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Ouachitas Must-See Attractions
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Crater of Diamonds State Park - North America抯
largest diamond (40.23 carats) and more than 70,000 other
diamonds have been found in a field south of Murfreesboro since
farmer John Huddleston discovered the first such gems there in
1906. Now the eroding surface of a volcanic pipe located about
three miles south of Murfreesboro is preserved as Crater of
Diamonds State Park, the world抯 only site where, for a small
fee, anyone can dig for diamonds and keep what they find.
The park抯 visitors center offers an audio-visual presentation
giving tips on diamond hunting, a display of diamonds in the
rough, and exhibits detailing the site抯 history and geology. The
park also has a campground, hiking trail, a picnic and play
area, and Diamond Springs, a water park. On Ark. 301 near
Murfreesboro 870-285-3113.
DeGray Lake Resort State Park - Arkansas's only
resort state park is located about eight miles north of
Arkadelphia on 13,800-acre DeGray Lake, formed when the Caddo
River was dammed in 1972. Located on an island and reached by a
short causeway, the park's 96-room lodge features a spa,
swimming pool, well-equipped exercise room, convention
facilities, and a full-service restaurant. Other park facilities
include a challenging 7,200-yard golf course with pro shop, a
riding stable, campgrounds and hiking trails. Visitors can avail
themselves of rental watercraft at the park marina to take
advantage of the lake's fishing or can launch for free their own
craft. Water-skiing, sailing, jet-skiing and pleasure boating
are other popular DeGray activities. Also located on the lake
are a private resort and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
recreational areas, most of which have campsites. Eight miles
north of Arkadelphia off Scenic 7 Byway 501-865-2801.
Garvan Woodland Gardens - Located on the shores of
Lake Hamilton, this 210-acre botanical garden contains the
Oriental-influenced 揋arden of the Pine Wind� with stream
courses, waterfalls, stone bridges, native and Asian plantings.
Other features are 揇affodil Hill,� a welcome center, gift shop,
canopy bridge, bird sanctuary. Postcard-quality photo
opportunities. 550 Arkridge Rd., 12 minutes from
I-30. 800-366-4664.
Hot Springs National Park - A film and exhibits in
the Fordyce Bathhouse Visitors Center located on historic
Bathhouse Row tell how a remarkable array of thermal springs in
a valley of the Ouachita Mountains prompted Congress to protect
the area in 1832. Learn how the town of Hot Springs earned a
reputation as 揟he American Spa.� Thermal baths and massages are
available on the Row at the Buckstaff Bathhouse, and at other
locations.The park also offers scenic drives and a campground.
Central Ave. in Hot Springs. 501-624-3383.
Magic Springs/Crystal Falls - Among more than 80
attractions and amusement rides at this combination theme and
water park are five exciting roller coasters, including the
legendary Arkansas Twister, The Gauntlet, a 2,260-foot
suspended, looping coaster that reaches 110 feet high, and the
Plummet Summit, a new $2 million chute-and-splash boat ride. The
beautifully landscaped water park features a 350,000-gallon wave
pool, thrilling water slide complex, relaxing lazy river,
children抯 activity pool and a family splash zone. The park抯
amphitheater hosts a summer series of musical concerts. U.S. 70
immediately east of Hot Springs. 501-624-0100.
Queen Wilhelmina State Park/Talimena Scenic Byway -
Beginning at Mena, the scenic byway stretches for 54 miles along
crests of the Ouachita Mountains before terminating at Talihina,
Oklahoma. The route offers numerous vistas from atop some of the
highest peaks between the Rocky and Appalachian mountains. Along
the route atop Rich Mountain, Arkansas抯 second highest peak,
lies Queen Wilhelmina State Park with a lodge, restaurant,
camping, picnic areas and hiking trails. The 192-mile Ouachita
National Recreation Trail passes through the park. Ark. 88 near
Mena. 479-394-2863.
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