Southern Arkansas

Travel Guide

Photo provided by Photo Courtesy Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism
Photo provided by Photo Courtesy Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism
Photo provided by Photo Courtesy Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism
Photo provided by Photo Courtesy Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism
Photo provided by Photo Courtesy Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism

The dense forests, beautiful lakes and mountain trails of Southwest Arkansas offer thrilling adventures as well as relaxing escapes in stunning scenery.

The southwest region of Arkansas has very few large cities, creating space instead for charming towns and uninterrupted stretches of nature in the alluring forests of the Timberlands Region. Since the late 1800s, people have been flocking here for the beauty of the landscape and much of its Victorian charm remains beautifully preserved. Come here to relax in old-world spa towns or to join miles of hiking trails in the Ouachita Mountains.

Roam around a 19th-century town in Historic Washington State Park to learn about the history of Southwest Arkansas. Museums here are dedicated to pioneers, printing, blacksmithing and famous figures such as Davy Crockett. The town of Hope also hosts the President Clinton First Home Museum, dedicated to the 42nd president.

Stride out into the dramatic wilderness of Ouachita National Forest, which crosses over the border into Oklahoma. Hike on trails such as Eagle Rock Loop and Little Missouri Trail to wander alongside creeks and up to hidden waterfalls. The Ouachita National Recreation Trail provides information points and stories along the range for over 220 miles (354 kilometers).

The crystal-clear waters of Lake Ouachita State Park are ideal for swimming and kayaking. While in the park, visit the thermal baths at Three Sisters Spring.

Soak up the mineral waters of Hot Springs National Park, outside the town of Hot Springs.Bathhouse Row, a street of 19th-century buildings, harks back to the town’s boom era and offers multiple spas for a day of pampering and relaxation.

Families will be constantly entertained in the Timberlands region. Dig for treasure in Crater of Diamonds State Park, where you can keep anything you find on the site. Ride the miniature train at Mountain Glory Station through Queen Wilhelmina State Park for a fun way to experience the landscape.

One of the best ways to explore the Timberlands region is by car. Drive around this part of the state on roads such as the Talimena Scenic Byway to take in panoramic views of the surrounding scenery. Come in fall to see the forested mountains come to life in an explosion of color.

Where to stay in Southern Arkansas

Texarkana showing heritage elements and interior views

Downtown Texarkana

If you're spending some time in Downtown Texarkana, Lindsey Railroad Museum and Ace of Clubs House are top sights worth seeing.

Downtown Texarkana
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Downtown Pine Bluff

While visiting Downtown Pine Bluff, you might make a stop by sights like Lake Pine Bluff and Pine Bluff /Jefferson County Historical Museum.

Downtown Pine Bluff
Wyndham Garden Texarkana

Wyndham Garden Texarkana

3 out of 5
5301 N State Line Ave, Texarkana, TX
The price is P3,496 per night from Aug 24 to Aug 25
P3,496
P3,950 total
Aug 24 - Aug 25
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Texarkana. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
5.6/10 (1,042 reviews)
"Price was right"

Reviewed on Aug 5, 2025

Wyndham Garden Texarkana
Baymont by Wyndham Texarkana

Baymont by Wyndham Texarkana

2.5 out of 5
5102 N State Line Ave, Texarkana, AR
The price is P2,818 per night from Sep 12 to Sep 13
P2,818
P3,247 total
Sep 12 - Sep 13
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Texarkana. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
7/10 Good! (1,004 reviews)
"All Good"

Reviewed on Aug 14, 2025

Baymont by Wyndham Texarkana
Best Western Plus Texarkana Inn & Suites

Best Western Plus Texarkana Inn & Suites

2.5 out of 5
5219 Cross Roads Pkwy, Texarkana, AR
The price is P4,969 per night from Sep 14 to Sep 15
P4,969
P5,727 total
Sep 14 - Sep 15
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this golf hotel in Texarkana. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in our ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,001 reviews)
Good
"Nice hotel, nice room but the couch was so uncomfortable"

Reviewed on Aug 14, 2025

Best Western Plus Texarkana Inn & Suites
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Turn On Inn

Turn On Inn

3 out of 5
3768 US 65 & 82, Lake Village, AR
Stay at this 3-star cabin in Lake Village. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and daily housekeeping. Popular attraction Stuart Island is located nearby.
9.2/10 Wonderful! (47 reviews)
"I thought the cabin was really nice. One thing that would have made it a bit better was if the iceaker was turned on before we arrived. The bedroom with the 4 beds, the outlets were not workingbut there were a lot of switches so maybe we didn't have the right ones on."

Reviewed on Aug 10, 2025

Turn On Inn
Red Leaf Cottages

Red Leaf Cottages

3 out of 5
4589 US-82, Lake Village, AR 71653, 09, Lake Village, AR
Stay at this 3-star cabin in Lake Village. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and daily housekeeping. Popular attraction Harlow's Casino Resort & Spa is located ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (7 reviews)
A small Slice of Heaven
"Are stay was very enjoyable. I did not give completely five stars because the furniture, sofas, in the cabin were not comfortable to sit in at all. And there was black mold on the patio floors out front. Would I Stay again? Absolutely I would! Thank you for allowing us to keep our service dog with ..."

Reviewed on May 10, 2025

Red Leaf Cottages
Upscale Texarkana Townhome, Walk to Downtown!

Upscale Texarkana Townhome, Walk to Downtown!

3.5 out of 5
Texarkana
Stay at this 3.5-star business-friendly apartment in Texarkana. Enjoy free parking and air conditioning. Popular attractions Perot Theater and Museum of Regional ...
8/10 Very Good! (1 review)
"Very nice upscale apartment. Awesome album selction to play thru the bluetooth. Owner was very responsive to minor issues. There were 13% in taxes that did not show up in “This is the price you pay” promo. The owner, Hotels.com and Evolve all said it would be addressed so hopefully that issue has ..."

Reviewed on May 29, 2025

Upscale Texarkana Townhome, Walk to Downtown!
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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