Arkansas has a diverse landscape, with its physical features spanning mountains, rivers, forests, and plains. The Ozark Mountains in the north and the Ouachita Mountains in the west are prominent highland areas, reaching elevations over 2,700 feet at Mount Magazine, the state’s highest point. In the east, the Mississippi Alluvial Plain features rich agricultural land, while the Arkansas River Valley runs between the Ozarks and Ouachitas, providing a corridor of fertile soil. Covering around 53,179 square miles, Arkansas’s varied topography supports diverse ecosystems and agricultural productivity.
| Feature | Detail | Additional Information |
|---|---|---|
| State Area | 53,179 square miles | 33rd largest state in the U.S. by area |
| Highest Point | Mount Magazine (2,753 feet) | Located in the Ouachita Mountains, Yell County |
| Lowest Point | Mississippi River (55 feet) | Located at the eastern border with Mississippi |
| Main Mountain Ranges | Ozark Mountains, Ouachita Mountains | Ozarks in the north, Ouachitas in the west-central region |
| Longest River | Arkansas River (1,469 miles total) | Flows across Arkansas from west to east before joining the Mississippi River |
| Major Rivers | Mississippi, White, Ouachita, St. Francis, Red | Rivers play critical roles in agriculture, trade, and recreation |
| Major Lakes | Lake Ouachita, Bull Shoals Lake, Greers Ferry Lake | Important for recreation, water supply, and tourism |
| Climate Zones | Humid Subtropical | Warm summers, mild winters; average annual temperature around 60°F |
| Geographical Regions | Ozark Plateau, Arkansas River Valley, Ouachita Mountains, Mississippi Alluvial Plain, Gulf Coastal Plain | Distinct regions with unique landscapes and ecosystems |
| Population Density | 58 people per square mile (as of recent census) | Lower density compared to national average, concentrated in urban areas |
| Largest City by Area | Little Rock | State capital and largest city, located in the Arkansas River Valley |
| National Forests | Ouachita National Forest, Ozark-St. Francis National Forest | Over 2.9 million acres combined, supporting biodiversity and recreation |
| Natural Resources | Bauxite, timber, oil, natural gas | Arkansas is one of the world’s leading producers of bauxite |
| Wildlife | Deer, black bears, wild turkeys, and various fish species | Diverse habitats support rich flora and fauna, including over 400 bird species |
| Protected Areas | Hot Springs National Park, Buffalo National River | Hot Springs is the oldest federal reserve, Buffalo was first National River |
| Coastal Plain | Gulf Coastal Plain in the southern part of the state | Known for fertile soils and agricultural productivity |
| Significant Wetlands | Cache River and White River wetlands | Important for migratory birds, protected by national wildlife refuges |
| Average Annual Precipitation | About 50 inches | Varies by region, with higher rainfall in the south |
| River | Length (miles) | Source | Endpoint | Primary Cities Along the River | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arkansas River | 1,469 | Rocky Mountains, Colorado | Mississippi River | Fort Smith, Little Rock, Pine Bluff | Longest river in Arkansas, key for commerce and recreation |
| Mississippi River | 2,340 | Lake Itasca, Minnesota | Gulf of Mexico | West Memphis, Helena-West Helena | Forms eastern border of Arkansas, major trade route |
| White River | 722 | Boston Mountains, Arkansas | Mississippi River | Batesville, Newport | Popular for fishing, flows through the Ozarks and Delta regions |
| Buffalo River | 153 | Boston Mountains, Arkansas | White River | Jasper (nearby) | First National River, known for scenic beauty and recreational use |
| Ouachita River | 605 | Ouachita Mountains, Arkansas | Black River, Louisiana | Hot Springs, Camden | Flows through Ouachita Mountains, diverse ecosystems |
