The Natural State’s Outdoor Offerings: Where To Visit in Arkansas
Deciding where tovisit in Arkansas offers many choices. You can learn where todig fordiamonds in Arkansas, and where to soak in the state's legendary hot springs. "The Natural State" is the official nickname of Arkansas. It refers to the natural beauty of the state's mountains, forests, lakes, and rivers.
Here at Block 2 Lofts, Little Rocks premier apartment community, we love to help residents discover outdoor adventures near Little Rock. We know the abundance of Arkansas landscapes and want to share those natural wonders with residents and visitors alike.
Crater of Diamonds State Park
This is the most famous park in the state, where visitors can dig for diamonds in the 37-acre field.Crater of Diamonds State Parkis the eroded surface of a volcanic crater. Visitors can keep any of the diamonds, gemstones, and minerals they unearth. White, brown, and yellow diamonds are found in the ground along with amethyst, garnet, jasper, agate, and quartz.You can bring your own tools or rent toolsinthe park. The park staff will help youidentifythe stones.
The Diamond Discovery Center offers details on the park's geology. More than 35,000 diamonds have been discovered sincethe areastate park opened in 1972. Notable diamonds found at the Crater include the 40.23-carat Uncle Sam, the largest diamond ever unearthed in the U.S.; the 16.37-carat Amarillo Starlight; the 15.33-carat Star of Arkansas; and the 8.52-carat Esperanza.
The park includes a campground, walking trails, picnic sites, and the seasonal Diamond Springs Water Park. The park is approximately 109 miles southwest of Little Rock.
Hot Springs, Arkansas
Arkansas is well-known for its hot spring resorts. Hot Springs National Park and Eureka Springs are the most popular areas where people come to soak in mineral spring resorts in Arkansas. Visitors can relax and enjoy the springs and learn about the history of the area.
Hot Spring National Park is located in the Ouachita Mountains, northwest of the town. The historic town features Bathhouse Row, where several old resorts dating back over 100 years have been restored. Many famous people visited the springs to enjoy the mineral water. The most notorious of all was Al Capone, who enjoyed the area during Prohibition in the 1920s. He reportedly purchased local moonshine hidden in underground tunnels and shipped it to Chicago. The Fordyce Bathhouse Visitor's Center offers the history of the area, including Capone's exploits.
Other bathhouses have been restored as art galleries and restaurants. The town of Hot Springs is approximately 55 miles southwest of Little Rock. It is a great place for a day trip, or you can also stay at hotels in the area or enjoy camping in the park.
Eureka Springs
This picturesque Victorian-era town is on the National Register of Historic Places. Located in the northwest section of the state, Eureka Springs is secluded and peaceful, with winding streets and historic homes built into the hillsides in the heart of the Ozarks. The town is surrounded by rivers and lakes, ideal for fishing, boating, camping, and hiking.
The town has been a major resort destination in the state since the 1800's due to the healing mineral waters. It is now a haven for artists with fairs, music festivals, and other cultural events held throughout the year. The romantic atmosphere of the town has made it a popular location for destination weddings. The town is also a comfortable place to stay while enjoying trout fishing on the White River and the Kings River. Nearby Beaver Lake offers numerous watersports. Visitors can also enjoy the hot springs at resort hotels.
This area, including parks in the Ozarks, is approximately 300 miles from Little Rock. It is a major vacation destination for people from several states in the region.
OZ Trail System
Mountain Bikers visiting the Ozarks can travel part of the Oz Trails System of Northwest Arkansas. The OZ Bike Park, scheduled to open in 2026, features 20 miles of gravity trails accessible by a chair lift from the Eureka Springs area. The unique bike trail system in Arkansas includes 550 miles of trails throughout the state for all levels of expertise.
The bike park is located at the intersection of Bentonville and Bela Vista. It will feature a bike shop, bike rentals, and restaurants.
Mississippi River State Park
Heading east about 100 miles from Little Rock is the Mississippi River State Park. The river serves as the eastern border of the state. The park is located in the St. Francis National Forest, where the Arkansas Delta meets Crowley's Ridge and the river. The All-American Great River Road and Crowley's Ridge Parkway run along this section of the river. Both are National Scenic Byways.
The park includes hiking trails, interpretive programs, biking, kayaking, and fishing. Boats, kayaks, and bicycles can be rented in the park.
Block 2 Loft Apartments
If you’re looking for your next home in Little Rock, visit us at Block 2 Lofts. Our 1 and 2 bedroom apartment lofts offer the perfect blend of comfort, spaciousness, and urban chic from design elements like exposed brick interiors, high ceilings, and vintage windows. Best of all, you’ll be close to all of Arkansas’ most impressive nature getaways.
Schedule your tour today and discover your next home in Little Rock at Block 2 Lofts.