Question:
I am interested in being a vendor next year....I am a fused glass artisan, and lampworker. I understand this is a juried show, and I need to know how and when to submit to be included in the 2012 event. Thank you
Answer:
Jill
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Question:
Looking for something fun to do for New Year's Eve around Fayetteville for a family with two college age kids. Any ideas?
Answer:
Here's something new for this year: http://www.lastnightfayetteville.com/. Otherwise, try checking this website, http://www.arkansas.com/events/?city=Fayetteville, and this website, http://www.experiencefayetteville.com/calendar.php for events as New Year's Eve gets closer.
Question:
Jill,
We will be visiting the area around Charleston/Fort Smith for 6 days in October. What do you recommend we do while we are in town?
Answer:
Enjoy your stay!
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Question:
We'd like to learn more about the culture, folklore, and music of the Ozarks. Can you recommend a 1-day tour of the area?
Thank you,
Linda
Answer:
Hi Linda,
If you only have one day in the Ozarks and you want to learn about the culture, folklore and music, then you should visit Mountain View, the Folk Music Capital of the World. The Ozark Folk Center State Park preserves and perpetuates all three of these along with dance. The town of Mountain View has free impromptu musical jam sessions on the courthouse square every Saturday night where everyone is welcome to bring an instrument and join in.
www.yourplaceinthemountains.com;
www.ozarkfolkcenterstatepark.com
Question:
DO you have any information on the Harrison Hot Air Balloon Festival. I am the publisher for SeaPort Magazine and would love if you have a story that we could use in the next edition. Thank you for your help.
Here is a link to the magazine
http://pubs.royle.com/publication/?m=16762&l=1
Jeremy Burke
Publisher
SeaPort Magazine
Answer:
Friday, September 09, 2011 - Sunday, September 11, 2011
City: Harrison
Region: Ozarks
Event Details:
The Festival kicks off Friday evening with over 20 balloons tethered to the ground for the exciting balloon glow. The event will continue through Sunday with several Balloon Race Competitions for all to enjoy. Experience the "Hot Air Balloon Adventure" with us!
Admission: $5 for tethered balloon rides
Question:
Was there a pamphlet or brochure for the Centennial celebration of the Arkansas State Sanatorium? I have a copy of the 50th Anniversary Issue of Sanatorium Outlook, Vol 36, Number 9.
Answer:
Charles,
I talked to a woman at the chamber and she was not sure. She gave me the number for the sanatorium museum - 479-675-5009. I've tried calling a few times but the line has been busy. I'll let you know if I find out anything about a brochure, but wanted you to have the number too.
Thanks!
Jill
Question:
Sites of interest around Fayetteville
Answer:
Here are several sites worth seeing:
Arkansas Air Museum
4290 South School Avenue
Fayetteville, AR 72701
Phone: 479-521-4947
arkairmus@aol.com
http://www.arkairmuseum.org/
GPS: 36º 1' 0.6'' N / 94º 10' 22.2'' W
Vintage aircraft, including pre-World War II racing planes in flying condition, aeronautical memorabilia, all with an emphasis on Arkansas aviation history; gift shop in historic 1943 white frame hangar
Directions: U.S. 71, Drake Field
Botanical Garden of the Ozarks
4703 North Crossover Road
Fayetteville, AR 72703-0042
Phone: 479-750-2620
www.BGOzarks.org
GPS: 0, 0
Located on 86 acres adjoining Lake Fayetteville; gardens include the Carl A. Totemeier Horticulture Center, a plaza and great lawn, nine 2,000-square-feet gardens, a greenhouse and other garden features. Various themes -- children's garden, four seasons garden, herb and vegetable garden, Japanese garden, rock and water garden, Ozark native garden, rose and perennial garden and sensory garden -- are highlighted. Wedding and reception facilities available.
Clinton House Museum
930 California Blvd.
Fayetteville, AR 72701
Phone: 479-444-0066
Toll-Free: 877-BIL-NHIL
director@clintonhousemuseum.com
www.clintonhousemuseum.com
GPS: 36.0625757, -94.1745006
1930s English-style bungalow, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, was the first home of Bill and Hillary Clinton. Showcasing the life and times of the Clintons during their years in Fayetteville, the museum features photographic and memorabilia displays, including vintage campaign materials, exhibits on loan from the William J. Clinton Presidential Center, and gift shop. Available for public tours, small meetings, receptions and weddings. New First Ladies Garden in back yard features favorite flowers of the first ladies from Martha Washington to Michelle O’Bama.
