Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Bella Vista, Arkansas and Cache, Oklahoma

Bella Vista, Arkansas, and Cache, Oklahoma are two scenic destinations that make for an exciting road trip. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or adventure seeker, there's something for everyone along this 357-mile route. The halfway point of Stroud, OK, is a charming town whose tourist attractions will make for a refreshing break. Here are the top five things to do on a road trip from Bella Vista, Arkansas to Cache, Oklahoma.

Take a Hike at Petit Jean State Park

Named after a French girl who disguised herself as a boy to follow her sweetheart on a voyage of discovery in the early 1700s, Petit Jean State Park is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts. The park offers several hiking trails that lead to natural wonders, such as waterfalls, caverns, and scenic overlooks. Visitors can also camp, fish, swim, or enjoy a picnic in the park's beautiful surroundings.

Interesting Fact: The park's namesake, Petit Jean, is buried at the park. Visitors can see her grave marker at the overlook near Mather Lodge.

Visit the Oklahoma Route 66 Museum

Located in Clinton, OK, the Oklahoma Route 66 Museum is a nostalgic journey through the history of America's most iconic highway. The museum features interactive exhibits, vintage cars, and artifacts that showcase the road's impact on American culture and society. Visitors can learn about the people who traveled Route 66, the motels and diners that sprang up along the way, and the music that defined the road trip experience.

Interesting Fact: Clinton, OK, is known as the "Hub City of Western Oklahoma" due to its location in the center of the state.

Go Horseback Riding at Lake Murray State Park

Lake Murray State Park offers over 12,000 acres of outdoor recreation, including boating, fishing, golfing, and horseback riding. Visitors can ride horses along the park's scenic trails, which wind through forests and across meadows. The park also has several cabins and campsites for those who want to stay overnight.

Interesting Fact: Lake Murray was constructed in the 1930s as a recreational area for the Works Progress Administration (WPA), a New Deal agency that provided jobs during the Great Depression.

Explore the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge

Located near Cache, OK, the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The refuge features over 59,000 acres of pristine wilderness, where visitors can hike, bike, fish, and observe wildlife. The park is home to bison, elk, longhorn cattle, and other native species that can be seen up close in their natural habitat.

Interesting Fact: The Wichita Mountains are some of the oldest mountains in the world, dating back over 500 million years.

Take a Jeep Tour at Medicine Park

Medicine Park is a historic resort town that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and quirky charm. Visitors can take a scenic jeep tour of the nearby mountains, swim in the town's famous swimming hole, and shop for souvenirs at the local boutiques. The town's cobblestone buildings and colorful architecture make for a picturesque backdrop.

Interesting Fact: Medicine Park was built in the early 1900s as a health resort, where people came to bathe in the town's natural springs.

The road trip from Bella Vista, Arkansas to Cache, Oklahoma takes approximately 6 hours, depending on traffic and stops. The route offers a diverse range of attractions that are sure to pique the interest of any traveler. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or culture, this road trip has it all. So pack your bags, hit the road, and enjoy the ride!