When it comes to states that border the Mississippi River, one of the most acclaimed river systems in the world, much attention is given to Louisiana and Minnesota as well as other states that line the Mighty Mississippi’s banks. However, there is one state in particular that often goes overlooked, yet has much to offer in terms of its unique access to nature’s sublime beauty, rich culture and abundance of activities that abound along the river’s formidable waves — Arkansas.
Straddling the large, swollen waters of the Mississippi in the south, Arkansas is a slice of the United States that comprises part of the moist and lush Lower Mississippi Valley, where humid air hangs everywhere in the summer. With its bayous, rivers and wetlands, Arkansas has become a hot spot for exploring deep and bold water trails. This variety of life is a huge draw for adventurers, naturalists and of course, fishermen. Numerous people flock to the state to immerse themselves between both the headwaters and Delta of the Mississippi and take in its natural splendor.
The mighty river has long been a part of Arkansas’s economic engine, with some of the biggest cities in the state such as Memphis, Arkansas and Little Rock laid directly across its shores. This makes it easier for visitors and locals alike to take in what the natural wonders of the region have to offer. Arkansas has established many river towns which, in addition to local river-related economic activity, also house a wealth of natural and cultural treasures for visitors and locals alike to explore.
The most popular tourist activities Arkansas’s portion of the Mississippi offer include widespread fishing, such as bass and catfish, as well as hunting wild quail and snipe. Kayak and canoe tours are widely available throughout the region, providing adventurers the chance to take in the awesome beauty of the Mighty Mississippi. There are also tunnels, recessed hollows and partially submerged snags throughout the river, providing an extra degree of challenge to wide-eyed candidates.
In addition to these aquatic activities,Arkansas’ abundance of outdoors activities — camping, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, wildlife watching and more — make for an adventure lover’s dream getaway. There are several state parks within Arkansas’ portion of the Mississippi River, allowing for all sorts of recreational activities, from canoeing and swimming to hunting and exploring the unique wildlife.
Arkansas’s part of the Mississippi provides ample entertainment, both recreational and educational, for visitors and locals alike. The wealth of outdoor experiences in conjunction with the state’s many hotspots make Arkansas a perfect destination to explore the Mighty Mississippi River and its surrounding wildlife.
Scenic Points
With its scenery, natural beauty and vast array of activities ranging from culture to nature, Arkansas on the Mississippi River serves as an essential component of the “Great River Road” – an international road trip route that follows most of the Mississippi river’s length. But the essential quality shared by Arkansas’ portion of the Mississippi is its natural beauty, with borders composed of an array of vast and exquisite landscape points, including dramatic bluff lines, sandbars and countless unique sights within the state’s portion of the river.
For the curious traveler, there are plenty of scenic points partnered with wondrous history along the Arkansas side of the river. Whether it’s a curious history enthusiast visiting one of many historical sites along the route like Pine Bluff – the state’s second-largest city, as well as a historic Civil War fort – or an ambitious sightseeing voyage, Arkansas’ portion of the Mississippi River has no shortage of adventure.
From unspoiled wetlands, national monuments, and a diverse selection of top-tier fishing spots, Arkansas has a great deal to offer along its infamous side of the Mississippi River. Whether you’re searching for a secluded weekend getaway or a desired destination for a thorough exploration of the riverbanks, Arkansas has something for every type of outdoorsy seeker.
Homestay Accommodations
When it comes to travel to its portion of the Mississippi River, Arkansas isn’t short on the number of homestay accommodations. Whether you’re looking for a multi-night refuge, or perhaps a day spot for sightseeing or fishing,Arkansas has plenty of beauty to offer.
These homestays come in many forms — be it a hotel, an RV park, a park or even a campground. The array of housing options available to those looking to explore Arkansas’s portion of the Mighty Mississippi include some of the most stunning of landscapes, whether it be a classic cliff overlooking the river, or a river campground where one could stay in the comfort of a cabin or tent with access to the woods. Regardless of the type of stay, Arkansas’s portion of the Mississippi River atmosphere is directly connected with the breathtaking beauty that envelops the area, providing a unique and beautiful place to stay.
On top of these options, Arkansas offers a diversity of cultural experiences to its visitors along the Mississippi River. Whether historic sights and activities, delicious culinary delights, or amazing locales, Arkansas has a host of adventure experiences to offer. Those seeking a truly unique escape can find it in the form of a stay at a local bed and breakfast, surrounded by the state’s unparalleled river culture.
Wildlife and Flora
The most noticeable of Arkansas’s wildlife lies beyond the Mississippi, but that doesn’t mean the river itself isn’t teaming with it — in fact, the state’s portion of the Mississippi boasts quite the stunning array of species. From the river’s violent, churning waters, to its calmer side, there’s an entire universe of opportunities for wildlife watching.
Crowds flock to the river’s tributaries in search of the majestic bald eagle, as well as the ever-elusive river otter. Beavers, mink, muskrats and other rodents offer an interesting wildlife presence further down the waters, while spotted and largemouth bass, catfish, panfish, walleye and crappie are widely hunted by enthusiastic fishermen. There are even sightings of the rarer alligator gar, like those who prowl the depths of the Old Man Bayou near Arkansas.
In addition to all sorts of wildlife, Arkansas’s portion of the Mississippi River boasts a massive collection of flora. The variety of riverside plants create a stunning view, as trees like willows, honey locusts, oaks and cottonwoods hover alongside, creating a delicate and vibrantly colored canopy. Larger plants like rivercane, wild indigo and fishlace plants also occupy the waters, while aquatic grasses like water stargrass, maidencane and wild celery occupy the muddy and salty floors near the shore for the hungry, living creatures.
For many, the unparalleled beauty of the wild is truly enhanced by the presence of Arkansas’ portion of the Mississippi River. The combination of beauty and diversity is what makes the Arkansas side of the river such an integral part of exploring the Mighty Mississippi — so getting on the river in Arkansas is an ideal way to create an incredible, natural experience no one will forget!
Arts and Culture
The beauty of the Mississippi River is eclipsed only by the cultural significance to its many communities. Arkansas has a deep relationship to the arts and culture of its Mississippi River-borne society, where sights of our ancestors’ past are still visible through reminiscing artifacts and buildings. Notable buildings of influence include Jonesboro High School, the Quapaw Tower and the White River Bridge, all symbols of endurance in the face of Arkansas’ industrial age of river livelihood.
More recent, however, are the sights observed in Eudora, Arkansas, which is home to the Arkansas Delta Music Center. This creative, non-profit organization is committed to keeping the Delta music and culture alive and encourages musicians to visit, composing and performing music for the wider world to enjoy. The Arkansas Delta region is also home to the state’s official musical style, the Blues, which has been an essential part of the state’s culture since the postbellum era.
In addition to its music and arts, Arkansas’ Mississippi River-borne society is enriched with incredible folk stories, many of which are still shared through generations of families that have called the region home. From personal tales of the Civil War to colorful yarns of the townspeople, visitors to Arkansas’ part of the Mississippi River can discover a world of captivating tales telling of people who toil, live and die while holding on to their values and hoping far better days.
Whether you’re looking for an adventure down a river, back in time, or to the depths of its arts and culture, Arkansas has something to offer to everyone looking to explore the Mighty Mississippi’s deepest secrets. Whether fishing, camping or simply sightseeing, Arkansas is an inexhaustible source of beautiful sights, sounds, and stories waiting for you to discover!