Fayetteville Farmers Market
East Mountain
Fayetteville, AR 72702
Phone: 479-236-2910
Phone: 479-409-4955
fayettevillefm@gmail.com
www.fayettevillefarmersmarket.org/
Rub elbows with area farmers and artisans on Fayetteville's downtown square every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday morning from April through October. Unique farmers market centered around the historic downtown square; award-winning landscaped terraces with an abundance of perennials and annuals; features homegrown, organic, non-organic food items, wide variety of crafts, entertainment.
Fayetteville Underground
One East Center Street
Fayetteville, AR 72701
Phone: 479-387-1534
http://www.fayettevilleunderground.com/
Four visual arts galleries with monthly openings, up to 48 shows per year; array of international, national, regional and local art
Headquarters House Museum & Garden
118 East Dickson Street
Fayetteville, AR 72701
Phone: 479-521-2970
Phone: 479-442-2358
info@washcohistoricalsociety.org
www.washcohistoricalsociety.org/
GPS: 36º 3' 58.8'' N / 94º 9' 27'' W
Greek revival style Civil War home offers living history tours by appointment only. This was the home of Judge Jonas M. Tebberts, a New Hampshire native jailed after the outbreak of the Civil War for his Unionist sympathies. The 1853 structure was Federal Colonel M. LaRue Harrison's headquarters during the April 18, 1863 attack on Fayetteville by Confederates under General W.L. (Old Tige) Cabell. The house still has one of the original doors, including the hole created by a mini ball during the skirmish.
Here are two links to more interesting sites: http://arkansas.com/attractions/ald_search_attractions.aspx?city=Fayetteville&r=Ozarks
http://www.experiencefayetteville.com/play.php
Question:
I AM COMING TO THE PETIT JEAN SWAP MEET FOR THE 1ST TIME. I WILL BE STAYING IN RUSSELLEVILLE. ANY CHANCE OF GETTING A MAP SHOWING EXACT LOCATION OF THE SWAPMEET AREA AND THE PARKING AVAILABLE? THANKS! SEE YOU ON THURSDAY!
BOB
Answer:
Bob,
I don't have anything that shows specifically where the swap meet is located on the grounds, but it's pretty much all over and easy to find.
The museum has a large parking lot, but I don't have a map of that. You can contact the museum at
info@museumofautos.com or
501-727-5427 for specific information.
Have a great time!
Jill
Question:
Where is some sites to visit like history or reinactments in NW Arkansas or other sites in state. Have lived in Ft. Smith area over 20 years and know nothing really about Arkansas but Van Buren and Ft. Smith the True Grit story. Thanks for anything suggestions first vacation without having to go visit family, but on today's economic shortcomings need something close and cheap. Thank you
Answer:
Janet,
I'll lay out some ideas for you in northwest Arkansas. But, here's a link to our History & Heritage page on www.arkansas.com if you want to look up more:
http://www.arkansas.com/things-to-do/history-heritage/. You can find additional information about the parks at
www.arkansasstateparks.com. Let me know if you have any questions or if I can help you with more information after you take a look at this.
It’s easy to get to Pea Ridge National Military Park, Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area, Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park and the Fayetteville sites listed below because they are all so close to each other.
Also, as far as re-enactments and such, take a look at our Calendar of Events on www.arkansas.com. Put in the dates you plan to take vacation to see what’s happening. You can search by city, region and date. The state parks website also has information on park programs (most of these are in the calendar of events as well).
Pea Ridge National Military Park (Pea Ridge, just outside Rogers)
Pea Ridge National Military Park preserves the site of an 1862 Civil War battle that gave the Union total control of Missouri and led directly to the federal occupation of Arkansas. During the Battle of Pea Ridge, some 26,000 soldiers clashed during the two-day battle, with Confederates under Gen. Benjamin McCulloch and Union forces under Gen. Samuel R. Curtis. The Confederate army also included about 800 Cherokees. Today, the Pea Ridge Military Park the park encompasses 4,300 acres and features a reconstructed Elkhorn Tavern, visitors center, museum, self-guided tours and a 2.5-mile segment of the "Trail of Tears." Pea Ridge is located northeast of Rogers, along U.S. 62. 479-451-8122; www.nps.gov/peri/.
