The natural beauty of Petit Jean Mountain inspired the creation of Arkansas's
state parks system when Petit Jean State Park was established in 1923. Petit
Jean State Park mirrors the mountain's rugged beauty with its rustic, native log
and stone facilities constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the
1930s.  The
focal point of the park's impressive CCC/Rustic Style architecture is historic
Mather Lodge, a 24-room hostelry on the bluff of Cedar Creek Canyon. A meal at
the lodge restaurant guarantees a breathtaking view including a dramatic sunset
each evening.
Near Mather Lodge are 33 fully-equipped cabins (21 with kitchens), many of
which share the same bluff. Cedar Creek Canyon is the work of Cedar Creek, which
cascades as a spectacular 95-foot waterfall. Upstream, a rock dam forms Lake
Bailey, 170 acres for fishing and pedal boating. A boathouse offers a snack bar,
boat rentals, and supplies for sale during summer.
Park campsites (127 sites including Premium D, Premium B, Preferred B, and
Standard B sites) are situated near Lake Bailey and in secluded woodlands.
The park also offers a Group Camp Area, a Rally-style Area, two Rent-A-Camp
sites, and two Rent-A-Tepee sites. The park airport offers five Fly-in Premium D
campsites (for tents only).
Petit Jean State Park is Arkansas's only state park that features its own
airport. Petit Jean's airport is open for daytime use only. For information
about the park airport or fly-in campsites, call (501) 727-5441.
The park also offers picnic areas, playgrounds, pavilions, a recreation hall,
launch ramp, pool, and tennis courts.
Hiking trails lead visitors along forests, canyons, streams, meadows, and
mountainsides. Park interpreters host programs and special events highlighting
the resources of this unforgettable state park. Petit Jean Mountain is also home
to the Museum of Automobiles, a showcase of antique and classic cars.
For westbound travelers on I-40, take I-40 Exit #108 at Morrilton and travel
nine miles south on Ark. 9, then go 12 miles west on Ark. 154 to the park. For
eastbound travelers on I-40, take Exit #81 at Russellville and travel Ark. 7
south 10 miles to Centerville, then go 16 miles east on Ark. 154 to the park.
Contact Information
1285 Petit Jean Mountain Road
Morrilton, AR 72110
GPS: 35° 7’ 36” N / 92° 55’ 31.8” W
Email: petitjean@arkansas.com
To reach the park office or make campsite reservations call (501) 727-5441.
To make lodge or cabin reservations call 1-800-264-2462 (V/TT).
www.petitjeanstatepark.com
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