Bundle up for some outdoor fun

Just because it’s January doesn’t mean we can’t grab the kids and head outdoors for some fun! The average temperature in January in Arkansas is 29.3 degrees…while that it a bit nippy, it’s not too cold to enjoy the beauty of winter in The Natural State! So grab some gloves, a scarf and your coat and head outside!

The Big River Crossing in West Memphis is quickly becoming a favorite walking/running/biking spot in the Arkansas Delta. Kids and adults alike enjoy the beautiful views of the Mighty Mississippi River from the walkway. Nearly 300,000 people have crossed the nearly mile-long pedestrian bridge, which has the distinction of being the longest public pedestrian/bike bridge across the Mississippi River. So if your preference is biking, jogging, running or just strolling with Fido (yes, furry family members are permitted!), you’ll have a great time at the Big River Crossing.

Winter is a great time to do some wildlife watching. Kids of all ages like seeing animals in their natural habitat and we’re lucky in Arkansas to have some of our native birds and wildlife remain during the season, but also a variety of “visiting” critters! A great example is the majestic Bald Eagle. One of the best places to see a variety of native and visiting wildlife is at Moro Bay State Park near Jersey. Located where Moro Bay and Raymond Lake meet the Ouachita River, the park is considered one of the state’s most popular fishing and water sports areas. The park is also abundant in native mammals, and winter is a great time to get out and see them.