Part 9 of our 25-part Southeast road trip series takes us to the Natural State — and Arkansas is one of the most spectacularly beautiful and underrated road trip destinations in the entire Southeast. From the rugged Ozark Mountains to the crystal-clear Buffalo National River and the quirky charm of Eureka Springs, Arkansas will surprise you at every turn.
🐾 Why Arkansas?
Arkansas has more natural beauty per square mile than almost any state in the region — and far fewer crowds than its neighbors. The Ozarks offer world-class hiking, the Buffalo National River is America's first national river and a paddling paradise, and Hot Springs is one of the most unique small cities in the South. Dogs are welcome throughout, and the state's outdoor culture means your pup will feel right at home.
🏨 Pet-Friendly Hotels & Stays
Eureka Springs has numerous pet-friendly Victorian bed-and-breakfasts and cabins. Hot Springs has several pet-friendly hotels near the national park. Fayetteville in the Ozarks has modern pet-friendly hotels near the University of Arkansas campus and the Razorback Greenway trail system.
🍽️ Pet-Friendly Restaurants & Cafés
Fayetteville's Dickson Street entertainment district has several dog-friendly patio restaurants. Bentonville — home of Crystal Bridges Museum — has a growing food scene with dog-friendly outdoor dining. Hot Springs' historic Bathhouse Row area has several casual spots with outdoor seating.
🍺 Dog-Friendly Breweries
Arkansas has a growing craft beer scene. Ozark Beer Company in Rogers has a dog-friendly taproom. Bike Rack Brewing in Bentonville is a local favorite with outdoor space. Lost Forty Brewing in Little Rock has a large dog-friendly patio.
🌲 Dog-Friendly Parks & Trails
Buffalo National River is one of the crown jewels of the National Park System — leashed dogs are welcome on trails and at river access points. Ozark National Forest has hundreds of miles of dog-friendly trails. Petit Jean State Park has stunning dog-friendly trails to Cedar Falls, one of Arkansas's most beautiful waterfalls. The Razorback Greenway in Fayetteville/Bentonville is a 37-mile paved trail perfect for dogs.
🗺️ Suggested Road Trip Route
Start in Fayetteville/Bentonville (Razorback Greenway + Crystal Bridges) → east to Eureka Springs → south to Buffalo National River → southwest to Petit Jean State Park → finish in Hot Springs. Best enjoyed over 4–5 days.
🐶 Pro Tips
- The Buffalo National River is best visited in spring when water levels are ideal for paddling.
- Bentonville has become a world-class mountain biking destination — many trails are dog-friendly.
- Arkansas summers are hot — the Ozarks are cooler than the lowlands and more comfortable for dogs.
- Crystal Bridges Museum grounds are dog-friendly — a beautiful walk through art and nature.
🐾 Travel in Bougie Style
Exploring the Natural State with your pup? From the Ozark trails to Hot Springs' historic district, our Airline Approved Mystique Fashion Pet Carrier is the perfect travel companion — stylish, practical, and airline approved for pets who never compromise on style.
Have a favorite dog-friendly spot in Arkansas we should add? Drop it in the comments!
🐾 This is Part 9 of 25 in our Southeast Dog-Friendly Road Trip Series.
← Part 8: Louisiana | ↑ Back to the Series Hub | Part 10: Kentucky →