Petit Jean State Park - Morrilton, Arkansas

Follow me on Instagram! @MikeIsOutside

Petit Jean State Park in central Arkansas is a real gem and has the distinction of being the state's first state park. It's named after a legend about Petit Jean, a young French girl who disguised herself as a boy to follow her lover to America. She sadly passed away on the mountain, and her resting place, Petit Jean's Grave, is a popular spot in the park.

The park spans over 3,400 acres and offers all sorts of outdoor activities. You can hike, camp, fish, and even go boating. One of the highlights is Cedar Falls, a stunning 95-foot waterfall that's especially impressive after a rain. There are several trails to explore, like the Cedar Falls Trail that takes you to the base of the waterfall and the Seven Hollows Trail with its cool rock formations and natural bridges.

Nature lovers will enjoy the park's diverse wildlife and plant life. If you’re looking to stay overnight, the historic Mather Lodge, built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps, offers cozy accommodations and a dining area with amazing views of the Arkansas River Valley. The park also features the Museum of Automobiles, which has a collection of vintage cars that add a nice cultural touch to your visit.

Whether you're up for an outdoor adventure, interested in some local history, or just want to soak in the beauty of nature, Petit Jean State Park has something for everyone and makes for an unforgettable trip.