Sites of interest:
• Cane Hill Cemetery, Cane Hill, Washington County
• Cane Hill Battlefield, Cane Hill, Washington County
• Headquarters House Museum, Fayetteville, Washington County
• Fayetteville Confederate Cemetery, Fayetteville, Washington County
• Fayetteville National Cemetery, Fayetteville, Washington County
Devil's Den State Park, West Fork
This National Historic District holds what has been called the most complete example of CCC park architecture. Selected as a park site in the 1930s, Lee Creek Valley provided the native wood and stone that the Civilian Conservation Corps used to craft the park's CCC/Rustic Style buildings and structures that include a native stone dam, a unique pavilion/restaurant, cabins in several styles and sizes, roads, trails, stone walls, bridges, and the iconic Yellow Rock Overlook. In 1994, when the park was being nominated for recognition by the National Registry of Historic Places, they determined that the park had so many qualifying structures that they designated the entire park as a Historic District.
Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park, Prairie Grove
Identified by the American Battlefield Protection Program as one of the most intact Civil War battlefields in the nation, Prairie Grove provides a view of a major Civil War battle just as Union and Confederate troops saw it in a day of fierce fighting on December 7, 1862. In fact, Prairie Grove was one of most famous Civil War battles in Arkansas. Exhibits and artifacts, walking tours, driving tours, monthly events and a dramatic, bi-annual reenactments of Arkansas Civil War battles reveal the details and the emotion of this last battle for the highland route to Missouri. The park has a museum and a collection of early Ozark buildings to tour, and interprets the effects of the Civil War on the civilian population in this area.
Hindman Hall (Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park)
Hindman Hall serves as the visitor center and museum for Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park. [NOTE: This museum is closed temporarily for renovation and will reopen in early summer 2011.] Visitors can watch a 12-minute orientation video about the battle, view a diorama offering glimpses of the battle at two critical moments in the fighting, and survey exhibits holding artifacts that convey the story of the Battle of Prairie Grove. Prairie Grove makes for a great Arkansas kids museum, as many attractions are located outdoors. The park is on U.S. 62 in Prairie Grove.
Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area, Rogers
In 1858, the Van Winkle mill was established as the first steam-driven saw mill in northwest Arkansas, and was located just north of present day Highway 12 on the west fork of Little Clifty Creek. During the 1870's it was the largest sawmill in the entire state. Most of the Victorian-type homes seen today in Fayetteville, Bentonville, and Eureka Springs were made from lumber cut at the Van Winkle mill. In addition, the majority of the lumber used to construct "Old Main" at the U of A came from the Van Winkle mill.
When Maj. Gen. Earl Van Dorn retreated from the battle of Pea Ridge with the majority of the Confederate Army of the West, he stopped at the Van Winkle mill to take advantage of the newly added grist feature, grinding corn to make hardtack for the soldiers.
Ozark Folk Center, Mountain View
Dedicated to the perpetuation and interpretation of the heritage of the Ozark region, the Ozark Folk Center State Park is one of America's cultural treasures. Here, musicians perform traditional acoustic tunes, gifted artisans create heirloom-quality works, and craftsmen demonstrate pioneer skills. Is your life connected to the ways of the past? Indeed it is, and at the Ozark Folk Center, you'll see, hear, and understand how.
The focal point of the Ozark Folk Center is the Craft Village, where artisans demonstrate over 20 pioneer skills and homestead crafts. Music is the other main component of the Folk Center. Ozark music pervades every corner, and performances take place in the Craft Village throughout each day during the season. At night, the Music Auditorium attracts amateur and professional musicians from miles around to sing, play and dance in the old, informal tradition of friends and neighbors gathering in the evening.
Building upon the skills of the Ozark people, the Ozark Folk Center continues its mission of perpetuation of Ozark traditions. The Folk Center conducts an active apprentice program, offers workshops throughout its operating season, holds over a dozen Elderhostel programs each year, and hosts an annual Ozark Folk School. The folk school, quickly gaining national attention, is held each spring. Intensive workshops in Ozark song, dance, and crafts are led by the nation's top-rated Ozark artisans and musicians. Workshops include mountain dulcimer, fiddle, claw-hammer banjo, southern mountain singing, photography, several workshops on herbs cooking and gardening, and 25 different craft courses.
These Ozark Folk Center workshops provide experiences you will remember for a lifetime. Many participants choose to stay on-site throughout their coursework, enjoying the Southern cooking at the Folk Center's Skillet Restaurant and staying in the cozy Cabins at Dry Creek, the park's 60 overnight studio duplex units.
For details about the park's music programs, craft demonstrations, educational workshops, events, children's activities, Elderhostel programs, dining, lodging, and other offerings, visit: www.OzarkFolkCenter.com.
Jill
Question:
Will be visiting El Dorado, first week of June.What're suggestions for must do activities for family of 5, children ages 4-14 do you have as we travel across the state from Iowa?
Answer:
Have a great trip!
