Ask any dog owner, and they will happily explain how their furry, four-legged friends are like family to them (sometimes as much or more than their two-legged human counterparts). Dog owners are often chasing after fun and pet-friendly activities to do, and Arkansas—or, as it’s affectionately known, “Barkansas”—has no shortage of options.
Pet-Friendly Day Trips
There are some very dog-friendly day trips you, your family, and your pup can take in Arkansas. Below you’ll find detailed information on things to do, places to stay overnight, and more for the following places:
Pet-Friendly Hotels
For accommodations, we recommend using your Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation member benefit for a preferred rate at certain hotels. Choice Hotels, for example, offers members a discount at participating hotels and operates more than 3,500 pet-friendly hotels across the United States, including here in Arkansas.
Free Dog Parks
If you aren’t looking to make a whole trip out of it, we’ve compiled a list of pet-specific parks to take advantage of, found all over our state.
Pat Dodson 4 Paws Park
Maumelle, AR
425 Cogdell Dr
Maumelle, AR 72113 (directions)
This dog park is a quarter acre which is a perfect little getaway for you and your pet. It doesn’t matter whether you have a bigger pooch or smaller pup, 4 Paws Dog Park works for you, as there’s two separate areas for dogs under and over 25 pounds.
Bark Park
Bentonville, AR
2400 N Walton Blvd
Bentonville, AR 72712 (directions)
A great place for your dog to socialize, Bentonville Bark Park has areas for both large and small breads to play together. For the dog needed to exercise and burn off some energy, the agility course is just what you’re looking for.
Hot Springs Bark Park
Hot Springs, AR
410 Hollywood Ave
Hot Springs, AR 71901 (directions)
Opened back in 2010, the Hot Springs Bark Park was the first of its kind in the area and is still a great place for dogs and dog-lovers. The park has all the annuities you could want in its two-acre space, including play structures, separate space for large and small dogs, water stations, and more.
Pet-Friendly State/National Parks
Thinking a longer vacation is in order? Here are a few national and state parks that don’t mind if your fur baby tags along.
Hot Springs National Park
Hot Springs, AR
One of the most dog-friendly national parks in all of Arkansas is Hot Springs National Park. The park boasts dog access for all twenty-six miles of trails throughout the park. The park also has a very helpful B.A.R.K. Ranger guide for your pet to complete, ensuring you and your pup have the time of your lives.
Lake Dardanelle State Park
Russellville, AR
With tons of pet-friendly areas in open grassy fields, areas for picnics, and the Meadowbrook Trail, Lake Dardanelle State Park is a dog-owner’s dream. There are some great hiking trails to be explored as well.
Protect Your Dog With Pet Injury Coverage From Farm Bureau Insurance
At Farm Bureau Insurance, we take care of what matters most—including your pet. Contact a local agent near you to find out more about Pet Injury Protection, which can cover Fido’s injuries and more if there’s an auto accident.