Oak Grove ArkansasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Oak Grove, Arkansas.
1. Cosmic Cavern
HISTORIC UNDERGROUND WONDER
Cosmic Cavern is a popular natural attraction near Oak Grove featuring impressive underground formations. Visitors can explore the cave system with guided tours that highlight its unique geological features. The cavern maintains a constant temperature year-round, making it an ideal destination regardless of the season.
2. Dogwood Canyon Nature Park
PRISTINE NATURAL PRESERVE
Dogwood Canyon Nature Park offers a stunning natural experience close to Oak Grove with walking trails, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. The park spans 10,000 acres of pristine Ozark Mountain landscape that visitors can explore through hiking, biking, fishing, or guided tours. Its crystal-clear streams and abundant plant life make it a photographer's paradise and a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts.
3. Har-Ber Village
LIVING HISTORY MUSEUM
Har-Ber Village is a pioneer-era village and history museum located on the shores of Grand Lake o' the Cherokees. The seasonal attraction operates from the third Saturday in March through the first Saturday in November, showcasing life in the 19th century. Visitors can explore numerous historic buildings and artifacts that tell the story of early settlers in the region.
4. Grand Lake O' the Cherokees
SPECTACULAR WATERFRONT RECREATION
Grand Lake O' the Cherokees is a magnificent lake destination offering numerous water-based activities near Oak Grove. The southern part of the lake features luxury homes and impressive boats, creating a high-end atmosphere for visitors. With over 46,000 acres of water surface, the lake provides ample opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, and other water sports.
5. Lendonwood Gardens
SERENE BOTANICAL RETREAT
Lendonwood Gardens provides a tranquil botanical experience featuring diverse plant collections and landscaped areas. The gardens showcase a variety of themed sections including Japanese, Oriental, and English gardens among others. Visitors can enjoy seasonal blooms, peaceful walking paths, and artistic garden design throughout the year.
6. Arkansas Post National Memorial
HISTORIC RIVER SETTLEMENT
Arkansas Post National Memorial preserves the remains of the first European settlement in the lower Mississippi River Valley. Located along the lower Arkansas River, this 389-acre site commemorates cultural interactions between Native Americans and European settlers. Visitors can explore exhibits, archaeological sites, and natural areas that tell the story of this significant historical location.
7. Honey Creek Area at Grand Lake State Park
LAKESIDE CAMPING PARADISE
Honey Creek Area at Grand Lake State Park offers excellent camping facilities with lake views and outdoor recreation opportunities. The park features well-maintained sites with burn pits, grills, and picnic tables for a comfortable outdoor experience. Popular activities include fishing, boating, hiking, and wildlife observation in this scenic natural setting.
8. Grand Lake Casino
ENTERTAINMENT AND GAMING
Grand Lake Casino provides 45,000 square feet of gaming and live entertainment approximately eight miles north of Grove. The casino offers a variety of gaming options including slots, table games, and regular special events. Its location just one mile from Grand Lake makes it a convenient entertainment option for visitors to the area.
9. Grand Lake Renaissance Festival
MEDIEVAL CULTURAL EXPERIENCE
The Grand Lake Renaissance Festival transports visitors to a bygone era with period costumes, performances, and activities. The festival features artisans, musicians, and actors who bring medieval culture to life through demonstrations and interactive experiences. Attendees can enjoy traditional food, shop for handcrafted items, and participate in games and entertainment authentic to the Renaissance period.
10. Copeland Switch
PEACEFUL KAYAKING SPOT
Copeland Switch offers a tranquil kayaking experience in its protected cove surrounded by natural beauty. The area provides perfect conditions for paddling with calm waters and scenic views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and opportunity to connect with nature in this hidden gem of Grand Lake.
11. War Eagle Mill
HISTORIC WORKING GRISTMILL
War Eagle Mill is a working gristmill that has been grinding organic grains since the 1800s near Oak Grove. The historic structure houses a store selling freshly ground flours, mixes, and other local products made on-site. Visitors can tour the mill, watch grinding demonstrations, and enjoy the onsite restaurant featuring dishes made with the mill's products.
12. Beaver Lake
OUTDOOR RECREATION DESTINATION
Beaver Lake spans 28,000 acres of clear water surrounded by the natural beauty of the Ozark Mountains near Oak Grove. The lake offers year-round recreation including fishing, boating, swimming, and scuba diving in its pristine waters. Numerous parks, marinas, and campgrounds provide access points and amenities for visitors enjoying this popular outdoor destination.
13. Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge
BIG CAT SANCTUARY
Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge provides a safe haven for rescued big cats and other wildlife on its 459-acre sanctuary. The refuge focuses on the rescue and care of abandoned, abused, and neglected big cats including tigers, lions, leopards, and cougars. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the animals' stories and the conservation efforts that support these magnificent creatures.
14. Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
WORLD-CLASS ART COLLECTION
Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art houses a stunning collection of American masterpieces spanning five centuries in a spectacular natural setting. The museum's unique architecture integrates with the surrounding landscape, featuring pavilions built over spring-fed ponds connected by bridges. In addition to its impressive permanent collection, the museum offers temporary exhibitions, educational programs, and miles of walking trails through its 120-acre wooded grounds.
15. Thorncrown Chapel
ARCHITECTURAL GLASS MASTERPIECE
Thorncrown Chapel is an architectural marvel constructed with 425 windows and over 6,000 square feet of glass in the Ozark woods. The stunning glass structure rises 48 feet tall and features a unique design that makes visitors feel they are truly worshipping among the trees. This award-winning chapel has been recognized as one of the most outstanding architectural works of modern times and attracts visitors from around the world.