Southern Arkansas, AR

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

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 ¥9,169 per night from Sep 5 to Sep 6
¥9,169
¥10,361 total
Sep 5 - Sep 6
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 (1,049 reviews)
Front desk
"The lady that checked me in was very helpful."

Reviewed on Aug 25, 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 ¥7,579 per night from Sep 25 to Sep 26
¥7,579
¥8,735 total
Sep 25 - Sep 26
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! (1,003 reviews)
"It is a good spot to stop for one night. The staff are wonderful people."

Reviewed on Aug 22, 2025

Baymont by Wyndham Texarkana
Holiday Inn Express Monticello by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Monticello by IHG

2.5 out of 5
146 Dearman Dr, Monticello, AR
The price is ¥14,330 per night from Sep 7 to Sep 8
¥14,330
¥16,443 total
Sep 7 - Sep 8
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Monticello. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (422 reviews)
"Staff was excellent!"

Reviewed on Aug 19, 2025

Holiday Inn Express Monticello by IHG
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.
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
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! (48 reviews)
"It was such a cute get away. I definitely will be booking again."

Reviewed on Aug 17, 2025

Turn On Inn
Great Location close to everything

Great Location close to everything

Texarkana
Stay at this vacation home in Texarkana. Enjoy laundry facilities, a pool table, and patios. Popular attractions Texarkana Golf Ranch and Spring Lake Park are ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (28 reviews)
"Just everything about it was awesome!we will be back!!! 100 times and thanks for having us."

Reviewed on Aug 4, 2025

Great Location close to everything
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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Cities near Southern Arkansas