Petit Jean State Park, Arkansas Valley Travel Guide

4.8 (5990)

Discover Arkansas's first state park: breathtaking views, historic sites, and outdoor adventures await at Petit Jean State Park.

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Petit Jean State Park

Petit Jean State Park, Arkansas's first state park, offers a rich tapestry of natural beauty and historical significance. From stunning overlooks and cascading waterfalls to ancient Native American rock art and rustic CCC-era architecture, the park provides a diverse and captivating experience for visitors of all ages.

A brief summary to Petit Jean State Park

1285 Petit Jean Mountain Rd, Morrilton, Arkansas, 72110, US
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Monday 8 am-5 pm
Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
Thursday 8 am-5 pm
Friday 8 am-5 pm
Saturday 8 am-5 pm
Sunday 8 am-5 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Petit Jean State Park.

Visit the Dr. T.W. Hardison Visitor Center to learn about the park's history, geology, and attractions.
Hike the Cedar Falls Trail for stunning views of the 95-foot waterfall.
Explore the Rock House Cave to see ancient Native American pictographs.
Enjoy water activities such as fishing, kayaking, and pedal boating on Lake Bailey.
Check the park's website or visitor center for updates on trail conditions, weather forecasts, and park events.

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Explore Petit Jean State Park on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Petit Jean State Park, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

Petit Jean State Park is located a few miles southwest of Morrilton, Arkansas. From Little Rock, take I-40 West to Exit 108 for AR-9 towards Morrilton. Turn left onto AR-9 South and continue for 7.5 miles, then turn right onto AR-154 West and stay on for 12.5 miles. From Fort Smith, take I-40 East to Exit 108 for AR-9 towards Morrilton. Turn left onto AR-9 South and continue for 7.5 miles, then turn right onto AR-154 West and stay on for 12.5 miles. Follow AR-154 (Petit Jean Mountain Road) to the park entrance. There is no fee to enter Petit Jean State Park. Parking is available in multiple lots near the park's attractions and campsites.

Discover more about Petit Jean State Park

Nestled atop Petit Jean Mountain, rising 1,120 feet above the Arkansas River Valley, Petit Jean State Park is a treasure trove of natural wonders and historical landmarks. Established in 1923, it holds the distinction of being Arkansas's first state park, setting the stage for the state's renowned park system. The park's 3,471 acres encompass a diverse landscape of forests, canyons, streams, and unique geological formations.The park's name is derived from a captivating legend of Adrienne Dumont, a young French woman who disguised herself as a cabin boy, known as 'Petit Jean' (Little John), to accompany her fiancé on an expedition to the New World in the 1700s. According to the tale, she fell ill during their visit to the mountain and was buried there. While the legend's authenticity is debated, it adds a touch of romance and mystery to the park's allure.Petit Jean Mountain has a rich history that predates European exploration. Archaeological evidence suggests that Native Americans inhabited the area as early as 1,000 years ago, leaving behind a legacy of rock art and cultural sites. The Rock House Cave, a massive bluff shelter, showcases pictographs painted by these early inhabitants, offering a glimpse into their lives and beliefs.During the Great Depression, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) played a pivotal role in developing Petit Jean State Park. From 1933 to 1941, the CCC constructed roads, trails, bridges, cabins, and the iconic Mather Lodge, leaving an enduring mark on the park's landscape and infrastructure. Mather Lodge, a 24-room lodge overlooking Cedar Creek Canyon, stands as a prime example of CCC rustic-style architecture, featuring a restaurant, meeting rooms, and a gift shop.Petit Jean State Park boasts a variety of attractions and activities for outdoor enthusiasts. The 95-foot Cedar Falls is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Arkansas, accessible via a scenic trail. Other notable trails include the Seven Hollows Trail, known for its unique rock formations, and the Bear Cave Trail, a maze-like experience through boulder-strewn terrain. Lake Bailey, a 100-acre lake formed by a CCC rock dam, offers opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and pedal boating. The park also features swimming pools, picnic areas, playgrounds, and sports facilities.