8 summer weekend getaways in Arkansas to escape the heat in 2024

Heat waves have hit virtually every part of the US this year. If you want to escape the heat but still stay in the natural state, here are some fantastic summer getaways Arkansas.

Eureka Resources

Up in the Ozarks, Eureka Resources is a beautiful town with a great historic center. Enjoy great nightlife including a whiskey bar, cocktail lounge and the amazing Top of the Crest rooftop bar at the 1886 Crescent Hotel. The town is known for its spas and was in fact a Victorian seaside resort where people could enjoy the natural cold springs. That is still possible in the Palace Bath House.

Eureka Springs, between two rivers and a lake, is also a great place for paddling, floating and fishing.

Parrot Island Water Park

Located in Fort Smith, Arkansas, Parrot Island Water Park has the area’s only two-lane FlowRider and wave pool. With a fantastic water playground, it’s a great place to take the kids. While Tiny Turtle Island is great for the little ones. There is also an activity pool for activities such as water polo and water basketball. Once you’re done with the park, head to Fort Smith where you can check out the United States Marshals Museum or dine at the many fine restaurants.

Siloam feathers

Only 30 miles from Fayetteville, Siloam feathers is a beautiful seaside resort. Sager Creek flows right through downtown past beautiful parks with fountains, historic buildings and a variety of shops. Enjoy time on the water at Siloam Springs Kayak Park, which features a constructed river with sections for both beginners and experienced kayakers. Or venture into the cool underworld at Cosmic Cavern in Berryville. The temperature there hovers around 62 degrees all year round!

Beaver lake

Beaver lake is popular with swimmers, snorkelers and divers. If you don’t want to get into the water, you can enjoy fishing, boating, water sports and beautiful coastal walks. In the parks around the lake there are several modern campsites with good facilities and picnic areas available. It is the largest reservoir in northwest Arkansas and a truly beautiful place to visit.

Mountain house

It is what the name suggests: a cozy town surrounded by lakes and hills. Come to Mountain house for canoeing and fishing… this was one of the first water resort areas in Arkansas, so there are tons of activities for you to enjoy. You can also see stalactites and stalagmites at Bull Shoals Caverns, and visit the local quilt shop while staying in one of the many cute cabins or luxury lodges.

Buffalo National River

America’s oldest national river is one of the few remaining undammed rivers in the lower 48. You can paddle the river or explore trails of all difficulty levels. Buffalo National River has both quiet sections for floating and challenging whitewater. Camping in the park gives you the chance to see the night sky as it should be, as BNR is an International Dark Sky Park.

Hot springs

While you might not really want to jump in the hot springs on a really hot day, Hot Springs offer plenty of other things to do. A great summer cooling option is the Magic Springs Theme and Water Park with intense thrill rides and family attractions and of course a water park with a wave pool, splash zone and a huge slide tower. Plus, there is live music all year round. And you can even rent a cabana!

Lake Ouachita

Arkansas’ largest lake is a beautiful place for swimming, diving, kayaking or water skiing. There are many swimming spots. Lake Ouachita is also a great place for a scenic boat tour or a swim cruise with a park ranger, which will take you to perfectly hidden gems. If you want to stay overnight, there are beautiful full-service cabins.

These are just a few suggestions for great places to go when the temperatures soar. You could find many more, as Arkansas is a state with some fantastic lakes and rivers where you can cool off while also enjoying hiking and nature.