One of the nation's best kept secrets, Arkansas State Parks, is no secret to her residents! The parks are celebrating their 75th Anniversary, and are frequented by young and old alike. Here, I will discuss three state park destinations for your next vacation or mini-vacation. Grab your camping gear, and let's go!

Because of its location, Petit Jean State Park, is one of the most frequented sites in the Natural State. Located in Conway County in Central Arkansas, this park truly has something for everyone! The scenery is spectacular: pull over when you reach the entrance to the park and gaze at the Arkansas River Valley below. Bring your camera and your binoculars! In addition to its beauty, there is a lot to do: swimming, fishing, camping, hiking. Learn about the history of the mountain, its mystery and legends, from a park interpreter. Special programs are planned periodically for youth and adults alike. Besides camping, there is a lodge with hotel-style accommodations and a restaurant available. This park is open year-round, and guarantees a good time will be had by all!

Lake Dardanelle is a smaller park, located in Russellville in the Arkansas River Valley Region. Site to nationally renowned fishing tournaments, the lake is a popular destination for day trips and camping. The visitors' center hosts films which detail the history of the region, as well as the wildlife and environmental efforts of the park. The lake's waters are used to cool Unit 1 of ANO's (Arkansas Nuclear One) nuclear energy operation on its shores. Warmer temperatures make this lake ideal for varied wildlife. One of the best things about Lake Dardanelle is the activities. Regular party barge tours of the lake leave from the boating dock, and these tours are free. The interpreters will drive you around and explain the operation of the park, the maintenance of the lake, and the function of the dam on the Arkansas River which created the lake. If you're very lucky, you'll catch a glimpse of bald eagles which winter near the lake's shores each year. Recently, a pair of eagles chose to stay, and hatch their eggs and raise their young here.

Mt. Nebo State Park, also located in the Arkansas River Valley, is a popular destination for day trips and overnight stays. In addition to camping, the cute cabins feature all the ammenities modern travelers prefer. Mt. Nebo hosts an annual chicken fry with arts and crafts booths and contests. The bluff on the eastern end of the mountain, Sunrise Point, is a popular taking off point for hang-gliders. It is interesting to watch the hang-gliders take off!

The possibilities in the Arkansas State Parks are endless. You will build lasing memories with your loved ones while vacationing at one of our state parks. Grab your camera and head on out to affordable adventures in the Natural State. We'll see y'all there.

Arkansas State Parks on the World Wide Web:

http://www.arkansasstateparks.com/