Question:
Looking for activities in this part of the state for the first week in May. Any guided hikes scheduled, motorcycle tours, live theater, or festivals scheduled for this time frame?
Answer:
Question:
I am looking for info on my Grandfather Alexander middleton who was a resident in the early 50`s. i was told he died there s well. can you provide records for me ?
Answer:
I don't have actual records. You can contact the venue itself for information. Good luck.
Question:
Are you monitoring the Bella Vista fault line as well? And if so how many occurrences have there been in 2010? And is there a web site that I can see this information? Thank you.
Answer:
This website has information, and you can sign up for the Earthquake Notification Service, a free service that sends you automated notification emails when earthquakes happen in your area.
Question:
Could you tell me the dates for the Fall and Spring festivals at War Eagle, Arkansas? Thanks.
Answer:
The War Eagle Fair dates are:
Fall Fair dates: October 13 - 16, 2011
Fall Fair dates: October 18 - 21, 2012
War Eagle no longer has a spring or summer show. Here's the website
for more information:
http://www.wareaglefair.com/
However, the fair dates for War Eagle Mill (adjacent to the War Eagle
Fair; looks like it's all one big fair) are:
2011 War Eagle Mill Craft Show Dates
Spring War Eagle Mill Crafts and Culinary Arts Show
Friday May 6th to Sunday the 8th
Breakfast Starts @ 7:00am! Booths open at 8:00 am
Booths close at 5 pm, Fri. and Sat., and 4:30 pm on Sun.
Fall War Eagle Mill Arts & Crafts Fair
-Always starts the second Thursday in October-
Thursday October 13th to Sunday 16th
Breakfast Starts @ 6:30am!
Booths close at 5:30 pm, Thurs. - Sat., and 4:30 pm on Sun.
The website for more information is:
http://www.wareaglemill.com/fair.html
It's always fun to shop the fairs! Have fun!
Jill
Question:
Do you have records of a lady named Floye L Smith-Vines who died their in sept 20 1942
Answer:
Question:
where is the closest dirt oval race track to rogers arkansas?
Answer:
Here's what I know about dirt oval tracks in Arkansas. Looks like Yellville and Van Buren are the closest.
64 Speedway: This track is located in Augusta and is a 4/10 mile dirt oval track. At the track they race e-mods, mods, factory stock, hobby stock, mini stock and street stock. More information can be found at www.64speedway.us.
Drew County Speedway: This track is located in Monticello. At the track they race cruisers, hobby and street stock, IMCA sport modified, modified, and late models. For more details visit www.drewcountyspeedway.net or call 870-489-0099.
Batesville Motor Speedway: This track races modifieds, super stocks, hobbies, super stars and front-wheel drives on a three-eighths mile red clay oval. Races take place on Fridays from March until early October. For more details check out www.batesvillemotorspeedway.net or call 870-251-0011.
Beebe Speedway: This track races modifieds, street and hobby stocks, mini-stocks and hosts a special racing series on a one-fourth mile dirt oval. Races take place on Fridays at 8 p.m. from mid-March until mid-September. For details visit www.beebespeedway.com or call 501-288-5207.
Centerville Super Speedway: This track races modified stocks, street and hobby stocks and mini-stocks on a one-fourth mile clay oval. Races take place on Saturdays at 8 p.m. from mid-March until late October. For further information visit www.arkansasdirttrackin.com or call 479-970-0160.
Crawford County Speedway: This track is located near Van Buren and races modifieds, factory stocks, hobbies, mini-stocks and front-wheel drives on a three-eighths mile clay oval. Races are on Saturdays at 8 p.m. from March through September. For more details, visit www.crawfordcountyspeedway.net or call 479-474-1942.
Crowley’s Ridge Raceway: This track is located near Jonesboro. Races include late models, modified and street stocks, cruisers and four-cylinders on a one-fourth mile clay oval track. Races take place on Saturdays at 8 p.m. from mid-April to October. For more information visit www.crraceway.com or call 870-23-3141.
I-30 Speedway: This track is located in Little Rock and races IMCA modified, hobbies, street and hobby stocks on one-fourth mile clay oval. Races take place on Saturdays from mid-March until late October. For more information visit www.i-30speedway.com or call 501-455-4567.
North Central Arkansas Speedway: This track is located near Yellville and races modified stocks, cruisers, mini-stocks, super and hobby stocks on a three-eighths mile oval track. Races take place on Fridays at 8 p.m. from late March until mid-October. For more information visit www.northcentralarspeedway.com or call 870-449-LAPS.
