Arkansas State Parks invites everyone to celebrate Memorial Day Weekend with a host of exciting events across our beautiful state parks. From canoe floats to lively music festivals, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
NWA & North Central
Prairie Grove Battlefield Memorial Wall Walk – Saturday, May 25
This Memorial Day Weekend, join us as we remember those who helped establish this park and the history built into our Memorial Wall. This will be a 1-mile walk around the Memorial Wall. Meet at Hindman Hall. See times HERE.
Ozark Folk Center Memorial Day Weekend Hootenanny – May 24 & 25
Enjoy two nights of old-time mountain music and dance at the Ozark Folk Center. The Homecoming Hootenanny will feature performances by lively Ozark string bands and Mountain View’s favorite pickers and folksingers. The festivities conclude on Saturday, May 25, with GRAMMY award-winning country singer and bluegrass artist Shawn Camp, along with two-time National Fiddle Champion Tim Crouch. More Information HERE.
Prairie Grove Battlefield Memorial Day Remembrance – Monday, May 27
Honoring military service men and women who are no longer with us dates back to the end of the Civil War. Memorial Day traditions have changed over time, but we will never forget those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. Join us as we take time to remember those throughout our nation’s history. Meet at the Battle Monument. Click HERE for more.
Mount Magazine Mountain Songs – Sunday, May 26
Join a park interpreter and enjoy one of the most beautiful views in Arkansas, as well as a few original guitar songs that highlight some of the wonderful natural and cultural resources of Magazine State Park. This program will relocate to the Lodge in the event of bad weather. Information HERE.
Central
Pinnacle Mountain Canoe Float – Saturday, May 25 – Admission $50
Explore the tranquil beauty of the Little Maumelle River with a guided canoe float. Paddle through bald cypress groves and along riverbanks teeming with wildlife. This leisurely float offers a unique opportunity to experience the diverse habitats of Pinnacle Mountain State Park. More information HERE.
Woolly Hollow: Nature Journaling – Saturday, May 25
Journals are a great way to preserve memories of your trip to Woolly Hollow State Park. Join the park interpreter to make your own journal, pick up journaling tips and creative ideas. All materials are provided. Check it out HERE.
Pinnacle Mountain: Memorial Day Sunrise Hike – Monday, May 27
Scale Pinnacle Mountain with a park interpreter and prepare for a breathtaking 360⁰ view of the Arkansas River Valley as the sun rises. Find out more HERE.
Southwest
DeGray Lake Resort: Kayak Lake Tour – Monday, May 27 Admission- Adult: $18.00
Admission- Children ages 6-12: $12.00
No previous paddling experience is necessary. Hands down, one of the best ways to enjoy the lake is from inside a kayak, paddling along the shoreline, exploring quiet coves. Reservations are required and are taken at the marina beginning noon the day before. More information HERE.
Lake Ouachita Sunset Cruise – Saturday, May 25 – Admission: Adults: $14.00, Kids ages 6-12: $8.00, Under 6: Free
Enjoy a leisurely boat ride with a park interpreter as you explore the wildlife, history, geology, and experience one of Lake Ouachita State Park’s famous sunsets. Seating is limited; registration is required in advance. You can make reservations and pay at the visitor center or marina before 5 p.m. More information HERE.
Cossatot River State Park Great American Cleanup – Saturday, May 25
The Keep America Beautiful® Great American Cleanup is the nation’s largest community improvement program taking place annually in thousands of communities nationwide. Volunteer with park interpreters at the sandbar access area to remove litter and debris from this high-use area of the park. All supplies provided. More Information HERE.
Northeast & Southeast
Village Creek Trail of Tears Guided Hike Saturday, May 25
Join us as we learn about the history of the Old Military Road Trail and the Trail of Tears. This program will last an hour and will consist of hiking 1.5-miles. Please bring water and wear comfortable hiking shoes. This is a free family-friendly event that requires no registration. If there is inclement weather during the time of this guided hike, an alternative program about the Trail of Tears will be located inside the visitor center theater room. More Information HERE.
Crowley’s Ridge Owl Prowl Saturday, May 25
Join a park interpreter to discover the adaptations that help owls hunt under the blanket of night and then search for this nocturnal raptor. Wear good walking shoes. More Information HERE.
Cane Creek Start a Spark: DIY Firestarter Sunday, May 26
Put a spark into your campfire! Make a DIY fire starter from materials around your house and learn the basics of fire building. Materials will be provided. No registration required. More Information HERE.
Arkansas State Parks
Arkansas State Parks is a division of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism. Arkansas state parks and museums cover 55,006 acres of forest, wetlands, fish and wildlife habitat, outdoor recreation facilities, and unique historic and cultural resources. Established in 1923, Arkansas State Parks preserve special places for future generations, provide quality recreation and education opportunities, enhance the state’s economy through tourism and provide leadership in resource conservation. Connect with ASP on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, and visit ArkansasStateParks.com and ArkansasStateParks.com/media to learn more.
Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism
The Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism protects and promotes our state’s natural, cultural and historic assets, contributing to a thriving economy and high quality of life. It is made up of three divisions: Arkansas State Parks, Arkansas Heritage and Arkansas Tourism.
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