Fun Park has fun activities for teens and for the younger ones. The kids can ride the bumper boats and try to stay dry as they get their friends wet, or they can head to the Spin Zone and ride the spinning bumper cars. This interactive attraction is both fun and a challenge as you try to hit each the targets on your opponents bumper car as you ride around, while flashing neon lights add to the whole experience. There is also laser tag and an arcade for everyone to enjoy. If you want to stay outside, there are Go-Karts and four different tracks for riders of all ages. If your teen has a driver's license they can even try the pro track. There are plenty of attractions in the Springdale area to keep teens busy. They are sure to have some fun, and you might even get the whole family to spend the day together. Photo by jc.winkler | Licensed under cc BY 2.0

There is a common phrase that says "the joy is in the journey." That couldn't be more true for Northwest Arkansas. Here are three beautiful scenic mountain roads that you and your family will enjoy your next road trip in Northwest Arkansas. The Ozarks The Ozarks drive makes a counterclockwise loop from Eureka Springs to the Buffalo River. It goes through Jasper, then east to Mountain View, where it winds back to where you began. It is full of beautiful landscape, especially in the fall when the colors are changing. There are also many amazing sights to stop and see along the way. Stop in Eureka Springs, a fun resort town whose unofficial motto is "where misfits fit." If you are there between May and October, you can enjoy the Great Passion Play. It takes place at the location of the 67-foot-tall Christ of the Ozarks statue. South of Eureka Springs, if you turn off Highway 23 at Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge, you can see lions, tigers, leopards, and cougars all roaming their spacious outdoor habitat. The refuge's mission is to provide lifetime refuge for abandoned, neglected and abused big cats. Don't miss out on Blanchard Springs Caverns near the end of your journey. You will want to follow Route 9 north out of Mountain View, then stay left onto Route 14. Blanchard Springs Caverns are located in the Ozark National Forest. The U.S. Forest Service can take you on science-based tours of the three caverns, each one varying in length. The Dripstone Trail is the shortest, and some say prettiest. Then is the Discovery Trail, and last is the Wild Cave Tour, where you will go through undeveloped sections and get a bit down and dirty. Boston Mountains Scenic Route Two unique and beautiful, roads, U.S. Highway 71 and Interstate 49 cross across the highest point of the Ozark Mountains and combine to make the Boston Mountains Scenic Route. U.S. 71 follows a former stagecoach route, while I-49 will take you across high-span bridges and the state's only highway tunnel. If you are looking for good hiking spots along the way, you will want to take U.S. 71. This route spans 42 miles, while the I-49 route spans 38 miles. Both of these roads run between Alma and Fayetteville in Northwest Arkansas. Scenic 7 Some say this is the most scenic drive in the state of Arkansas. Scenic 7 runs south to north through the state, spanning 290 miles, with many diverse landscapes and interesting stops along the way. If you begin on the south end, you will start near El Dorado in the West Gulf Coastal Plain. Near Arkadelphia, you will enter the Ouachita Mountains, which are famous for their quartz crystals, as well as Hot Springs National Park. Continue through the Ouachita Mountains, past Lake Nimrod, and into the Arkansas River Valley. From there you will enter the Ozark Mountains, pass through the mountain town of Jasper, and end in Harrison. Whether you are on your way out of town, or you like to explore out-of-the-way places, consider taking one of these scenic roads as part of your next journey. Photo by miketnorton | Licensed under cc BY 2.0