Poinsett County Speedway: This track is located near Harrisburg and races modifieds, late models, pure and hobby stocks, and four cylinders on a three-eighths mile clay oval. Races take place on Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. from March until October. For more information visit www.poinsettcountyraceway.com or call 870-578-2224.
Riverside International Speedway: This track is located at West Memphis and races late models, Sprints, modifieds and street stocks on a one-fourth mile clay oval. Races take place on Saturdays at 7 p.m. from May through September. For further details visit www.riversideinternationalspeedway.com or call 901-508-6200.
67 Texarkana Speedway: This track is located near Texarkana and races modifieds, street and hot stocks, cruisers and bombers on a quarter-mile banked clay oval. Races take place on Saturday nights beginning in early April. For more details visit www.texarkana67speedway.com or call 870-773-0029.
Arkansas Motor Speedway: This track is located near Murfreesboro and races pure and street stocks, modifieds, sportsman and bombers on the three-eighths mile banked clay oval. Races take place on Saturdays at 8 p.m. beginning in early April. For more details visit www.arkansasmotorspeedway.com or call 870-845-5546.
Jill M. Rohrbach, travel writer
Arkansas Dept. of Parks and Tourism
Question:
I would like to know if you could help us, by telling me where to apply for grants or assistance. if you could assist us, or direct us in anyway, we would appreciate it. We are just getting this started, and before we present this to our City Council, we would like to acquire some outside information.the city, We would like to see if we could have support from the Parks and Recreation Department. Or anyone else who is available to help. My daytime phone number is 870-291-2821. Please call me for any other info you may need. I thank you in advance for your time.
Kimberly Lewis, on behalf of Happy Trails 4-H club, Izard County 4-H.
Answer:
Contact the Outdoor Recreation Grants Director Bryan Kellar at 501-682-1301.
Happy Trails to you,
Jill
Question:
I know the war eagle bridge has been closed to cars, but can you still walk the bridge, take photos on the bridge, etc?
Answer:
No you cannot walk the bridge at this time. Visit
http://www.wareaglemill.com/bridge.html for pictures of the update, and you'll see why. (Sorry it took me so long to answer. I've been on vacation.)
Question:
What part of Buffalo River would be good for a float in mid Sept. Float of about 6 hrs.
Answer:
Mel,
The middle section of the Buffalo can be floated year round. If there's been a good rain in September right before you head to the river, it is possible to float the uppper section. Here's a link to a description of the river with additional links to an outfitters directory: http://www.arkansas.com/outdoors/canoeing-rafting-kayaking/waterways/default.aspx?waterway=Buffalo+National+River
For additional information on things to see and do along the whole length of the river (Scenic Ark. 14), visit http://www.BuffaloRiverFun.com/. There are several outfitters listed on this site as well for the middle section.
Have a great trip! Floating the Buffalo is one of my favorite things to do. And just so you know, a new zip line canopy tour has opened in Ponca, which is part of the upper section of the river. If you're interested, you can find out more about it at www.buffaloriver.com. It's called the Buffalo River Canopy Tour.
Jill M. Rohrbach, travel writer
Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism
Question:
We will be in NW Arkansas on August 6th thru the 15th and what is going on in that area that week? Thanks for your help.
Answer:
Here are some of the events that week. You can search for events in a specific city by clicking City Listings, then your city of choice. From there, scroll to the bottom left of the page and you'll see events. Or go the Calendar of Events and put in your date range.
Hope this helps!
Tontitown has been celebrating its rich heritage for 112 years. This year’s Grape Festival takes place Aug. 3-7 on the festival grounds of St. Joseph Catholic Church. There will be free concerts by nationally-recognized performers each night. The fun also consists of a huge carnival with games and rides, and an arts and crafts fair. Also a tradition is the serving of homemade Italian spaghetti dinners, and grape ice cream. Visit tontitowngrapefestival.com or call 479-361-2615 for more information.
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Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area in Rogers offers a Beaver Lake Discovery Tour on Aug. 5, 8 and 12. Join a park interpreter for this scenic guided tour around beautiful Beaver Lake aboard a new 28-foot commercial pontoon vessel. The tour explores the geology of the Ozarks on Beaver Lake along with the amazing views and abundant wildlife. Space is limited. Call the visitor center at 479-789-5000 for reservations and pre-payment. The tour takes off from Rocky Branch Marina. The cost is $10 for adults, $5 for children ages 6-12, and free for children 5 and younger.
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The 57th annual Decatur BBQ Festival is packed with more than just great food. This event on Aug. 6-7 in Veteran’s Park has a fun run, poker run and car show, kids games, parade, tiny tot contest, pageant, hot air balloon rides, barbecue, and chicken dinners.
