Petit Jean State Park - map, photos and other informations

Petit Jean State Park is an Arkansas state park located in the foothills of the Ouachita Mountains, in Conway County, Arkansas. It is Arkansas's first state park and encompasses 3,471 acres (1,406 ha) of rugged natural beauty with many scenic vistas, waterfalls, and unusual rock formations. The park is considered one of the most unique places in Arkansas with its sandstone cliffs, natural bridges, caves, creeks, springs, and lush forests.

The park was created in 1923 when the bequest of Mabel and Loren Hazen provided an endowment to the state of Arkansas to purchase the 1,000 acres (405 ha) of land—originally sold to the Hazens by the Osage tribes in 1894—to create a state park. The park was dedicated at a ceremony on May 23, 1923. The following year, when the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) took the lead in developing Petit Jean, the original 1,000 acres (405 ha) increased to 3,471 acres (1,406 ha).

The CCC began the construction of roads, trails, bridges, and other park amenities as part of the nationwide effort to reduce unemployment and provide relief from the Great Depression. By 1934, the construction was complete and two lodges were built for visitors, including the picturesque Mather Lodge. The lodge was named for Stephen Mather, the first director of the National Park Service.

In addition to the lodges, the CCC also constructed picnic tables, kiosks, sandstone walls, bridges, and swimming pools. It planted many trees, including pine, sycamore, oak, and redbud, to provide a lush and vibrant landscape. In addition, it created lookout points that allowed visitors to view the wonderful scenery from high vantages.

Petit Jean State Park features paved roadways and numerous hiking trails, some of which were created by the CCC. Visitors can explore the carvings and drawings of Native Americans on Mather Lodge. Other attractions include a museum, a number of unique sandstone formations, a rock house, and a small lake. Guests can also take part in camping, fishing, swimming, canoeing, and a number of educational programs.

Today, Petit Jean State Park is a reminder of the hard work of the Depression-era CCC. It is considered a jewel of the Arkansas State Parks system and a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The park is a haven of natural beauty, offering majestic views and an escape from the everyday hustle and bustle of life.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Petit Jean State Park