Petit Jean State Park is a beautiful state park located in central Arkansas, near Morrilton. It’s known for its stunning natural beauty, including rugged landscapes, deep valleys, and scenic overlooks.
Camping at Petit Jean
LOOP A
Great for any type of camping or trailer size. Full hook ups with mostly pull-through sites. Close to Lake Bailey, amphitheater, and fishing pier.
LOOP B
Similar to Loop A with great camping for any style. Mostly back in sites with full hook ups. Very wide sites.
LOOP C
Mostly for smaller trailers, camper vans, and tents. These sites have water and electric and are tucked into the woods. Could accommodate some larger trailers depending on site, but pads can be unlevel.
LOOP D
Mostly for tent campers. Does have water and electricity. This loop is nice and quiet as it is a little bit away from the hustle of the rest of the park.
Reservations can be make up to one year in advance and are highly recommended. NOTE: Arkansas State Parks require a full weekend reservation if you are planning on staying Friday and/or Saturday night.
Hiking Trails
Cedar Falls Trail
An absolute MUST DO hike to a waterfall! You don’t want to miss it. This is a 2 mile out-and-back trail that begins at the lodge. Be aware that you will be descending into Cedar Creek Canyon on the way there and then hiking up and out of it on the way back. The 90ft waterfall is totally worth it as well as the surrounding area. You can spend a lot of time here so enjoying it.
Rock House Cave Trail
At just 1/4 miles, this easy hike is a fun one. Shortly after the trailhead, you’ll come across the very unique turtle rocks. It’s important to stay on the trail in this area to preserve these rocks.
You’ll head into the woods after the turtle rocks to the cave…or really more the rock shelter. Look for pictographs once you arrive and be sure to take much care as the history here is so special and it would be great for many generations to come to see it as well.
Seven Hollows Trail
One of the longer trails in the park is Seven Hollows at 4.5 miles. This loop trail gives you the chance to see the diversity of the park. Be sure to stop at the Natural Bridge.
Check out the park TRAIL MAP for other hikes you may want to try while you’re there.
Areas to Explore
Bear Cave
If you’re into climbing, look no further than the Bear Cave. The gigantic rocks and narrow passageways are perfect for exploring. Know that there is not an actual cave here, but the area is super.
Overlooks
Cedar Falls, Memorial, CCC, and Petit Jean’s Grave Overlooks are all worth the short drive. If you’re there during the fall, expect beautiful colors as the leaves change. Rather hike to the overlooks? Check out the Boy Scout Trail.
Consider the Wonders is a travel blog intended for entertainment purposes only. We are not RV, travel, or hiking experts and are not making recommendations. These are our opinions and you should do your own research and make your own decisions.
Consider the Wonders is not affiliated with Petit Jean State Park or Arkansas State Parks.
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