Arkansas Map: Regions, Geography, Facts & Figures

As you can see from the Arkansas state map, it is located in the southern region of the United States. It is bordered by six other states, including Missouri, Tennessee, Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas, and Oklahoma. The state is home to several major cities, including the state capital, Little Rock, as well as Fort Smith, Fayetteville, Hot Springs, Jonesboro, Pine Bluff, Rogers, Conway, and West Memphis. Arkansas also contains seven national parks, two of the most popular being Hot Springs National Park and Buffalo National River.

The state is known for many things, including its natural beauty, which includes rivers, mountains, wildlife preserves, and lakes. It is also home to rich cultural heritage and history, with many fascinating sites like the Razorback Stadium in Fayetteville, making it a great place for people to visit.

If you want to discover more in-depth information on Arkansas as a state, check out our Arkansas Profile!

Plus, test your country knowledge with our American history quiz on The American Revolution!

History of Arkansas

The U.S. state of Arkansas was once home to various Native American tribes before being claimed by France in 1682, including the Osage, the Caddo, and the Quapaw. After being ceded to Spain, it became a territory of the United States in 1819. Arkansas became the 25th state to join the Union in 1836.[1]

During the Civil War and Reconstruction periods, Arkansas experienced significant changes. Unlike other states in the South, the northwest parts of Arkansas did not have cotton plantations, and as little as 2% of the black population in northwest Arkansas was enslaved. Arkansas was also the ninth state to secede.

The era of the Civil Rights Movement was a tense time in Arkansas's history. In 1957, history was made when nine African-American students were escorted by Army troops into Little Rock Central High School, which previously only allowed white students. This event, known as the Little Rock Nine, is a major landmark in the fight for desegregation in the U.S.

Geography of Arkansas

Arkansas is known for its diverse geography, including the Ouachita and Ozark Mountains, the Arkansas River, and several national parks. The state is also home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, black bears, and bald eagles. Visitors can explore scenic drives, hiking trails, and waterfalls in the Ozark National Forest, while Hot Springs National Park features natural hot springs that visitors can still bathe in today. Arkansas has 75 counties, crossed by interstate highways, each with its unique landscape, history, and culture, offering a wide range of outdoor activities and historical landmarks.

Tourist Attractions in Arkansas

The map of Arkansas is home to several tourist attractions, including national parks, historical landmarks, and scenic drives. Hot Springs National Park is home to natural hot springs that were believed to have healing properties by Native Americans. Visitors can still bathe in the hot springs today, and the park also features hiking trails and a historic bathhouse row. The Ozark National Forest spans over 1 million acres and is known for its scenic drives, hiking trails, and waterfalls.

Located in Bentonville, the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art features a collection of American art from the colonial period to the present day. Little Rock Central High School was the site of a major Civil Rights Movement struggle in 1957 when nine African-American students were prevented from attending classes. Today, the school is a National Historic Site and visitors can take a guided tour.

Other Cities in Arkansas

Apart from the major cities, there are other significant cities in Arkansas worth exploring, each with its own unique charm and sights on the city maps.

Located in the northwest, Benton and Russellville are known for their warm community vibe and historical significance. A physical map of Arkansas clearly delineates these cities along with their topographic features.

El Dorado, known as the heart of south Arkansas, and Texarkana, straddling Texas, have a rich oil history. These cities are often compared to those in Kansas and Nevada due to their thriving energy sectors.

The eastern cities of Forrest City and Paragould offer a serene, small-town experience with their charming downtown areas, reminiscent of Jacksonville and North Little Rock, respectively.

Springdale, located in the northwest, is known for its diverse culture and strong economy, similar to cities in Maine and Illinois. Searcy, known for its thriving arts community, can be likened to the city of Blytheville.

Arkadelphia and Magnolia in the south are recognized for their emphasis on higher education, hosting universities that draw national and international students, just as Arizona does with its renowned educational institutions.

Haw Creek Waterfall, Arkansas, USA
Image Source: Getty Images

People Also Search For…

Other online explorers of this U.S. state or U.S. maps also commonly ask the following questions, so we’ve compiled some helpful answers related to Arkansas and its county maps!

What Is Arkansas Known For?

Arkansas is known for its natural beauty, including its mountains, rivers, and national parks. The state is also famous for its fascinating history, including its role in the Civil War and the Civil Rights Movement. Visitors can explore numerous historical landmarks, including museums, battlefields, and parks, which provide a glimpse into the state's past.

Is Arkansas a Conservative State?

Arkansas is generally considered to be a conservative state, with a majority of its residents identifying as conservatives. However, it is important to note that political views can vary among individuals, and there may be pockets of more liberal or moderate views within the state as well.

Is Arkansas a Good Place To Live?

Yes, Arkansas can be a good place to live for those who appreciate a conservative environment and enjoy the state's natural beauty. However, individual preferences and priorities may vary, so it's important to consider personal needs and circumstances when deciding if it's the right place to live.

Sources

[1] Hughes, A., & Hughes, A. (2019, August 7). Arkansas: A Brief History of Statehood - Constituting America. Constituting America. Retrieved on October 30, 2023, from https://constitutingamerica.org/arkansas-a-brief-history-of-statehood-guest-essayist-the-honorable-tim-griffin/