Summer in Arkansas is made for adventure, with wild landscapes that invite exploration. These five off-the-beaten-path experiences showcase the wilder side of summer in “The Natural State.”
Scuba Diving at Beaver Lake
Whether you're preparing for a tropical getaway or simply eager to try something new, Beaver Lake offers a few local spots to explore the underwater world. Scuba Park at Beaver Lake features easy shore entry, a variety of sunken attractions, and plenty of fish to observe, making it an ideal place to practice your skills. For gear rentals and certification courses, visit Beaver Dam Dive Shop & Resort in nearby Eureka Springs. Ditch the tanks and explore the world of freediving with Freedive NWA in Rogers.
Cavern Tours
War Eagle Cavern, home to Arkansas’s largest natural cavern entrance, offers a range of guided tours for every level of adventure. In addition to the classic one-hour tour, visitors can explore cave wildlife on the After Hours Bat Tour or venture off the beaten path—crawling and climbing through hidden passages—on the Wild Cavern Tour. Visit wareaglecavern.com for tour details and availability.
Backpacking Along the Pigeon Roost Trail at Hobbs State Park
One of the best ways to trek through Arkansas’ largest state park is along the Pigeon Roost Trail. Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area is 12,056 acres of natural beauty, offering primitive camping along the 9-mile Pigeon Roost Trail.
Siloam Springs Kayak Park
Siloam Springs Kayak Park offers a refreshing way to spend a day outdoors. Visitors can bring their own kayak or inner tube and enjoy two engineered rapids rated Class I to II, suitable for both beginners and experienced paddlers. The park also features a family swimming area, a climbing boulder, and picnic spots. It’s a popular destination on weekend afternoons, and a $10 parking fee is in place on weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Diamond Digging at Crater of Diamonds State Park
Although it requires a bit more planning with a four-hour drive from Rogers, Crater of Diamonds State Park in Murfreesboro offers a rare opportunity to hunt for real diamonds in their original volcanic source—and keep whatever you discover. With over 35,000 diamonds unearthed since becoming a state park in 1972, plus camping, hiking, and a seasonal water park, it’s a truly one-of-a-kind summer adventure in Arkansas.
These five off-the-beaten-path experiences showcase the wilder side of summer in “The Natural State.”