A Weekend in Russellville: Your Basecamp for the Arkansas River Valley

When you spend a weekend in Russellville, you’re within easy reach of some of the Arkansas River Valley’s best outdoor experiences. Four Arkansas state parks are just a short drive away, including the state’s highest point at Mount Magazine and the stunning landscapes and history of Petit Jean. The region also has plenty of opportunities to get out on the water, explore on a bike, hike through the woods or just take in a wide-open mountain view.

Adventure-packed outdoor activities and slow mountain mornings aren’t mutually exclusive in the River Valley. Keep reading for our guide on how to make the most of your stay.

Day One: Explore Downtown Russellville

Check in to your cabin at Mount Nebo State Park, where the historic, rustic-style cabins have been updated to include modern amenities. Drop your bags, take in the views from one of the park’s scenic overlooks and swing by the visitor center for any maps, brochures or essentials you might need for the weekend, then head into town to start exploring.

Spend the afternoon and evening wandering downtown Russellville, browsing local shops and picking out a spot for dinner – you’ve got some good options. Local favorites like Stoby’s Restaurant, The Old Bank, CJ’s Butcher Boy and Ridgewood Brothers BBQ give you a good taste of the local food scene. Be sure to stop by the Russellville Depot, formerly the Historic Missouri-Pacific Railroad Depot, to see a piece of Russellville history and the centerpiece of its downtown revitalization. If you’re looking for a nightcap, swing by The Handlebar for a drink before heading back to your cabin.

After dinner, settle in for the night at Mount Nebo. If the skies are clear, step outside and take in the night sky from the mountain view. 

Day Two: Scale Two Mountains in One Day

About 46 miles west of Mount Nebo sits the highest point in Arkansas, Mount Magazine. Start your day with a diner breakfast at Old South Restaurant in Russellville, then drive 30 minutes to explore the trails at Mount Magazine State Park. At 2,753 feet high, standing on the mountain makes you feel worlds away from the valley below. Hike one of the park’s trails, visit the overlooks or just enjoy the views – take it at your own pace! Before you go, make sure to stop for lunch at the Skycrest Restaurant inside the lodge.

Make your way back to Mount Nebo in the afternoon, and head to Sunset Point in time to catch the sunset. You’ll find sweeping views of the River Valley and benches, tables, rocks and overlooks where you can sit and take it all in. From there, you’ll want to head back to your cabin and rest up for your bright-and-early start to day three.

Day Three: Scenic Views from Start to Finish

Set your alarm early and head to Lake Dardanelle State Park before the day gets going. Watch the sunrise over the water while the lake is still and the shoreline is quiet – it’s one of the best ways to take in Lake Dardanelle.

Once the sun is up, take some time to explore the park. Rent a kayak or paddleboard at the kiosk, hike Meadowbrook Trail or cast a line off the fishing pier before heading to the next adventure.

From Lake Dardanelle, drive about 40 minutes southeast to Petit Jean State Park, stopping for lunch at Point Remove Brewing Company in Morrilton along the way. Petit Jean is Arkansas’ first state park, and it’s home to trails and overlooks ranging from leisurely strolls to more strenuous hikes. You’ll want to leave around 1 p.m. to give yourself plenty of time to explore the park.

One of the most popular trails at Petit Jean is Cedar Falls Trail, which winds through the forest to a 90-foot waterfall, one of the park’s most iconic sights. (If you’re a waterfall enthusiast, the River Valley is the place to be – there are more than 30 waterfalls in the area!) If you have some extra time, explore another one of the park’s trails or stop for a bite at Mather Lodge before heading home.

Know Before You Go

• Parking at state parks fills quickly on weekends, so be sure to arrive early or factor in time to find parking.
• The weather changes quickly on the mountains, so bring layers.
• Trails at Petit Jean vary from easy to strenuous. Be sure to check the difficulty level before starting your hike.
• Pope County is a dry county, though some spots have private club permits, so plan accordingly if you'd like to toast your adventure.