| St. Francis River | 426 | St. Francois Mountains, Missouri | Mississippi River | West Memphis (nearby) | Flows through northeastern Arkansas, supports agriculture |
| Red River | 1,360 | Texas | Atchafalaya and Mississippi Rivers, Louisiana | Fulton (nearby) | Forms part of Arkansas’s southwestern border |
| Spring River | 57 | Mammoth Spring, Arkansas | Black River | Hardy | Known for trout fishing and canoeing |
| Little Red River | 102 | Ozark Mountains, Arkansas | White River | Heber Springs | Famous for trout fishing, especially near Greers Ferry Dam |
| Fourche La Fave River | 140 | Ouachita Mountains, Arkansas | Arkansas River | Perryville (nearby) | Flows through central Arkansas, supports irrigation |
| Saline River | 202 | Ouachita Mountains, Arkansas | Ouachita River | Benton, Sheridan | Entirely within Arkansas, known for biodiversity |
| Cache River | 213 | Southeast Missouri | White River | Augusta | Important wetland habitat, critical for migratory birds |
| Bayou Bartholomew | 375 | Near Pine Bluff, Arkansas | Louisiana | Pine Bluff | Longest bayou in the world, rich in biodiversity |
| Big Piney Creek | 70 | Ozark National Forest | Arkansas River | Clarksville (nearby) | Popular for whitewater rafting and outdoor activities |
| Mulberry River | 70 | Ozark Mountains, Arkansas | Arkansas River | Ozark (nearby) | Known for kayaking and scenic views |
| Poteau River | 141 | Winding Stair Mountains, Oklahoma | Arkansas River | Fort Smith (nearby) | Only river in Arkansas that flows north |
| Petit Jean River | 113 | Petit Jean Mountain, Arkansas | Arkansas River | Danville | Flows through Petit Jean State Park |
| Black River | 300 | Southeast Missouri | White River | Pocahontas | Supports agriculture, important for northeast Arkansas |
| Strawberry River | 115 | Ozark Plateau | Black River | Cave City | Clear waters, valuable for fisheries |
| Lake | Surface Area (acres) | Maximum Depth (feet) | Location | Primary Uses | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lake Ouachita | 40,100 | 200 | Near Hot Springs | Recreation, fishing, water sports | Largest lake in Arkansas, known for clear water and scuba diving |
| Bull Shoals Lake | 45,440 | 210 | Near Mountain Home | Fishing, boating, camping | Formed by Bull Shoals Dam, popular for bass fishing |
| Greers Ferry Lake | 31,500 | 198 | Near Heber Springs | Fishing, boating, water sports | Created by Greers Ferry Dam, known for its trout fishing |
| Beaver Lake | 28,370 | 203 | Near Rogers | Recreation, water supply, hydroelectric power | Reservoir built by Beaver Dam, serves Northwest Arkansas |
| Lake Dardanelle | 34,300 | 60 | Near Russellville | Fishing, boating, camping | Part of the Arkansas River, popular for fishing tournaments |
| Millwood Lake | 29,200 | 50 | Near Ashdown | Fishing, wildlife habitat, flood control | Renowned for bass fishing and birdwatching |
| Norfork Lake | 22,000 | 177 | Near Mountain Home | Fishing, recreation | Crosses into Missouri, popular for trout fishing |
| Lake Chicot | 5,000 | 20 | Lake Village | Fishing, boating | Largest natural lake in Arkansas, formed by the Mississippi River |
| DeGray Lake | 13,800 | 200 | Near Arkadelphia | Recreation, hydroelectric power | Known for its scenic beauty, popular for fishing and camping |
| Lake Conway | 6,700 | 16 | Near Conway | Fishing, boating | Largest lake built by a state wildlife agency in the U.S. |
| Blue Mountain Lake | 3,000 | 40 | Near Havana | Flood control, fishing | Managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers |
| Gillham Lake | 1,370 | 59 | Near Gillham | Flood control, recreation | Built for flood control, fishing, and camping |
| White Oak Lake | 2,767 | 20 | Near Camden | Fishing, camping | Popular for crappie and bass fishing |
| Lake Maumelle | 8,900 | 37 | Near Little Rock | Water supply | Main drinking water source for Little Rock |
