Petit Jean State Park Tours

Photo provided by Photo Courtesy Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism
Photo provided by Photo Courtesy Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism
Photo provided by Photo Courtesy Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism
Photo provided by Photo Courtesy Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism
Photo provided by Photo Courtesy Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism


Go to this historic park to experience Arkansas’ breathtaking natural beauty, embrace the great outdoors and try a range of outdoor activities suitable for the whole family.

Discover the natural beauty and ancient geology of Petit Jean State Park, the oldest state park in Arkansas. Consisting of over 2,660 acres (1,080 hectares) of parkland around Petit Jean Mountain, the park features both dramatic natural scenery and modern resources to ensure a comfortable visit.

Choose from over 20 miles (30 kilometers) of hiking trails, which are well signposted and conveniently divided into easy, modern and strenuous difficulty levels to help you plan for your energy level. Discover forests, canyons, streams and bold geological formations. Walk under gigantic sandstone boulders, marvel at the spectacular 95-foot (29-meter) Cedar Falls and enjoy sweeping views of the rugged surroundings from spectacular vantage points located around the park.

Journey into the nation’s past in the atmospheric Rock House Cave, which contains examples of 500-year-old Native American rock art. Discover awe-inspiring views and the gravesite of Petit Jean at the park’s most well-known overlook at Stout’s Point. Here, learn about the romantic legend of the 18th-century Frenchwoman after whom the park was named.

Rent a canoe, kayak or fishing boat from the boathouse and glide across the waters of Lake Bailey, which covers 100 acres (40 hectares) and is very popular for fishing during the summer. If you are traveling with children, spend time at the swimming pools, picnic areas and playgrounds available in the park.

When you’re ready to take a break from the outdoors, enjoy a delicious meal of traditional Southern cuisine from the rustic dining room of Mather Lodge. Large windows look onto the ruggedly beautiful Cedar Creek Canyon, which is lit up each evening by a dramatic sunset. Consider extending your stay in the park by booking accommodations in Mather Lodge or one of the cozy fully furnished park cabins located near the park’s popular walking trails.

Petit Jean State Park is open daily throughout the year, although some facilities are seasonal. The park is located in Conway County, 50 miles (80 kilometers) northwest of Little Rock. Drive here in about 1 hour from the state capital.

Plan a trip to see Petit Jean State Park

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
OYO Townhouse Inn Jacksonville near Little Rock Air Force Base
Guest Inn & Suites - Midtown Medical Center
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham N Little Rock-McCain Mall

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Petit Jean State Park

Mammaw's Mountaintop Retreat

Mammaw's Mountaintop Retreat

Morrilton
Mammaw's Mountaintop Retreat
Cedar Falls Motel

Cedar Falls Motel

2 out of 5
1627 Petit Jean Mountain Rd, Morrilton, AR
Cedar Falls Motel
Private and Secluded!  Enjoy the stunning view and wooded surrounding.

Private and Secluded! Enjoy the stunning view and wooded surrounding.

Morrilton
Private and Secluded! Enjoy the stunning view and wooded surrounding.
Motel 6 Morrilton, AR

Motel 6 Morrilton, AR

2 out of 5
1506 North Oak Street, Morrilton, AR
Motel 6 Morrilton, AR
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Morrilton by IHG

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Morrilton by IHG

2.5 out of 5
8 Bruce St, Morrilton, AR
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Morrilton by IHG
Super 8 by Wyndham Morrilton

Super 8 by Wyndham Morrilton

2 out of 5
1818 N Hwy 9, I-40 Exit 108, Morrilton, AR
Super 8 by Wyndham Morrilton
Lake Cabin with Fantastic View--Kayak, Swim or Fish

Lake Cabin with Fantastic View--Kayak, Swim or Fish

Perryville
Lake Cabin with Fantastic View--Kayak, Swim or Fish
Comfort Inn & Suites Russellville I-40

Comfort Inn & Suites Russellville I-40

2.5 out of 5
2714 E Parkway Drive, Russellville, AR
Comfort Inn & Suites Russellville I-40
Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Russellville

Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Russellville

2.5 out of 5
109 E Harrell Dr, Russellville, AR
Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Russellville
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Petit Jean State Park

Petit Jean State Park in Morrilton, Arkansas, offers an array of outdoor activities including hiking on scenic trails, picnicking in designated areas, and fishing in its abundant lakes. With acres of natural beauty, the park is perfect for outdoor adventures. Don’t miss out on upcoming events that showcase the park's vibrant community and culture, including jazz performances that add a unique flair to your visit.

Food and drinks

Experience the charm of Movie House Winery, located 11 miles from Petit Jean State Park. Enjoy a romantic atmosphere with entertainment, and don't miss the Victorian village nearby for a delightful culinary adventure.

Recreation

Enjoy a round of golf at Lions Den Golf Course, located 20 miles from Petit Jean State Park. This scenic course offers a perfect blend of outdoor sports vibes and relaxation, allowing you to unwind while immersing yourself in the beautiful Arkansas landscape.

Find the best attractions near Petit Jean State Park

Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, stunning scenery, or a romantic getaway, Petit Jean State Park in Morrilton, Arkansas, offers a variety of attractions for every traveler. Explore the natural beauty of the park, visit nearby Little Rock for historic treasures, and enjoy the serene lake views. With its blend of nature and history, Petit Jean is the perfect destination for an unforgettable vacation.

  • Museum of Automobiles: Just a mile from Petit Jean State Park, this unique transport museum showcases a fascinating collection of vintage cars and memorabilia. It's a family-friendly destination that celebrates automotive history and culture, making it perfect for car enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
  • Rialto Theater: Located 9 miles away, this historic arts center offers a charming glimpse into local culture with its beautifully restored architecture. Catch a live performance or film screening, and immerse yourself in the vibrant arts scene of Morrilton.
  • Holla Bend National Wildlife Refuge: Situated 11 miles from the park, this serene wildlife refuge is ideal for nature lovers seeking relaxation and outdoor excursions. Explore scenic trails, observe diverse wildlife, and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.

Best time to go to Petit Jean State Park

Visitor numbers around Petit Jean State Park is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Petit Jean State Park is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January39.6°F (4.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February42.8°F (6.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March52.0°F (11.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
April59.9°F (15.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
May68.9°F (20.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
June78.3°F (25.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July81.5°F (27.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
August80.1°F (26.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September73.9°F (23.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October62.4°F (16.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November50.5°F (10.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December43.7°F (6.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Petit Jean State Park

To save money on your trip to Petit Jean State Park, consider visiting during the off-peak months of November to January when accommodation prices are lower. Use Expedia's search tool to find budget-friendly hotels and consider combining your hotel stay with flights and activities for added savings. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can provide exclusive discounts and the chance to earn OneKeyCash for future bookings. Don't forget to explore free activities in the park, and check for campsite discounts to maximize your budget.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Petit Jean State Park are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April to June, where prices are slightly higher.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool lets you customize your travel preferences by setting your budget, choosing your desired location, and much more. You can easily arrange your results by price, displaying the most affordable hotels right at the top. Additionally, you have the option to narrow down your choices by hotel type—select the "Eco-certified" filter to find sustainable and environmentally-friendly accommodations available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Petit Jean State Park with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.