Ola ArkansasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Ola, Arkansas.
1. Holla Bend National Wildlife Refuge
SCENIC WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
Holla Bend National Wildlife Refuge offers visitors a chance to observe diverse wildlife in their natural habitats. The refuge features excellent bird watching opportunities, especially during migration seasons. Visitors can explore various trails and viewing areas to experience the natural beauty of Arkansas.
2. Mount Nebo State Park
MAJESTIC MOUNTAIN VIEWS
Mount Nebo State Park sits atop a mountain plateau with breathtaking views of the Arkansas River Valley. The park offers numerous hiking trails, mountain biking opportunities, and camping facilities for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy spectacular sunrise and sunset views from multiple overlooks throughout the park.
3. Arkansas River Visitors Center
RIVER HISTORY HUB
The Arkansas River Visitors Center provides comprehensive information about the history and importance of the Arkansas River. Exhibits showcase the river's role in transportation, commerce, and recreation throughout the state's development. Visitors can learn about local attractions and gather resources for exploring the surrounding area.
4. North Sylamore Creek Trail
SCENIC WILDERNESS HIKE
North Sylamore Creek Trail offers hikers a challenging 23.7-mile path through some of Arkansas's most beautiful wilderness. The trail follows the picturesque Sylamore Creek, providing numerous water crossings and opportunities to cool off during warmer months. Hikers can experience diverse ecosystems and potentially spot native wildlife throughout their journey.
5. Whitaker Point Trail
ICONIC ROCK FORMATION
Whitaker Point Trail leads to the famous Hawksbill Crag, one of Arkansas's most photographed natural features. The moderate 3-mile round trip hike offers spectacular views of the Buffalo River wilderness below. Visitors should bring cameras to capture the iconic rock formation that juts dramatically over the valley.
6. Cedar Falls Trail
MAJESTIC WATERFALL HIKE
Cedar Falls Trail in Petit Jean State Park leads to one of Arkansas's most impressive waterfalls. The moderate 2-mile round trip hike takes visitors through a lush canyon to the 95-foot Cedar Falls. The trail is especially spectacular after rainfall when the falls are at their most powerful.
7. Athens Big Fork Trail
CHALLENGING MOUNTAIN TREK
Athens Big Fork Trail offers serious hikers a challenging 10.2-mile path across multiple mountain ridges in the Ouachita National Forest. The trail features significant elevation changes, crossing eight mountains with rewarding panoramic views at each summit. Hikers should be prepared for a strenuous adventure that showcases some of the most rugged terrain in Arkansas.
8. Lake Dardanelle State Park
WATERFRONT RECREATION HAVEN
Lake Dardanelle State Park offers visitors access to a 34,300-acre reservoir on the Arkansas River with excellent fishing, boating, and water recreation opportunities. The park features two marinas, camping facilities, picnic areas, and hiking trails for year-round enjoyment. Visitors can learn about local ecology at the park's interpretive visitor center with aquariums and interactive exhibits.
9. Petit Jean State Park
ARKANSAS'S FIRST STATE PARK
Petit Jean State Park, Arkansas's first state park, offers visitors a blend of natural beauty and historic structures atop Petit Jean Mountain. The park features impressive geological formations, scenic overlooks, and numerous hiking trails for all skill levels. Visitors can stay at the historic Mather Lodge or explore the CCC-built structures that showcase rustic park architecture.
10. Blue Mountain Lake
PEACEFUL FISHING DESTINATION
Blue Mountain Lake provides a tranquil setting for fishing, boating, and water recreation near Ola. The lake is known for excellent bass, crappie, and catfish fishing opportunities throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful surroundings and scenic views of the Arkansas River Valley from multiple access points.
11. Dardanelle Rock
HISTORIC RIVER LANDMARK
Dardanelle Rock stands as a significant natural landmark along the Arkansas River that guided travelers for centuries. The rock formation played an important role in the region's history as a navigation marker and observation point. Visitors can view this historic site and learn about its significance to early river transportation and regional development.
12. Ouachita National Recreation Trail
LONG-DISTANCE HIKING ADVENTURE
The Ouachita National Recreation Trail offers segments near Ola for hikers looking to experience Arkansas's diverse mountain landscapes. The trail stretches 223 miles across the Ouachita Mountains, providing opportunities for day hikes or multi-day backpacking adventures. Hikers can enjoy scenic vistas, diverse forests, and potential wildlife encounters along well-maintained paths.
13. Fourche Bottoms Restaurant
LOCAL SOUTHERN CUISINE
Fourche Bottoms Restaurant serves authentic Southern comfort food in the heart of Ola. The restaurant specializes in home-style cooking with locally sourced ingredients when possible. Visitors can enjoy classic dishes like fried catfish, chicken fried steak, and homemade pies in a casual, friendly atmosphere.
14. Russellville Downtown Historic District
CHARMING SHOPPING AREA
Russellville's Downtown Historic District features well-preserved buildings housing unique shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Visitors can browse local boutiques, art galleries, and specialty stores while admiring the historic architecture. The district hosts various events throughout the year, including festivals, farmers markets, and live music performances.
15. Museum of Automobiles
VINTAGE CAR COLLECTION
The Museum of Automobiles on Petit Jean Mountain displays a remarkable collection of vintage and classic cars, including several that belonged to Arkansas Governor Winthrop Rockefeller. The museum features meticulously restored vehicles from various eras, with detailed information about each automobile's history and significance. Visitors can view rare models and learn about the evolution of automotive design and technology throughout the decades.