Arkansas has so much to offer travelers, especially those who value the great outdoors. An extensive network of state and national parks features miles of hiking trails, including the 165-mile Ozark Highlands National Recreation Trail, as well as hot springs, white-water rafting, and lots more. Vibrant cities and quaint villages have upscale dining, museums and historical sites, exciting theme parks, and challenging golf courses. Luxurious resorts and spas soothe your body and rejuvenate your spirit.<BR><BR>Opportunities abound here for unforgettable fishing, camping, mountain biking, sailing, and spelunking. This is one state that earns its nickname every day: the "Natural State" boasts 52 state parks within its 53,000 square miles; ideal for families, most parks provide free interpretive services and programs. Dig for sparkling gemstones at the Crater of Diamonds; watch soaring eagles and hang gliders from a barge or the deck of a lodge; sleep in a historic schoolhouse or a yurt or pitch your tent under the stars beside a pristine river. And you're bound to learn something new while you're having fun---park interpreters are botanists, biologists, historians, and artisans.<BR><BR>As with all Explorer's Guides, helpful icons make it easy to locate places of extra value, family-friendly activities, and lodgings that welcome pets. Regional and city maps help you get around and What's Where provides a quick reference on everything from crystal mines to dude ranches.<BR><BR>For a unique, exciting, adventure of a vacation, why not try Arkansas? It's just waiting to impress you.<BR><BR>Former communications director for the Arkansas Department of Parks & Tourism, Jana Wood has made a career of promoting the richness and diversity of her home state to movie directors, journalists, and editors, and escorting them through its urban and wilderness landscape. They were impressed by the natural beauty of Arkansas and by the graciousness and hospitality of its residents, and you will be tool