| Mountain Range | Highest Peak | Elevation (feet) | Location | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ozark Mountains | Buffalo Lookout | 2,561 | Northwest Arkansas | Known for karst topography, caves, springs, and the scenic Buffalo National River |
| Ouachita Mountains | Mount Magazine | 2,753 | West-central Arkansas | Includes Arkansas's highest peak; popular for hiking, camping, and diverse ecosystems |
| Boston Mountains | Turner Ward Knob | 2,463 | Northwestern Ozarks | Part of the Ozarks; characterized by steep ridges and deep valleys |
| Magazine Mountain Range | Mount Magazine | 2,753 | Logan County | Contains the highest point in Arkansas, popular for rock climbing and scenic views |
| Petit Jean Mountain | Stout's Point | 1,200 | Near Morrilton | Site of Arkansas’s first state park; known for its unique geology and scenic overlooks |
| Rich Mountain | Rich Mountain | 2,681 | Polk County (Ouachitas) | Second-highest point in Arkansas, traversed by the scenic Talimena Drive |
| Black Fork Mountain Range | Black Fork Mountain | 2,659 | Scott and Polk Counties | Part of the Ouachita National Forest, known for rugged terrain and hiking trails |
| Poteau Mountain Range | Mercy Mountain | 1,500 | Western Arkansas | Extends into Oklahoma, features diverse flora and fauna, popular with outdoor enthusiasts |
| Devil's Den Ridge | Mount Olive | 1,120 | Near Devil's Den State Park | Known for Devil's Den State Park, rock formations, and caves |
| Springfield Plateau | Various hills and ridges | 1,000 - 1,500 | Northwest Arkansas (part of the Ozarks) | Characterized by gently rolling hills, limestone bluffs, and forests |
| Saline Mountains | Saline Mountain | 1,400 | Near Benton | Low mountains with wooded terrain, part of the Ouachita geological region |
| Plateau | Region | Elevation Range (feet) | Location | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Springfield Plateau | Ozark Plateau | 1,000 - 1,500 | Northwest Arkansas | Gently rolling hills, limestone bluffs, forests; rich in karst features like caves and springs |
| Salem Plateau | Ozark Plateau | 800 - 1,300 | North-central Arkansas | Characterized by karst topography, underground streams, and caves; known for its agricultural suitability |
| Boston Mountains Plateau | Ozark Plateau | 1,200 - 2,600 | Northwestern Arkansas | Highest part of the Ozarks; steep ridges, deep valleys, forested areas, and numerous streams |
| Arkansas Valley Plateau | Between Ozark and Ouachita Mountains | 400 - 1,500 | Central Arkansas, near Arkansas River Valley | Transitional region with varied topography; includes flat valleys and rugged hills |
| Ouachita Plateau | Ouachita Mountains | 800 - 2,000 | Western Arkansas | Distinctive east-west ridges and valleys; primarily forested, part of Ouachita National Forest |
Arkansas is a state with diverse and unique physical features, ranging from mountains and valleys to rivers, plateaus, and plains. Covering an area of 53,179 square miles, Arkansas is located in the southeastern United States and has a varied topography that includes the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains, the Mississippi Alluvial Plain, and extensive river valleys. These features shape Arkansas’s ecosystems, influence the economy, and provide numerous recreational opportunities.
The Ozark Mountains occupy much of northern Arkansas, extending into Missouri, Oklahoma, and Kansas. Known for their rugged terrain and high plateaus, the Ozarks reach elevations up to 2,561 feet at Buffalo Lookout. The area is characterized by a mix of forested hills, limestone bluffs, and clear streams, with karst topography that includes caves and springs. The Boston Mountains, a subsection of the Ozarks, contain some of the highest elevations in the region, reaching over 2,500 feet in places. The Ozarks are rich in biodiversity and provide habitats for various plant and animal species, including white-tailed deer, black bears, and many bird species.