One of the best parts of summer is being able to get outdoors and enjoy nature. If you love hiking and are looking for a good nature trail in Northwest Arkansas, here are four fantastic spots to get you started. Ozark Highland Trail This is one of the best hiking trails in Arkansas and has been rated as one of the top 10 trails in the United States. One of the things that makes it great is that works for both the beginning and the experienced hiker. This trail spans 165 miles, plus an additional 27 miles of connecting spurs and loops. Because the trail passes through 17 campgrounds and trailheads, as well as crosses over 50 forest roads and highways, you can easily go for a short day hike or a fabulous backpacking trip. The versatility is great, but that's not what attracts so many people to this trail. When hiking, you will discover deep pools you can swim in, bluffs, forests, and hundreds of waterfalls. Feel free to bring your dog along for the adventure; your canine friends are allowed on the Ozark Highland Trail. It is located in the Ozark National Forest. Lake Weddington Trail If you are looking for an overnight hiking trip, the Lake Weddington Trail is a popular one. It is a moderate to difficult trail that spans 15.4 miles, and camping is allowed along the trail. It is located in the heart of the Ozarks and ends at the Illinois River. Along the way, you will pass Twin Knobs, an interesting and unique rock formation. When you return, you will need to retrace your steps and head back the way you came in. This trail is also located in the Ozark National Forest. Shores Lake/White Rock Loop Located Northeast of Ft. Smith, Shores Lake and White Rock are popular recreation areas in the Ozark National Forest. This moderate trail spans 13.4 miles and starts at Shores Lake. You will hike past some beautiful waterfalls and up to White Rock Mountain. This loop trail brings you back down to the lake through the Salt Fork drainage. Camping and dogs are allowed on this trail, but you may want to splurge on a cabin at White Rock for a nice weekend getaway. Pedestal Rocks/Kings Bluff Loops If you are looking for an easy hike, visit the Pedestal Rocks/Kings Bluff Loops. There are actually two loops here, both located in the Pedestal Rocks Scenic Area, and they span 4.3 miles combined. Both of these loops will take you to beautiful sandstone bluff formations. You will also be rewarded with a waterfall at Kings Bluff. Pedestal Rocks Scenic Area is located near Ben Hur, just off Hwy. 16 in the Ozark National Forest. Camping is not allowed on these trails, but dogs are. These are just a few of the amazing nature and hiking trails that you can explore in Northwest Arkansas. No matter what level of difficulty you are looking for, there is a trail with amazing views for you to enjoy. Photo by OakleyOriginals | Licensed under cc BY 2.0

BeSummer is the time when everyone wants to pack up their bags and head to beautiful places to experience the beauty of nature. Spending time at a nature reserve has many effects on your family's health, too. Thankfully, there are many nature reserves that are known for beautiful scenery and wildlife right within the confines of Northwest Arkansas. The following are three of the best nature reserves that you must consider visiting this summer. Wild Wilderness Drive-Through Safari This drive-through safari park in Northwest Arkansas is one of your best bets for seeing wildlife in the area. You'll be able to see a variety of animals from the safety of your vehicle. The entrance fee is also reasonable: $15 for adults and $10 for kids. This is a great place to introduce young kids to wildlife. They won't need to walk long distances, and the park is designed to appeal to all ages. Buffalo National River Buffalo National River was established in 1972. It is one of the few undammed rivers in the United States. The river flows freely for 135 miles. It is the perfect place to spend your summer if you love water surrounded by beautiful mountains. The river offers both rapids and quiet pools. As you go down to the White River, you pass through the Ozark Mountains. There are many activities that you can do here with the family. For instance, you can float through the various stretches of the river on a raft or canoe, and there are several hiking trails. The park has plenty of different campgrounds to try out. Buffalo National River is a great place to spend a few nights if you like to watch the stars. There is very little light pollution, which makes for lots of opportunities to view the night sky. There are certain spots in the park where you can have fun with your pets, too. And of course, with such an expansive park comes massive opportunities to view birds and other wildlife. Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge This is the perfect place to visit this summer if you love big cats. Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge rescues exotic cats all over the US and provides them the safety and care they need. The goal of the park is to provide a lifetime refuge to rescued animals. TCWR works with universities, law enforcement, and other individuals and organizations to promote the well-being of different animals, especially big cats. The reserve is open to the public, and it is one of the largest facilities of its kind in the US. Big cats at TCWR have been rescued from Tennessee, Montana, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Kansas, New York, Oklahoma, Texas, Missouri, Colorado, and Arkansas. They are placed in a nurturing and caring environment here, ensuring their well-being and safety. All of these places are great family-friendly nature reserves that you can visit this summer in Arkansas. Load up the car, grab some snacks, and make your way to one of these destinations this weekend. Photo by PS-OV-ART Patty Sue O'Hair-Vicknair, Artist | Licensed under cc BY 2.0