1.2026 Events in Arkansas

Arkansas State Parks welcome 2026 with First Day Hikes on January 1, a statewide tradition that invites the public to start the year outdoors. Part of a national program held in all 50 states, First Day Hikes offer guided and self-guided walks on park trails ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hikes, encouraging healthy habits and appreciation for Arkansas’s natural landscapes. Visit the Arkansas State Park event calendar to see scheduled guided First Day Hikes and activities. Participants are asked to share their First Day Hike experiences. You can upload your photos and/or videos here and use #ARStateParks and #FirstDayHikes when sharing on social media. Some state parks hosting guided hikes include: 

Cane Creek State Park
Cossatot River State Park–Natural Area
DeGray Lake Resort State Park
Delta Heritage Trail State Park
Lake Catherine State Park
Lake Chicot State Park
Lake Frierson State Park
Lake Ouachita State Park
Lake Poinsett State Park
Parkin Archeological State Park
Petit Jean State Park
Pinnacle Mountain State Park
Village Creek State Park
Woolly Hollow State Park