Located in west-central Arkansas, the Ouachita Mountains are unique because they run east to west, unlike most North American mountain ranges, which run north to south. The highest point in the state, Mount Magazine, reaches 2,753 feet and is part of the Ouachita region. The Ouachitas are known for their forested ridges and valleys, mineral deposits, and recreational areas. The Ouachita National Forest, which spans Arkansas and Oklahoma, covers much of this region and provides opportunities for camping, hiking, and exploring. The area is also notable for its thermal springs, particularly in Hot Springs, where natural spring waters attract thousands of visitors each year.
The Mississippi Alluvial Plain, also known as the Delta, covers eastern Arkansas along the Mississippi River. This region is characterized by flat, fertile land that was formed by sediment deposits from the river. The alluvial plain is one of the most productive agricultural areas in the United States, supporting crops like rice, soybeans, and cotton. Elevations in the Delta range from about 55 feet near the Mississippi River to just over 200 feet inland. The area also features wetlands, oxbow lakes, and dense forests that provide critical habitats for migratory birds and other wildlife.
The Arkansas River Valley runs through central Arkansas, separating the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains. This region includes a mix of flat valleys and low hills, with fertile land that supports agriculture and several urban centers. The Arkansas River, a major tributary of the Mississippi River, flows through this valley and provides water resources, recreational opportunities, and navigation for trade. Cities like Little Rock, Fort Smith, and Russellville are located within the river valley, contributing to the region’s economic significance.
Located within the Arkansas River Valley, Mount Magazine is Arkansas’s highest peak at 2,753 feet. The mountain is part of the Magazine Mountain Range, which offers rock climbing, hiking, and scenic overlooks, attracting outdoor enthusiasts from around the region. The surrounding area, known as Mount Magazine State Park, also supports a variety of wildlife and plant species.
Arkansas has several notable plateaus, primarily found within the Ozark region. The Springfield Plateau, Salem Plateau, and Boston Mountains Plateau each have unique geological characteristics:
Arkansas has an extensive network of rivers and lakes, contributing to the state’s natural beauty and providing resources for agriculture, recreation, and trade.
Arkansas has a humid subtropical climate, with hot, humid summers and mild winters. Average annual rainfall is around 50 inches, with higher precipitation in the south. This climate supports diverse ecosystems, including hardwood forests, wetlands, prairies, and pine forests.
Arkansas’s varied habitats support a rich array of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, black bears, wild turkeys, and numerous bird species. The state’s rivers and lakes are home to various fish species, making Arkansas a popular destination for fishing and wildlife observation.
Arkansas has a rich and complex geological history that spans over 500 million years. The state’s geology is diverse, including features from ancient mountain ranges and river valleys to mineral deposits and unique geological formations. Arkansas is divided into distinct geological regions, each with its own characteristics, such as the Ozark Plateaus, Ouachita Mountains, Gulf Coastal Plain, and the Mississippi Alluvial Plain. This diversity shapes the landscape, natural resources, and ecosystems, making Arkansas a significant area for geological study and exploration.
The Ozark Plateaus occupy much of northern Arkansas and extend into Missouri, Oklahoma, and Kansas. This region is characterized by high plateaus, deep valleys, and rugged hills. The Ozarks are known for their karst topography, which includes caves, sinkholes, and springs formed from the erosion of limestone and dolomite. The rock layers in the Ozarks primarily date back to the Ordovician and Mississippian periods, approximately 450 to 350 million years ago.
The Boston Mountains are a high area within the Ozark Plateaus and represent some of the oldest and most resistant rock formations in Arkansas. Composed mainly of sandstone and shale, the Boston Mountains contain elevations up to 2,600 feet. The geological formations here are primarily from the Mississippian and Pennsylvanian periods, with rugged terrain that includes steep ridges and deep valleys.
The Ouachita Mountains are located in the western and central parts of Arkansas and extend into Oklahoma. These mountains were formed during the Ouachita Orogeny around 300 million years ago during the Pennsylvanian period. Unlike the Ozarks, which are uplifted plateaus, the Ouachita Mountains are true folded mountains, similar in formation to the Appalachian Mountains. The region is known for its unique rock formations, including chert, quartzite, slate, and novaculite.
