Clark County between lake, river and history

Clark County offers an itinerary that can be shaped around the lake and river or regional history. DeGray Lake is one of Arkansas’s five so-called “Diamond Lakes” and is described as a 13,800-acre “jewel.” Around the lake are 18 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers campgrounds and recreation areas. The Caddo River feeds the lake. The waterscape and historic sites offer two distinct focuses when choosing things to do.

On the water: paddling and wildlife watching

The Caddo River is used for canoeing and tubing. In Caddo Valley, there is access to this river, which connects to the Ouachita River. The Islets Cove Paddle Trail is a three-mile loop through quiet coves and along wooded banks. The route features diverse flora and fauna and also offers good opportunities for wildlife watching.

Bike trails and natural landscapes

For mountain bikers, the Iron Mountain Trail south of DeGray Lake offers more than 24 miles of well-maintained, relatively flat bike trails. Paddling and biking are two different options: a loop on the water or trails for mountain bikers.

Terre Noire Natural Area is one of the highest-quality remaining blackland prairie and woodland complexes in the state of Arkansas. From early spring through fall, visitors can see a wide variety of wildflowers there. Terre Noire thus offers a clear seasonal consideration for trip planning.

Cemetery, churches and history

Historic Bozeman Cemetery is considered one of the most scenic places to visit in Clark County. Some of the county’s early settlers are buried there. The Clark County Historical Association regularly leads tours of the cemetery. They cover the early settlers, as well as their lives and times in Clark County. Check the tour schedule before your trip.

The first Methodist church organized and built in Clark County was established in Hollywood in 1812. The present building of Hollywood Methodist Church was dedicated on June 21, 1925, and remained in use until it was purchased by the Clark County Historical Association in August 2020. Clark County Courthouse also has a documented historical designation: it was added to the National Register of Historic Places on December 1, 1978.

Museum and market in Arkadelphia

The Clark County Historical Museum in Arkadelphia is housed in a historic train station that was also used by AMTRAK. Its interpretive exhibits cover Caddo artifacts, the Civil War, World War I and World War II, as well as rural life, education, transportation and communication. Historical events are presented alongside everyday life and regional development.

The Clark County Farmer's Market in Arkadelphia offers fresh produce, local honey and handmade goods. It operates seasonally on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m.; check the hours before your trip.

Discover more destinations

Arkadelphia, Caddo Valley, Baxter County, Hot Spring County, Jackson County, St. Francis County, Grant County, Dallas County

For the main travel overview: Arkansas.