The Ultimate Road Trip: Antlers, Oklahoma to Ashdown, Arkansas

Driving from Antlers, Oklahoma to Ashdown, Arkansas is a fun and exciting adventure. This road trip will take you through beautifully scenic routes and let you experience the unique culture and traditions that the small towns in the area have to offer. So, if you’re planning to take this trip, here's a list of top places you must see along the way.

Explore The Great Outdoors

Exploring the great outdoors is always a great pastime. And if you're taking this road trip, there are several places you must add to your itinerary.

1. Beavers Bend State Park - Located in the foothills of the Kiamichi Mountains, Beavers Bend State Park is one of the best spots to visit on your road trip. It is the perfect place for nature enthusiasts as it offers a wide range of activities, including kayaking, boating, fishing, hiking, camping, and more. You can also enjoy the beautiful flora and fauna in the park, or simply soak in the hot tub in one of the cozy cabins available for rent.

2. Broken Bow Lake - If you're a fan of water activities, you must visit the Broken Bow Lake. It is known for its crystal-clear water and is an ideal spot for swimming, boating, and fishing. You can rent a boat, try paddleboarding, or even take a guided fishing tour. Broken Bow Lake is also surrounded by lush green trees and picturesque mountains, making it a perfect spot for photographers.

3. Little River National Wildlife Refuge - Covering 13,000 acres, the Little River National Wildlife Refuge is home to several unique species of flora and fauna. And if you're lucky, you might even spot a black bear or an alligator. The refuge offers several hiking trails, boardwalks, and observation decks, making it a great place for a peaceful nature walk.

Visit Quirky Small Towns

Along the road trip from Antlers to Ashdown, you'll encounter several quirky small towns that are worth visiting. Here are some of them:

4. Idabel, Oklahoma - The town of Idabel, Oklahoma, is known as the "Dogwood Capital of Oklahoma." It is a charming little town with several unique things to do, ranging from antique shopping, visiting the Museum of the Red River, or enjoying the annual Dogwood Days Festival. Idabel also has several parks, gardens, and trails to explore.

5. Texarkana, Texas - Texarkana, Texas, sits on the state line of Arkansas and Texas and is known as the "twice as nice" city. The town has several quirky and unique attractions, such as the Ace of Clubs House, where you can experience the history and architecture of the South. You can also explore the local museums, visit the state parks, or enjoy the annual Four States Fair and Rodeo.

Take A Trip Down Memory Lane

If you're in the mood for some historical and cultural exploration, add these places to your list:

6. Fort Towson Historic Site - Fort Towson Historic site is an 1824 frontier fort situated on the western edge of Choctaw Nation. It played a significant role in the United States' history in Indian Territory and was the site of several historic events, including the Trail of Tears. The fort includes several historical buildings, such as barracks, stables, and a powder magazine.

7. Dierks, Arkansas - Dierks, Arkansas, is home to several historic places, including the Cossatot River State Park-Natural Area and the Dierks Lake. The town is also known for the Dierks Family Music Park, which is dedicated to the musical heritage of the Dierks family. You can visit the park and explore the music exhibits, listen to live music, or even attend a bluegrass festival.

Conclusion

Antlers, Oklahoma to Ashdown, Arkansas, is a road trip that is worth taking. And these top places are just a few of the many spots you can explore along the way. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and make unforgettable memories. Happy travels!