Looking ahead to the summer, it’s clear that things are going to heat up. The NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center has identified 36 states as likely to experience above-average temperatures. Following a record-breaking March heatwave, forecasters are predicting one of the hottest summers in recent memory. Arkansas is right in the middle of this warm zone.
The good news is that Arkansas is well-equipped to handle the heat. With spring-fed lakes, year-round cave systems with cool temperatures, and rivers perfect for floating, there are plenty of options for beating the heat. Here are eight destinations worth considering when your air conditioner can’t keep up.
Parrot Island Waterpark
Located in Fort Smith, Parrot Island Waterpark is the perfect destination if you’re traveling with kids. It features the area’s only two-lane FlowRider, a wave pool, an expansive aquatic play zone, Tiny Turtle Island for young swimmers, and an activity pool for water polo and basketball.
After a day at the waterpark, explore Fort Smith’s U.S. Marshals Museum and enjoy the local restaurant scene just minutes away.
Eureka Springs
Nestled in the Ozarks, Eureka Springs is a picturesque town that seems almost too good to be true. The historic downtown area cascades down the hillside, offering a vibrant nightlife scene with whiskey bars, cocktail lounges, and the Top of the Crest rooftop bar at the 1886 Crescent Hotel.
Originally a Victorian resort centered around its cold springs, Eureka Springs still offers the opportunity to soak in the natural springs at the Palace Bath House. Surrounded by two rivers and a lake, the town is a haven for paddling, floating, and fishing enthusiasts.
Petit Jean State Park
Home to the impressive 95-foot Cedar Falls and shaded canyon trails, Petit Jean State Park is a gem within the Arkansas state park system. For more information on state parks in Arkansas, visit Arkansas State Parks.
Siloam Springs
Just a short drive from Fayetteville, Siloam Springs is a charming town with a laid-back vibe. Sager Creek runs through the walkable downtown area, lined with fountains, historic storefronts, and independent shops.
The highlight of Siloam Springs is the Siloam Springs Kayak Park, a man-made whitewater course suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers. For those looking to escape the heat, Cosmic Cavern in nearby Berryville maintains a cool temperature of around 62°F year-round.
Beaver Lake
As the largest reservoir in northwest Arkansas, Beaver Lake is a popular destination for swimmers, snorkelers, and divers. If water activities aren’t your thing, there’s also fishing, boating, and hiking along the shoreline. The surrounding parks offer modern campsites and picnic areas, providing a balance of nature and comfort.
Mountain Home
Mountain Home lives up to its name, offering a cozy retreat surrounded by lakes and hills. As one of Arkansas’s original water-resort areas, it boasts activities such as canoeing, fishing, and lakeside relaxation.
Explore Bull Shoals Caverns to see stunning stalactites and stalagmites, visit local quilt shops, and stay overnight in a cabin or luxury lodge for a complete mountain getaway experience.
Buffalo National River
Designated as America’s first national river, the Buffalo River remains one of the few undammed rivers in the lower 48 states. Visitors can enjoy tranquil stretches of water or challenge themselves with whitewater rafting, followed by hikes of varying difficulty levels. One of the best features of this park is its status as an International Dark Sky Park, providing an unparalleled stargazing experience for campers.
Hot Springs
Although soaking in hot springs during the summer may not sound appealing, Hot Springs offers a variety of cool attractions. Magic Springs Theme and Water Park features thrilling rides, a wave pool, splash zones, and a towering slide tower for adrenaline junkies. Live music events are held year-round, and visitors can rent a cabana for a luxurious afternoon by the water.
Blanchard Springs Caverns (Fifty-Six)
A natural cave system that maintains a cool temperature of around 58°F regardless of the weather above ground. With its crystal formations and underground streams, Blanchard Springs Caverns offers a unique way to beat the heat in Arkansas.
Lake Ouachita
As Arkansas’s largest lake, Lake Ouachita offers clear waters
