These kid-friendly activities in Newton County, AR are the perfect way to spend time with the whole family. There’s something for everyone! We’ve got you covered from hiking to horseback riding or hayrides to canoeing, swimming and more. Here is a list of our favorite activities around Ozark Grove for visitors of all ages.
Explore Swimming Holes
Swimming holes are located at every point of access along the Buffalo National River. These are excellent places to sit with your feet in the water, take a swim or just enjoy a bit of time along the river. Let the kids play in the dirt and throw pebbles into the river while you soak up the views. Bring a mid-day picnic or snacks for everyone to munch on while you wave at canoers.
Horseback Riding and Family Hayrides
Horseback riding can be a great way to experience the beauty of our area. The Buffalo River Trail stretches over 150 miles. The trail crosses the river at multiple points, providing easy access for scenic horseback riding trips on both sides of the river. In the event you have littles along who are too young for horseback riding, there are local horse drawn hayride opportunities for the whole family as well. Get more information about horseback riding.
Family Friendly Hikes
Don’t forget your hiking boots when you come! You won’t want to miss partaking in at least one hiking adventure while you’re here. The Arkansas State website maintains a list of family-friendly hikes for you to enjoy with kiddos of any age. Don’t miss out on the waterfalls and caves along the way, which are sure to bring wonder and awe to the whole group. See the list of trails recommended for families.
Canoeing
Canoeing is one of the best ways to experience the Ozark waterways. Children as young as three or four can enjoy this activity, depending on their swimming skills and other safety considerations. Speak with a local guide to understand the prerequisites and the best areas to canoe with young children. Canoeing is typically recommended over kayaking for those with younger kids, as canoes are stable. They also offer lots of wiggle room and space for gear for 4-7 year olds. Be sure everyone on board will tolerate wearing a life jacket (personal floatation device or PFD) the entire time you’re on the water. All PFDs should be put on while still on land and not taken off until back on land.
Here are a few resources we recommend for canoeing:
Hilary Jones Wildlife Museum & Elk Information Center
Elk were reintroduced to our area in 1981, after the native population had been completely wiped out in the 1840s due to habitat loss. Newton County is now known as the Elk Capital of Arkansas! So whether you come to the Hilary Jones Wildlife Museum & Elk Information Center for the freshwater fish aquariums, wildlife paintings, whitetail deer section, ducks or to learn about the successful elk reintroduction program in Newton County, we know you’ll enjoy this activity. There is also a gift shop with lots to explore.
Check it out at Scenic 7 Byway North Jasper, AR 72641. Their phone number is 870-446-6180. Read more about the elk in our area.
Visit downtown Jasper, AR
Jasper is a perfect place to enjoy festivals, farmers markets, live music, shop for locally made goods and have a bite to eat. Jasper was named one of the “Five Spots for Family Reunions” by American Cowboy magazine (September 2012) and an “Arkansas Treasure” by Governor Mike Beebe so you know it’s worth visiting! Don’t forget to stop into the Ozark Cafe for burgers, shakes or to try their famous chocolate gravy. (No really — it’s actually famous! Delish.com named it Arkansas’s Must Try Food.) Ozark Cafe was also included in New York Magazine’s Grub Street blog as Arkansas’s Top 50 foodie destination. Read more about Jasper, Arkansas.
We’re currently in their offseason (closed for November & December), but there is also gem mining available at Mystic Caverns. It’s a fun activity for the kids while visiting Mystic Cavern or Crystal Dome. They will reopen in the spring! Read more about Mystic Caverns.
These family activities in Newton County, AR are great ways to soak up the great outdoors and more importantly enjoy quality time with your loved ones! Please feel free to contact us if you’ve got any questions or need additional direction or ideas. We’re here to make sure your stay with us is as enjoyable and memorable as possible!