Natural State (Arkansas)

Member Name: sagregson

Product:	Arkansas
Date:	03/04/02 (48 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Scenery, Relaxation

Disadvantages: Not for everyone

Arkansas may be famous for it's politcal history, it's the home state of Bill Clinton and it's Capital Little Rock became famous in 1957 when an attempt was made to ban nine black children from the segregated Central High School and the nationalguard was called in to escort them into the school.

However Arkansas has two of the most beutiful and relatively unknown national parks. Hot Springs National Park has springs of 143 degrees that mix with natural reservoirs to create an ideal temperature. The park is nestled between two peaks in the Ouachita Mountains, about an hour south of Little Rock. Lodging and bathing costs rise to match the tourist demand between february and April. Baths were priced at around $13 to $16 in 2000 with the motels moderately priced at around $25 but this apparently doubles between February and April. Camping facilites are available including at two nearby state parks.


The OZARKS are another of Arkansas's little treaures. The once majestic Ozark mountains have softened into attractive wooded hills and limestone buffs with springs and rivers abundant. The area is perfect for outdoor recreation like white water canoeing, fishing, hiking, cycling and camping and offers some outstanding scenery. The Ozark National Forest is bound by the White River to the east and the Buffalo National River on the west. The forest contains Blanchard Springs Cavern, Cove Lake and Mount Magazine which is the highest point in the state.

The summers in this area are very hot and litterally swarming with mosquitos. I found that the best time to vist is in august or september when it becomes cooler, drier and the mosquitos have gone. In October the autumn foilage is reputed to be outstanding.

Overall this area is for people who need to get away from it all so don't expect it to be full of nightlife and entertainment. If you love the outdoors or just need to recharge than this is one of the best
places in the states.

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