Mount Magazine, the highest point in Arkansas at 2,753 feet, is part of the Ouachita Mountains. This mountain consists of sedimentary rocks that have been folded and uplifted over millions of years, contributing to the distinctive east-west ridges that characterize the Ouachita region. The Ouachitas also contain rare minerals and deposits, such as quartz crystals and novaculite, used by early Native Americans for making tools.
The Mississippi Alluvial Plain, also known as the Delta, covers eastern Arkansas along the Mississippi River. This area is primarily composed of alluvial deposits left by river flooding and sedimentation over thousands of years. The plain is mostly flat and lies at an elevation of about 100 to 300 feet. The soils in this region are rich in nutrients, making it one of the most fertile agricultural areas in the United States.
The alluvial plain was formed during the Quaternary period, around 2.5 million years ago, as rivers deposited layers of sand, silt, and clay. This sedimentation process has created a thick layer of fertile soil, supporting Arkansas's significant agricultural industry, particularly for crops like rice, cotton, and soybeans.
The Gulf Coastal Plain covers southern Arkansas and consists of sedimentary deposits from the Gulf of Mexico. The region is primarily composed of unconsolidated sand, gravel, clay, and limestone. These deposits date back to the Cretaceous and Tertiary periods, approximately 145 to 2.5 million years ago. The Gulf Coastal Plain is known for its oil and natural gas deposits, which contribute to Arkansas’s economy.
The Gulf Coastal Plain is rich in resources such as bauxite, oil, and natural gas. Bauxite, the primary ore for aluminum, was heavily mined in Arkansas during the 20th century, and the state was once a leading producer. Petroleum exploration and production remain important in the region today.
Arkansas is home to a variety of mineral resources, including quartz, bauxite, novaculite, and diamonds.
Arkansas is known as the “Quartz Crystal Capital of the World,” with high-quality quartz deposits found mainly in the Ouachita Mountains. Quartz crystals from Arkansas are renowned for their clarity and are mined for both industrial use and for collectors.
Bauxite, the primary ore used to produce aluminum, was discovered in Arkansas in the early 20th century, and the state became one of the world’s leading producers. The largest deposits of bauxite are found in Saline and Pulaski counties within the Gulf Coastal Plain region.
Novaculite is a dense, hard rock that is abundant in the Ouachita Mountains. It has been used by Native Americans for tool-making and is still used today as a natural sharpening stone. Arkansas novaculite is recognized for its quality and durability.
The Crater of Diamonds State Park in Murfreesboro, Arkansas, is the only diamond-producing site open to the public in the world. The diamonds found here were formed over a billion years ago and brought to the surface by volcanic activity. Visitors to the park can search for diamonds and keep any they find.
The geological history of Arkansas began during the Paleozoic Era, over 500 million years ago, when the state was covered by a shallow sea. During this time, sedimentary rocks like limestone, shale, and sandstone were deposited. Over millions of years, tectonic activity uplifted the Ozark and Ouachita regions, forming the mountains and plateaus seen today.
The Ouachita Orogeny occurred approximately 300 million years ago during the late Paleozoic Era, creating the Ouachita Mountains. This orogeny was the result of tectonic collisions and folding, forming a mountain range that stretches from Arkansas into Oklahoma and Texas. This event also led to the creation of novaculite and quartz deposits.
In the more recent Quaternary period, the Mississippi Embayment, a trough-shaped feature extending into Arkansas, influenced the state’s topography and created the Mississippi Alluvial Plain. This region remains one of the most significant geological and economic regions in the state due to its rich soil and agricultural productivity.
Today, Arkansas’s geology supports various industries, including agriculture, mining, and tourism. The state’s mineral resources, such as quartz, bauxite, and diamonds, contribute to its economy, while geological formations like the Ouachita and Ozark Mountains attract tourists and outdoor enthusiasts. Arkansas’s geology continues to shape the landscape and provide valuable resources, making it a state of geological and ecological significance.
