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Northeast Arkansas may be known as flat and boring... but it is quite the opposite at some quirky, fun, and adventurous places just waiting for you to explore them! Northeast Arkansas has a treasure trove of places to explore that are a bit off the beaten path compared to some of the other more popular areas of the state, such as the Ozarks or northwest Arkansas.
We've compiled a list of our favorite places to visit in northeast Arkansas and a few "must-dos" while you are there!
1. Jonesboro, AR
Jonesboro, AR, is where the original Gearhead store is. This outdoor store is located in the historic downtown area and has not one but TWO storefronts downtown. Just the location itself is impressive. You'll be even more impressed once you see the gear and clothing selection for all your excursions. Gearhead is a must-go-see for me. They also have a location near Kroger, but I recommend going to their store downtown if it is your first time.
Another great place to visit in Jonesboro is the Forest L. Wood Crowley's Ridge Nature Center. This nature center is run by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission and has special events, programs during the summer, an amazing exhibit hall to explore, and trails to meander!
Crowley's Ridge is a unique land formation that is like no other. The creation of this Arkansas region is showcased in an immersive movie theatre at the nature center. The floor rumbles and lightning strikes are so realistic that they'll make you jump! The trails at this nature center connect to Craighead Forest Park, which Jonesboro City Parks and Recreation run.
Craighead Forest Park is a 692-acre park that offers visitors basketball, bike/running trails, bird watching, camping, disc golf, fishing, horseshoes, playgrounds, softball, and volleyball! This place, created in 1937, is a fantastic place to explore Crowley's Ridge after learning about its creation at the nature center.
And my favorite restaurant in town is a bit unconventional, but oh so good! The Parsonage is located downtown in a historic building. The restaurant is a great brunch or lunch spot. The quirky place has vintage furniture and locally grown ingredients for each dish. The BEST item on the menu is the cinnamon roll. They are huge and have lemon icing. (A personal favorite.) But they are very big; you'll definitely want to share!
Crowley's Ridge State Park is located in the forested hills just north of Jonesboro on top of Crowley's Ridge. This beautiful park was constructed in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps and features rustic cabins with modern amenities, 25 campsites, picnic areas, hiking trails, pavilions, two lakes, and a swimming area.
3. Hardy, AR
Hardy is located only 30 minutes south of the Arkansas Missouri border and they have the cutest downtown area!
The Corner Booth is a solid breakfast place located in the downtown area. Fly fishing and river adventures abound in this small town!
4. Wilson, AR
The downtown area of this town has the sweetest shops, restaurants and features one of Arkansas State Parks, Hampson Archaeological State Park.
The cafe in town does special events and dinners frequently so plan your visit for a wine tasting, beer evening, or special meal.
5. Mammoth Springs, AR
When I say I love Mammoth Springs, I mean it. The Spring River is epic. The state park has the BEST bath rooms (no lie the best bathrooms in the state). And the area is absolutely beautiful.
A perfect day in Mammoth Springs includes stopping at the state park to walk around the lake and tour the train station, visiting the USFWS fish hatchery (I love their exhibits), fly fishing on the spring river and rounding out the day eating at a local restaurant.
Mammoth Springs is a perfect romantic weekend getaway, friend adventure or quick trip!
Northeast Arkansas is an unknown destination! Go explore the natural state and see the wild side of Arkansas.
Be inspired and get outside!
~Following the Fernweh~
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