3 Amazing State Parks to Visit Near Bentonville, AR

Located in the northwestern corner of the state, not far from the Tri-State Marker between Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Missouri, the city of Bentonville, AR, is an excellent base to explore the different state parks and natural attractions that the region has to offer. Whether you are into hiking, swimming, wildlife watching, mountain biking, or camping, we have put together some great destinations you should check out.

1. Big Sugar Creek State Park

Encompassing an area of over 2,000 acres, Big Sugar Creek State Park was established in 1992 and is a popular hiking destination among visitors from all over the region. This public recreation area is managed by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources and was originally created to preserve a part of the Elk River that runs through the area. With rugged landscapes, thick woodlands, and sunny prairies, Big Sugar Creek State Park is a photographer’s paradise all year round.

The entrance of Big Sugar Creek State Park is located about 27 miles north of downtown Bentonville, making it possible to reach it in less than 45 minutes by car along route US-71. Although this nature reserve can be easily visited as part of a day trip, there is a nearby campground where you can set up your tent or park your RV if you want to explore the area for more than a day.

2. Grand Lake State Park

With a surface area of 46,000 acres, Grand Lake is one of the largest bodies of water in the state of Oklahoma and a prime destination for several water sports including boating, fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. Located along its northern and eastern shores, Grand Lake State Park is the nature reserve that provides public access to the lake, featuring six different areas with facilities including campsites, boat ramps, fishing areas, swimming beaches, and hiking trails.

The nearest section of Grand Lake State Park for Bentonville Locals is the Honey Creek Area, which is located along the eastern shores of the lake. Getting here takes a little over an hour by car, driving northwest along route AR-72 for about 50 miles. This area is open all year round and features a large campground with almost 50 RV parking sites and 100 tent spots, as well as picnic tables, a dump station, and an outdoor swimming pool.

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