Best Hikes, Parks, and Outdoor Spaces in Central Arkansas

One of the best things about living in Central Arkansas is the easy access to nature. From scenic hiking trails to family-friendly parks and riverfront spaces, this region offers endless opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. Whether you’re relocating here or just looking for a new weekend adventure, here are some of the best hikes, parks, and outdoor spaces in Central Arkansas.

🌄 Pinnacle Mountain State Park (Little Rock)

• Why go: Iconic Central Arkansas hike with stunning views from the summit.

• Highlights: West Summit and East Summit trails, Arkansas Arboretum, mountain biking trails, and access to the Arkansas River Trail.

• Website: Pinnacle Mountain State Park

🌳 Two Rivers Park (Little Rock)

• Why go: Perfect for walking, biking, or jogging along scenic paved trails.

• Highlights: River views, pedestrian bridge, dog-friendly, and family picnic areas.

• Website: Two Rivers Park Info

🛶 Burns Park (North Little Rock)

• Why go: One of the largest municipal parks in the U.S. (over 1,700 acres).

• Highlights: Golf courses, soccer fields, playgrounds, RV camping, hiking/biking trails, and access to the Arkansas River Trail.

• Website: Burns Park

🚶‍♀️ Big Dam Bridge & Arkansas River Trail (Little Rock/North Little Rock)

• Why go: The longest pedestrian/bicycle bridge in the U.S. built specifically for foot traffic.

• Highlights: Panoramic river views, connects 15+ miles of paved trails, perfect for cycling and jogging.

• Website: Arkansas River Trail

  
  

🌳 Lake Conway & Cadron Settlement Park (Conway)

• Why go: Great mix of lake access and historic hiking.

• Highlights: Fishing, boating, hiking trails, scenic views of the Arkansas River, and historic log cabin structures.

🦌 Maumelle Park (Little Rock)

• Why go: Popular camping, fishing, and riverfront spot near the city.

• Highlights: RV hookups, picnic shelters, playgrounds, wildlife viewing, and direct access to the Arkansas River.

• Website: Maumelle Park Info

🚴‍♂️ Allsopp Park (Little Rock)

• Why go: A favorite for locals with quick access to wooded trails.

• Highlights: Hiking and biking trails, playgrounds, tennis courts, and open green space near Hillcrest/Midtown.

🌞 Wildwood Park for the Arts (West Little Rock)

• Why go: A unique outdoor arts and garden space.

• Highlights: Botanical gardens, walking trails, concerts, and cultural events.

• Website: Wildwood Park

🌳 War Memorial Park (Little Rock)

• Why go: Centrally located with family-friendly amenities.

• Highlights: Playgrounds, splash pad, golf course, historic stone structures, and easy access to War Memorial Stadium.

🌿 Murray Park (Little Rock)

• Why go: Perfect for riverside picnics and dog walks.

• Highlights: Riverfront views, pavilions, trails, off-leash dog park, and playgrounds.

🦆 Lake Willastein Park (Maumelle)

• Why go: A beautiful community park surrounding a lake.

• Highlights: Walking/jogging trails, fishing piers, fountains, and family-friendly events.

🌲 Kanis Park (Little Rock)

• Why go: Great for skaters and bikers.

• Highlights: Skateboarding park, basketball courts, wooded trails, and central city location.

🚶‍♀️ Emerald Park (North Little Rock)

• Why go: Offers some of the best bluff-top views of the Arkansas River.

• Highlights: Scenic walking paths, open green space, and photo-worthy overlooks.

🌄 Rattlesnake Ridge Natural Area (Roland)

• Why go: A hidden gem for hikers just west of Little Rock.

• Highlights: Moderate hikes with incredible ridge-top views, popular for sunrise/sunset hikes.

• Website: Rattlesnake Ridge

🚴‍♂️ Rock Creek Trail System (Little Rock)

• Why go: Expanding trail network for biking, walking, and commuting.

• Highlights: Connects neighborhoods to larger trail systems across Little Rock.

🌊 Lake Maumelle (West of Little Rock)

• Why go: A reservoir offering boating, fishing, and wildlife watching.

• Highlights: No swimming allowed, but great for kayaking, sailing, and birding.

🏕 Woolly Hollow State Park (Greenbrier)

• Why go: A short drive from Central AR, ideal for camping and lake activities.

• Highlights: Lake Bennett, swimming, fishing, hiking trails, and campgrounds.

🌳 MacArthur Park (Little Rock)

• Why go: The oldest municipal park in Little Rock, near downtown.

• Highlights: Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts, dog park, playground, and scenic pond.

✅ The Bottom Line

Central Arkansas offers no shortage of outdoor escapes—whether you’re into hiking, biking, kayaking, camping, or just a relaxing picnic by the water. Living here means you’re never far from a new trail or park to explore.

👩‍💼 Thinking About Moving to Central Arkansas?

One reason so many people choose to relocate here is the balance of city convenience and outdoor lifestyle. If you’re considering a move to Little Rock, Conway, Bryant, Benton, or Maumelle, I’d love to show you around.

📲 Contact Me Here to learn more about homes near these great outdoor spaces!