Entertainment will be provided by Bobby cole Carter Band, Ashlyn Meheny, Buddy Jewel, Dazzle ‘Em Dance, and The Flint Hill Ramblers.
Bring your lawn chairs. Call 479-752-8460 or 479-752-3912 or visit www.decaturarkansaschamber.org for details. Admission is free.
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Bargain hunters will love visiting Eureka Springs on Aug. 6-7 during the 16th Annual Yards and Yards of Yard Sales. Homes and businesses throughout the town will have items for sale. Visit www.eurekaspringschamber.com or call 800-638-7352 for details.
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Ft. Smith’s Mule and Donkey Show Festival on Aug. 6-8 is sure bet for some fun, but unusual, entertainment. There will be thousands of dollars in prizes and cash money to be competed for in Halter, Western Pleasure, English, Driving, Hitch, Gaited and Gymkhana events. The festival also has a draft horse/mule pulling contest and coon jumping contest. Along with equine show, the event has music, arts and crafts, tack vendors, and food vendors. The cost is $6 per day, or $15 for a three day pass. Visit www.muleanddonkeyshow.com or call 918-678-2088 for more information.
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August 7-8 is Confederate History Weekend at Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park in Prairie Grove. Programming includes living history activities throughout the weekend at various times and locations. You are encouraged to wander the grounds and talk with the re-enactors. The event is presented by volunteer re-enactors from the Prairie Grove Sons of Confederate Veterans Thomas C. Hindman Camp #656.
On Aug. 8 you can also view the Webb Civil War and Antique Collection. Local residents and dedicated park volunteers, Ann and C. W. Webb, will display and talk about an array of items from their personal collections of Civil War items, antique kitchen ware, and ladies' accessories.
The Burgess Civil War Collection can be viewed Aug. 22. Local Civil War enthusiast Steve Burgess will display and talk about Civil War items from his personal collection, including bullets, cannonballs, and other items found in northwest Arkansas.
Contact the park at 479-846-2990 for details.
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Enjoy a Wildflower Hike at Withrow Springs State Park in Huntsville on Aug. 7. Meet a park interpreter for a short hike at the Dogwood Trailhead. Admission is free. Call 479-559-2593 for details.
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Home of the sweetest watermelons, according to the Chamber of Commerce, the 31st annual Cave City Watermelon Festival is set for Aug. 12-14 in the city park. Activities include a pancake breakfast, car show, and parade. There will, of course, be watermelons galore. Ernie Couch & Revival will provide live music. There is also a beauty pageant and drawings for prizes. Admission is free. Visit www.cavecityarkansas.info or call 870-283-5959 for details.
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The 117th Annual Gravette Day takes place from 6 a.m. to midnight on Aug. 14. The event includes a Kiwanis pancake breakfast, classic car show, motorcycle charity poker-run, vendors and rides, parade on Main Street, chili and salsa cook-off, and more. The Hendren Aviation skydivers are a main feature. Festivities are held in Kindley City Park and admission is free. Check the Website www.gravettearkansas.com, or call 479-790-7296 for details and updates.
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Question:
We would like to take a float trip down one of the rivers in, preferably, NE Ark. We live in Ft Smith area. We will have an 8 and 13 year old with us. What river do you suggest?
Thank you
Answer:
The Spring and Eleven Point have the distinction of being the best year-round float streams because they are spring-fed and not totally dependent on rainfall for water levels.
Have fun!
Question:
Coming to Branson the first week of October. Thought we might be able to come see some fall foliage in Ark. while there. Any suggestions? Is it too early?
Answer:
Generally, significant color change begins in the
Ozarks of northern Arkansas in late September or early October. Peak color may be two or three weeks afterward. We have a Website dedicated to information about fall color. Beginning in late September you'll find updates on the changing leaves on our site. Just visit the following link to keep informed:
http://www.arkansas.com/fall-foliage/.
Thanks for your interest. Enjoy your trip!
Question:
I'm gonna be staying in Dardanelle on mount nebo is this in your area? I will have around 20 people with me looking for things to do in this area ages at from 3 yr to 72 yr old thanks for your help.
Answer:
You will, of course, find plenty to do at Mount Nebo State Park - 14 miles of trails encircle the mountain; facilities include a pool, tennis courts, picnic areas, playground, pavilions, ball field; visitor center with exhibits, store, bicycle rentals.
Also, hang gliders launch from Mount Nebo, so there’s a good chance that your group could have fun watching them.
