There are times we all need a few days away…and that includes your 4-legged furry friends! Don’t leave the pooch at home…take him/her with you for a relaxing retreat in Southeast Arkansas!

Day 1: Star City/Gillett/Rohwer/McGehee

Start off with a trip to beautiful Cane Creek State Park in Star City and bring a picnic lunch. The park is located in the area where the rolling terrain of the West Gulf Coastal Plain and the alluvial lands of east Arkansas' Delta meet, and the facility offers the chance to explore two of the state’s distinct natural settings in one visit. Do some hiking or biking in the 2,171 acres of woodlands in the Coastal Plain. Paddle or fish on 1,675-acre Cane Creek Lake and experience the natural beauty and abundant wildlife that inhabit Arkansas' Lower Delta region. Enjoy a relaxing lunch in one of the park’s picnic sites, taking in the scenic beauty of the area. Oh…and don’t miss the chance to visit and explore the nearby Bayou Bartholomew, which happens to be the world's longest bayou.

Depart Star City and head east to Gillett, home of Arkansas Post National Memorial, one of The Natural State’s most historic spots. The National Park Service facility commemorates the first permanent European settlement in the lower Mississippi River valley. Arkansas Post was also the location of the only Revolutionary War skirmish, in 1783, to take place in what is now Arkansas. Due to the settlement’s proximity to the Arkansas River, Arkansas Post was an important part of Arkansas’ history, becoming the first capitol of Arkansas Territory in 1819. The Post also played an important part in Arkansas’ Civil War history. Take your favorite pooch for a stroll around the historic townsite, visit the site of the Battle of Arkansas Post, or wander along the Post Bayou Nature Trail.

After leaving Gillett, take a trip to Rohwer to visit Rohwer Relocation Center. The National Historic Landmark is the site of a Japanese-American Relocation Center that operated from 1941-1945. Japanese-American citizens from California were interned here, including actor George Takei’s family. Interpretive panels feature narrative recorded by Takei. The area includes a cemetery, historical monuments and the smokestack from the original laundry. 

Time to grab some dinner and call it a night. So head to McGehee and the Delta Resort & Spa. Located on 2,000 acres in the heart of the Lower Delta, the resort offers a respite from the daily grind. The property offers two hotels, as well as a great restaurant and bar, and outdoor activities that span the gamut. The 43 Grill and Bar offers visitors an opportunity to enjoy Southern-style gourmet cuisine and a wide variety of spirits. And don’t miss the Duck Pro Outfitters, equipped with anything you might need to experience the great Delta outdoors…everything from casual and exercise wear to hunting and shooting sports apparel.

Day 2: McGehee/Lake Village

Start the day off early with some outdoor adventures at the Delta Resort & Spa. Do a little shooting…skeet or sporting clays, your choice. Not in a shooting mood? Reserve a cart and explore the area for birds and wildlife. Your furry friend will enjoy the morning just as much as you!

Lake Village is just a short drive away. Time to start thinking about lunch. Stop by one of the town’s restaurants (here’s a list!) and head to downtown Lake Village and the Jack R. Rhodes Lakefront Park. The beautiful park, adjacent to scenic Lake Chicot, offers picnic pavilions so you and your pup can enjoy lunch al fresco. Afterwards, take a walk along beautiful Lakeshore Drive or explore the historic downtown area. Maybe a quick stop at the Paul Michael Company for a little shopping. And don’t forget to stop by the Arkansas Welcome Center for a free cup of coffee and pick up a few free brochures!

Next stop – Lake Chicot State Park. Whether you prefer camping or a cabin, you’ll find it at the park. There’s plenty to do upon your arrival…hiking, birdwatching, fishing, or, depending on the time of year, a dip in the park’s pool. There’s really something for everyone, including your 4-legged buddy. Lake Chicot State Park is located along Arkansas’ largest natural lake and the largest oxbow lake in North America, and the views are spectacular.

To learn more about Southeast Arkansas and the Lower Delta, go to arkansas.com/regions/lower-delta