MacKenzie Dayne Hall

Seven adventurous activities for springtime in the Natural State

STAFF WRITER: MACKENZIE HALL

The grass is turning greener, daffodils are blooming, the honey bees are buzzing and the Southern humidity is beginning to make its appearance once again. Spring brings new excitement, a familiarity and hope that the summer months are just around the corner. Here are seven activities to enjoy the spring season.

1. Go floating on the Caddo River

As we draw closer to April and May, floating season is upon us. Take a trip down the Caddo River, floating your cares away in a kayak, canoe or inner tube. For rentals, visit Caddo River Rats Kayak and Tube Rental in Caddo Valley or schedule an appointment at the CRAG by calling (870) 245-5268 or emailing seatons@obu.edu.

2. Hike and camp in the Ouachita National Forest

For a quick weekend getaway, gather up your friends and take the hour and a half roadtrip to pitch a tent in the Ouachita National Forest. Eagle Rock Loop, a 26.8 mile trail, is a two- to three-day backpacking excursion that follows various streams and rivers. For a shorter trek, consider the six-mile Little Missouri Trail. Post-hike, cool off in the rolling waterfalls at Little Missouri Falls.

3. Visit the Little Rock Zoo

A great activity to enjoy the spring weather is to go look at animals. Some of the animal exhibits include lions, penguins, rhinos and flamingos. After walking around the zoo, head downtown for a sweet treat at Loblolly Creamery. Try one of the ice cream shop’s new flavors such as honey lavender, cherry limeade, strawberry buttermilk or pb crunch cup.

4. Ride horses at Degray Lake State Park

Open on the weekends in April and May, guests can take a guided, one-hour horse ride around Degray Lake for $35. For more information and to schedule a reservation visit www.arkansasstateparks.com/parks/degray-lake-resort-state-park/things-to-do.

5. Visit Daffodil Days and Tulip Extravaganza at Garvan Gardens in Hot Springs

Stroll around the gardens and admire the sights and smells of spring. The grounds are blooming with hyacinths, daffodils and 150,000 tulips in radiant colors. After soaking in the sights and smells of spring, visit Kollective Coffee and Tea for an afternoon pick-me-up. Try an iced Italian Blood Orange tea.

6. Attend a painting party at The Studio on Main in Arkadelphia

Every Friday and Saturday, the Studio on Main hosts painting parties for art and painting lovers. Spots are limited, so reservations should be made through their Facebook page @thestudioonmain.arkadelphia. Social distancing and COVID-19 guidelines are followed while artists are guided through a canvas painting.

7. Walk across the Arkansas River at Two Rivers Park in Little Rock

The park has a bridge over the Arkansas River for guests to cross. The paved trail also connects to Downtown Little Rock, making it great for walkers and bikers. The trail runs along the river and is covered by towering pine trees. Nearby, Rock Town River Outfitters offers kayak rentals for guests to paddle down the river. After closing your exercise ring, grab fajitas for lunch at Heights Taco & Tamale Co.

Take time to soak in the last few weeks of the spring semester and enjoy moments with your friends while getting out and exploring the Natural State.