Petit Jean State Park

Petit Jean State Park

Petit Jean State Park was created in 1923, with the scenic beauty of Petit Jean Mountain serving as its inspiration. Civilian Conservation Corps workers during the 1930s erected the park’s lovely wood and stone buildings. The historic Mather Lodge, a 24-room lodge perched above Cedar Creek Canyon, is a major draw. The Lodge is a wonderful place to stay, and its beautiful CCC/Rustic Style architecture is a bonus.

Petit Jean State Park’s lodge restaurant has excellent food and breathtaking views, especially after sunset. There are 33 comfortable cottages next to Mather Lodge, several of which share the same bluff. A rock dam upstream has created Lake Bailey, a 170-acre body of water perfect for fishing and pedal boats.

Things To Do At Petit Jean State Park

At Petit Jean State Park, you can have a great time! Stay in cozy cabins or go camping under the stars. If you prefer more comfort, the lodge is a great option.

Explore the park’s trails and enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way.

Camping at Petit Jean State Park

Campsites of various types are available in the park. There are 127 campsites to select from, ranging from “Premium D” to “Premium B” to “Preferred B” to “Standard B,” and all of them are either close to Lake Bailey or tucked away in the woods. The park also features a Rally-style Area, two Rent-A-Camp sites, two Rent-A-Tepee sites, and a Group Camp Area.

The park’s airstrip offers five Fly-in Premium D campsites for individuals who prefer to arrive by air. Campers who wish to travel to the lake, relax in the woods, or spend time with friends and family will love the park.

Lodge at Petit Jean State Park

Pine walls and ceilings give the rooms at the Lodge a wonderful, rustic feel. The seamless integration of natural beauty and contemporary amenities will leave guests spellbound. Each room has a private bathroom, cable TV with satellite channels, an alarm clock, a coffee maker, an iron, and an ironing board. Please be aware that there are no in-room telephones. The Lodge is a great place to stay if you’re seeking peace and quiet or a jumping-off point for exciting outdoor activities.

Trails at Petit Jean State Park

Cedar Falls Trail

The Cedar Falls Trail is the most travelled path in the park. It begins beside Mather Lodge and continues to a breathtaking waterfall farther down the trail. Although the hike is just approximately two miles long, it starts by descending into a canyon, so remember that you will have to ascend back out of the canyon on the return journey. It is unquestionably worthwhile to make the ascent, particularly when a significant amount of precipitation has fallen, and the waterfall is in full force.

Seven hollows trail

This is one of our favourite walks in the park but also one of our favourites in the state. The Seven Hollows walk is a circle that is around 4.5 miles long and will take you through some breathtaking natural landscapes, including bluff shelters, stone arches, and box canyons.

Cedar Creek outdoor pathway

The old log cabin that serves as Cedar Creek’s trailhead is 1.2 miles away. This hike is especially beautiful when the water is running because it is close to Cedar Creek and is just above the falls.

Cabins at Petit Jean State Park

Petit Jean State Park’s housekeeping cabins feature everything you need to unwind, including a couch bed, fireplace, full kitchen, bathroom with shower, air conditioning/heating, and cable TV. Kitchens have dishes, pots, pans, utensils, a range, refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, toaster, blender, iron, and ironing board.

 

Bedding—blankets, pillows, towels, and linens—is free. The patio has a barbecue and picnic table for dining beneath the stars.

Address: 1285 Petit Jean Mountain Rd, Morrilton, AR 72110, United States

Open-Closes: 8 am-5 pm

Phone: +1 501-727-5441

Email: petitjean@arkansas.com

Established: 1923

Area: 3,471 acres (14.05 km2)

Management: Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism

Author

  • Mark Tony

    I'm an avid traveler and storyteller with an insatiable passion for exploring the world's hidden gems. Join me on a virtual journey as I weave tales of cultural immersion, breathtaking landscapes, and the serendipitous moments that make travel an art form. Let's embark on this adventure together, where every page is a new destination discovered.