Petit Jean state park ar

Perched majestically atop Petit Jean Mountain, Petit Jean State Park holds a special place in the hearts of Arkansans as our state's very first state park and a timeless natural wonder. More than just a campground, this iconic destination offers a captivating blend of breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and an impressive array of activities that cater to every outdoor enthusiast. From its dramatic bluffs and cascading waterfalls to its ancient geological formations and historic Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) architecture, Petit Jean State Park truly embodies the spirit and beauty of the "Natural State."

Visitors consistently rave about the park's stunning scenery, often describing it as "beautiful," "stunning," and "amazing." It’s a place where the grandeur of nature meets thoughtful amenities, providing a comfortable yet adventurous experience. Whether you're a seasoned hiker eager to explore challenging trails, a family looking for a serene lake experience, or simply someone seeking a peaceful retreat with incredible views, Petit Jean delivers. The park's commitment to maintenance is evident, with many praising its "well-maintained facilities" and "clean bathhouses." This dedication ensures that every visit is not just an outdoor adventure, but a truly pleasant and memorable one, solidifying Petit Jean State Park's reputation as a top-tier destination for locals throughout Arkansas.

Petit Jean State Park is prominently located at 1285 Petit Jean Mountain Rd, Morrilton, AR 72110, USA. This address places it squarely on the flat top of Petit Jean Mountain, offering unparalleled views of the Arkansas River Valley and the surrounding landscape. While the park is nestled in a natural, elevated setting, its accessibility from various parts of Arkansas is surprisingly convenient. Morrilton, a nearby town, serves as a gateway to the park, and major state highways provide straightforward routes for visitors.

For Arkansans residing in metropolitan areas such as Little Rock or Conway, Petit Jean State Park is an easy and scenic drive, typically less than an hour away. Even from more distant cities like Fayetteville or Fort Smith, the journey offers a pleasant drive through the varied and beautiful landscapes of our state, making it an ideal destination for weekend getaways or longer vacations. The park's well-marked entrance and internal roads ensure easy navigation once you arrive. This combination of a secluded mountain setting with excellent road access makes Petit Jean State Park incredibly convenient for local residents to enjoy its vast offerings without the burden of extensive travel, ensuring that this natural treasure is truly within reach for all Arkansans.

Services Offered:

• 125 campsites, including 35 Class AAA sites (50-amp electricity, water, sewer) and 90 Class B sites (30-amp electricity, water).
• 26 pull-through campsites for easy RV access.
• 44-unit Rally-style Area with 20-amp electrical service for camping clubs.
• Group Camp Area with a heated bathhouse.
• 4 Rent-A-YURTs (round, high-walled tents) with electricity, cots, lantern, stove, ice chest, and canoe rentals for those without camping gear.
• 2 Rent-A-Camps (canvas tents) with sleeping mats, camp stove, and other gear, including a canoe.
• Fly-in campground with 5 tent sites (water and electric hookups) and a modern bathhouse, accessible via the park's airport.
• Modern bathhouses with hot showers and flush toilets in each camping area.
• RV dump station.
• Mather Lodge, a historic CCC-built lodge with 24 guest rooms, a restaurant with canyon views, and a gift shop.
• 21 fully equipped cabins (rustic single, duplex, and honeymoon cabins), many with fireplaces, kitchens, and heating/AC.
• Shoreline Restaurant at Mather Lodge offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily.
• Two lakes, Lake Bailey and Lake Roosevelt, for fishing (bass, crappie, catfish) and boating (10 HP motor limit).
• Boathouse offering boat, pedal boat, and water bike rentals (seasonal, Memorial Day to Labor Day).
• Two swimming pools (one for lodge/cabin guests, one public in the picnic area, open seasonally).
• Extensive hiking trail system (over 20 miles), including trails to Cedar Falls, Rock House Cave, and Bear Cave.
• Biking trails, including a paved CCC hike/bike trail.
• Picnic areas with tables and grills, including reservable pavilions.
• Playgrounds for children.
• Tennis and basketball courts.
• Amphitheater for interpretive programs and events.
• Visitor Center with interpretive exhibits and gift shop.
• Guided interpretive programs and events throughout the year.
• Museum of Automobiles (privately owned, near the park entrance).

Features / Highlights:

• Arkansas's First State Park: As the inaugural state park, Petit Jean holds significant historical importance, with many structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s, showcasing beautiful rustic architecture.

• Cedar Falls and Cedar Creek Canyon: The park's signature 95-foot cascading waterfall is a major draw, accessible via a moderately strenuous trail or a barrier-free overlook, offering stunning views.

• Unique Geological Formations: Explore fascinating features like Rock House Cave (with ancient Native American pictographs), Bear Cave (boulder passageways), the Grotto, Turtle Rocks, and Natural Bridge, providing incredible opportunities for exploration and photography.

• Panoramic Overlooks: Several scenic overlooks, including Stout's Point (Petit Jean's Gravesite), offer breathtaking panoramic views of the Arkansas River Valley and the surrounding Ouachita Mountains.

• Mather Lodge: This historic, rustic lodge built of native stone and wood provides comfortable accommodations and a full-service restaurant with dramatic views of Cedar Creek Canyon, especially beautiful at sunset.

• Diverse Lodging Options: Beyond traditional campsites, the park offers fully equipped cabins, unique Rent-A-YURTs, and Rent-A-Camps, catering to a wide range of preferences and ensuring an outdoor experience for everyone, regardless of gear ownership.

• Fly-in Campground: Petit Jean is Arkansas's only state park with its own airport, featuring a unique fly-in campground for aviation enthusiasts, making it a truly distinctive destination.

• Abundant Recreational Activities: With two lakes for fishing and boating, multiple swimming pools, over 20 miles of hiking and biking trails, tennis courts, and playgrounds, there's no shortage of activities to keep visitors of all ages engaged.

• Educational and Interpretive Programs: The park's Visitor Center offers exhibits on geology, history, and wildlife, and rangers conduct guided hikes and programs, enriching the visitor experience.

Contact Information:

Address: 1285 Petit Jean Mountain Rd, Morrilton, AR 72110, USA

Park Office: (501) 727-5441

Mather Lodge Restaurant: (501) 727-5431

Reservations (Park Office): (501) 727-5441

24-Hour Reservation Call Center: (866) 511-8740

Petit Jean State Park Airport: (501) 374-5022 (for fly-in campground reservations)

Petit Jean State Park is an unparalleled treasure for Arkansans, offering a comprehensive and truly memorable outdoor experience right in our own backyard. Its rich history, particularly the legacy of the CCC, adds a unique depth to the natural beauty of the mountain. For families, the diverse range of activities, from exploring ancient caves and hiking to a stunning waterfall to enjoying the lakes and playgrounds, ensures that every member finds something to love. The variety of accommodations, from full-service RV sites to rustic cabins and charming YURTs, means that every local can find their ideal way to experience this magnificent park.

The consistent praise for its "beautiful scenery," "well-maintained facilities," and the "friendly and helpful" staff reinforces its status as a top-tier destination. Petit Jean State Park is not just a place to visit; it’s a place to connect with Arkansas’s natural heritage, create lasting family traditions, and find peace and adventure amidst some of the most stunning landscapes our state has to offer. Its convenient location makes it an accessible escape for a day trip or an extended vacation, cementing its role as an indispensable part of the Arkansas experience for all who call this state home.