Question:
Hi. I will be traveling thru the NW quarter of the state the 1st week of August and was hoping for some family oriented suggestions as to what we could do. There will be 3 adults and 3 kids, aged 6, 7 and 10. We love the outdoors and would love the help. Thanks
Answer:
If you like the outdoors, consider a visit to Devil's Den State Park, Withrow Springs State Park or Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area, all in the northwest Arkansas area. If you'll tell me what cities you will be visiting or be near I can be more specific with additional ideas. You can read details on these parks at www.ArkansasStateParks.com.
Jill M. Rohrbach, travel writer
Ark. Dept. of Parks and Tourism
Question:
I am in charge of organizing the 2012 annual meeting for an academic association, and would like to hold it in the midwest. We tend to hold this meeting at resorts or small cities with good dining, arts, music and recreational opportunities. We usually have ~ 125-200 people in attendance. Who should I contact to learn of options in the Arkansas Ozarks?
Thanks!
Answer:
Gordon,
Thanks for your interest in Arkansas. There are numerous locations in the Ozarks that could host your group. Our Group Travel Manager Renee Robison can provide you with details on venues and destinations. Her email is
Renee.robison@arkansas.gov.
You can also visit our group travel Website:
http://www.arkansas.com/group-travel/ for meeting and convention information. Emails links for Robison and our group travel consultant and assistant can be found on this site as well.
Jill Rohrbach
Question:
Hi I am so happy to find your contact info as I have been searching for info on a good trail for a family backpacking trip. My husband and I used to backpack quite a bit but have not in several years. Our kids love to hike but have never backpacked (ages 7 and 9). We would love to have some nice hiking days but also with option to "park" in a good spot maybe near a creek so they can play and rest. Thought about a combo hiking/canoeing trip but that might be too complicated. Flexible on dates but thinking late summer early fall. Any sugestions appreciated. Thanks.
Answer:
Devil’s Den State Park in Winslow in northwest Arkansas would be a good choice. There many trails at this park, but
Butterfield Trail is the only backpacking trail. It’s 15 miles. If you don’t want to do the whole 15 miles you could hike to Quail Valley, which is about three miles in and has a great view of a bluff line and creek. You could camp there and then hike back out the way you came, or there are trails that intersect the Butterfield Trail that you could use to shorten your hike (some are horse trails so beware the you-know-what). To hike the Butterfield you have to check in at the park visitor center and get a permit. You’ll also want to pick up a map of the trail there for $1.
Devil’s Den also has great campsites if you decide you want to spend part of your trip parked at a space with amenities you won’t find in the woods. This is a popular park and weekends fill up fast. So call three to four weeks in advance to reserve a campground if you’re interested in that.
479-761-3325;
ArkansasStateParks.com
Also in the northwest,
Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area’s Pigeon Roost Trail would be a good beginner trail for your kids. The 8.5 mile loop is for overnight use. Primitive camping is allowed at five designated campsites only. These campsites, on a ridge overlooking Beaver Lake, are available on a first-come basis. Contact the park to determine if there will be a campsite available. The trail does have several hills to climb.
479-789-5000;
ArkansasStateParks.com
You might also consider the
Buffalo National River area between Erbie and the Highway 7 bridge. I believe
Ozark campground is about halfway. It costs $10 per day and there are 35 sites available on a first come, first serve basis. Water is available nearby.
Tyler Bend Visitor Center Information - 870-439-2502
I’m including links so you can get more details. Happy Backpacking! - Jill
Question:
My family and I will be spending a few days in Jasper during Memorial Day Weekend. Do you have any events or suggestions for that area for that weekend?? Thank You!
Answer:
I can’t find any specific events for that weekend. But I do suggest you take time to see the elk herd that roams the Buffalo National River valley. Best times for viewing are dawn and dusk. Jasper’s downtown square has some nice shopping for antiques and art. There is, of course, a ton to do in the outdoors from hiking to canoeing. I recommend visiting these places:
Question:
My husband and I are planning a trip to Arkansas on May 1 - wanted to take the Talimena scenic drive - where is a good place to start out. Wanted to visit Mena, Fayetteville - I'm all about seeing pretty scenery.
Thanks,
Answer:
From Mena, the Talimena Scenic Drive/Ark. 88 Scenic Byway travels northwest and quickly enters the Ouachita National Forest, climbing Rich Mountain, Arkansas's second highest peak at 2,681 feet, and passing through Queen Wilhelmina State Park on its way to the Oklahoma border 18 miles to the west.
