Road Tripping from Benton, Arkansas to Woodward, Oklahoma: Top Places to See

Are you planning a road trip from Benton, Arkansas to Woodward, Oklahoma? If so, you're in luck! This picturesque route is full of beauty, history, and adventure. Get ready for a drive filled with stunning scenery, great food, and all sorts of attractions along the way. Here are some must-see destinations on your Benton-Woodward road trip.

1. Petit Jean State Park, Arkansas

Petit Jean State Park is an excellent destination for a weekend getaway from Benton. The park's namesake is a legendary Native American woman who disguised herself as a man to accompany her French lover to the New World. Today, the park has several hiking and biking trails, camping sites, and picnic areas. One of the park's highlights is Cedar Falls, a 95-foot waterfall that's a must-see. The park's rustic charm combined with its fun activities make it an excellent first stop on your trip.

2. Ozark National Forest, Arkansas

Your next stop on your way to Woodward should be the Ozark National Forest. You can easily spend a couple of days exploring this vast area that spans over 1.2 million acres. The Ozark National Forest is known for its scenic drives, hiking trails, and wildlife. The best way to explore the forest is to take a drive down the Pig Trail Scenic Byway. The 19-mile drive is famous for its curves, overlooks, and views of the Boston Mountains.

3. Chickasaw National Recreation Area, Oklahoma

Chickasaw National Recreation Area is a lush oasis in the middle of Oklahoma's prairies. The park features several mineral springs that feed creeks, lakes, and swimming holes throughout the park. You can spend the day hiking, swimming, or fishing in the park's many waterways. The park also has several historic structures like the Vendome Well and the Rock Creek Bathhouse that provide insight into the area's past.

4. Route 66 Museum, Oklahoma

No road trip through Oklahoma is complete without a visit to the Route 66 Museum in Clinton. The museum showcases the history of the famous highway and its impact on American culture. You can see exhibit galleries filled with vintage cars, signs, and memorabilia from the Route 66 era. The museum also has a gift shop where you can buy souvenirs to commemorate your trip down the Mother Road.

5. Alabaster Caverns State Park, Oklahoma

Your final destination on your Benton-Woodward road trip should be Alabaster Caverns State Park. This extraordinary park is home to the world's largest gypsum cave open to the public. The cave has several rooms filled with unique formations like gypsum flowers, needles, and crystals. You'll also see a variety of animals that call the cave home, including bats, cave crickets, and albino salamanders. The park also has camping facilities and several hiking trails that loop around the cave.

Conclusion

Driving from Benton, Arkansas to Woodward, Oklahoma is an adventure full of history, nature, and fun attractions. The Petit Jean State Park, Ozark National Forest, Chickasaw National Recreation Area, Route 66 Museum, and Alabaster Caverns State Park are must-see destinations on this route. Whether you're a fan of hiking, sightseeing, history, or adventure, there's something for everyone to enjoy on this road trip. So, pack your bags, buckle up, and hit the road for an unforgettable excursion through the heart of America.