You could start at Queen Wilhelmina State Park. Then take Highway 71 north to Forth Smith. Here you could take some time to explore Wild West history at places like the National Historic Site. You can continue north to Fayetteville. You’ll love the beauty of Interstate 540 that leads you into Fayetteville. Or, instead of turning on 540, travel one more mile to Alma where you can take old Highway 71, another designated scenic route, over the Boston Mountain to Fayetteville. Stop on top of the mountain at Ozark Folkways Heritage Center to stretch your legs and view the works of local artists.
Here’s a link to attractions, lodging and dining in those three cities. Look it over and let me know if you want/need more information on anything. I’d be happy to get into more detail based on your interests.
Thanks and enjoy your trip!
Question:
I've taken river trips in the 70's with my parents from Kerr in OK to Dardenelle where we spent the night. Went back the next day. There were marinas along the river for gas and refreshment and a lodge on the water at Dardenelle. Thinking about taking another trip with several families and wondering if the amenities are still available.
Answer:
There are many amenities in that area and I'm sure you'll enjoy the trip! You can also contact the Arkansas River Valley Tri-Peaks Tourism Association for details.
Arkansas River Valley Tri-Peaks
101 North Johnson Street
Clarksville, AR 72830
Phone: (479) 754-6543
Toll-Free: 800-564-6508
http://www.arvtripeaks.com/
Question:
my son wants to get married in Eureka Springs-at the least expensive (or free)place-where do you suggest
Answer:
From the second site you can contact Eureka Springs if you need additional help. There are numerous wedding locations in this great town, and I'm sure you can find something to fit your budget.
You can contact City Hall at 479-253-9703 to find the cost of a marriage license. I don't think it's much. And they may be able to tell you if there are free locales such as at a city park or spring.
Question:
I will be coming down in late April on a motorcycle and want to take Hwy 7 out of Harrison any areas that you can tell me about to vist or how to get info.
Thank You
Answer:
Gerald,
Here's a link to information on Scenic 7 Byway: http://arkansas.com/things-to-do/scenic-drives/arkansas-scenic-7.aspx
You'll especially love the Buffalo National River area. If this link and information isn't enough, tell me how far you plan to travel on Ark. 7 and I'll be happy to provide more details.
Shopping, lodging and dining can be found in the byway's major cities: El Dorado, Camden, Arkadelphia, Hot Springs, Russellville, Jasper and Harrison, and in smaller communities along the way. Lodges, cabins and campgrounds are available in the various state parks listed below under "Major Area Attractions." Camping is also available at U.S. Forest Service recreation areas within the Ouachita and Ozark national forests and at U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' recreation areas on DeGray Lake, Lake Nimrod and Lake Dardanelle on the Arkansas River. Private resorts, cabins and other lodging, as well as dining options, are also available.
MAJOR AREA ATTRACTIONS:
Arkadelphia
Arkansas Museum of Natural Resources
Buffalo National River
Camden
DeGray Lake
DeGray Lake Resort State Park
El Dorado
Garvan Woodland Gardens
Harrison
Holla Bend National Wildlife Refuge
Hot Springs
Hot Springs National Park
Jasper
Lake Catherine State Park
Lake Dardanelle State Park
Lake Nimrod
Lake Ouachita State Park
Mount Nebo State Park
Mystic Caverns
Ouachita National Forest
Ouachita National Recreation Trail
Ozark Highlands Trail
Ozark National Forest
Russellville
Question:
What is the highest point in the state?
Answer:
The highest peak in the state at 2,753 feet is Mount Magazine, located near Paris in the Arkansas River Valley. Mount Magazine Scenic Byway leads travelers across the top of Mount Magazine. It includes a 20.4-mile segment of Ark. 309 south of Paris to Havana in Logan County, Arkansas. The Byway passes Cove Lake Recreation Area and the Cove Lake Trail. From the overlooks, visitors can see hundreds of miles of beautiful forested lands and mountains.
Mount Magazine State Park is located atop the mountain and features a luxury 60-room lodge with a grand lobby to welcome guests, an indoor swimming pool, Skycrest Restaurant. conference center, meeting rooms, fitness center and gift shop. Thirteen full-service cabins with fireplaces, a bathroom for each bedroom, and wrap-around covered porches with outdoor hot tubs are located next to the lodge. All lodging facilities have views of the Petit Jean River Valley and Blue Mountain Lake below. The park visitor center has interactive exhibits. Camping sites have water, electric, and sewer hookups and new bathhouse with hot showers.
Question:
Where is a good place to go rappelling and rock climbing in Arkansas?
Answer:
Most of the quality rock climbing and bouldering in Arkansas is in the western and northern regions of the state, where the Ozark and Ouachita mountain ranges are located. Check out this rock climbing page, http://www.arkansas.com/outdoors/rock-climbing/, for specifics.