Arkansas has a humid subtropical climate characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters. Located in the southeastern United States, Arkansas experiences varied weather patterns due to its geography, with differences between the highlands of the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains and the lowlands of the Mississippi Alluvial Plain. The state’s climate is influenced by moisture from the Gulf of Mexico, leading to significant rainfall and humidity. Arkansas also experiences severe weather, including thunderstorms, tornadoes, and occasional winter storms.
Summers in Arkansas are typically hot and humid, with average high temperatures ranging from 85°F to 95°F (29°C to 35°C). July is the warmest month, with temperatures frequently reaching the upper 90s in the southern and central parts of the state. High humidity levels contribute to a heat index that can make the temperature feel even hotter. The lowlands, especially the Delta region, often experience higher temperatures than the highlands.
Winters in Arkansas are generally mild, with average temperatures ranging from 35°F to 50°F (2°C to 10°C). January is the coldest month, and while snowfall is rare, it can occur, especially in the northern and higher elevation areas. The Ozark and Ouachita regions may see brief periods of snowfall, while the southern parts of the state rarely experience significant winter precipitation.
Spring and fall are transitional seasons with mild temperatures. During spring, average highs range from 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C), with an increase in severe weather activity, such as thunderstorms and tornadoes. Fall brings cooling temperatures, with highs between 65°F and 85°F (18°C to 29°C), providing comfortable weather and scenic foliage, particularly in the mountainous areas.
Arkansas receives an average annual precipitation of about 50 inches (1270 mm), though this varies by region. The southeast receives the highest rainfall, with averages of 55 inches (1400 mm), while the northwest region receives around 45 inches (1140 mm). Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, but late spring and early fall are the wettest periods.
Thunderstorms are common in Arkansas, especially during the spring and summer months. The state experiences around 60 thunderstorms annually, often bringing heavy rain, strong winds, and sometimes hail. Severe thunderstorms are more likely to occur in spring, as the warmer Gulf air collides with colder air masses, creating instability in the atmosphere.
Snowfall in Arkansas is generally light, with an average annual accumulation of 5 inches (127 mm), primarily affecting the northern and higher elevation areas. In most parts of the state, snowfall is sporadic and often melts quickly. The northern Ozarks can receive a bit more snow, with occasional winter storms bringing measurable snow across the state.
Due to its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico, Arkansas has relatively high humidity, especially during summer. Average relative humidity in the summer ranges from 70% to 80%. The humidity, combined with high temperatures, contributes to a high heat index, making the summer season feel even warmer. Winter humidity levels are lower but can still contribute to a damp feeling.
Arkansas is part of Dixie Alley, a region prone to tornadoes. On average, Arkansas experiences around 33 tornadoes per year. Tornado season peaks in spring, particularly from March to May, but tornadoes can occur at any time of year. The state has implemented various warning systems and preparedness measures to help residents during tornado outbreaks.
Flooding is a significant concern in Arkansas, especially in the low-lying areas along the Mississippi and Arkansas rivers. Heavy rains, particularly in the spring, can lead to river and flash flooding. The Mississippi Alluvial Plain is most vulnerable to flooding, and residents in these areas rely on levees and flood control systems to manage flood risks.
Although Arkansas has mild winters, it occasionally experiences winter storms that bring snow, ice, and sleet, particularly in the northern areas and higher elevations. These winter storms can disrupt transportation and power, though they are less frequent compared to states further north.
The highland areas, including the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains, experience cooler temperatures than the rest of the state. Elevations over 2,000 feet can lead to slightly lower temperatures, with more snow in winter. These regions also tend to have more moderate summer temperatures compared to the lowlands.
The Mississippi Alluvial Plain in eastern Arkansas has a warmer climate with high summer temperatures and humidity. This region receives some of the highest rainfall in the state, which supports its agricultural productivity, especially for rice, soybeans, and cotton.
In the southern part of Arkansas, the Gulf Coastal Plain experiences hot and humid summers with mild winters. This region also has high precipitation, supporting a variety of forests and agriculture. Due to its location, the Gulf Coastal Plain can be more affected by hurricanes and tropical storms originating from the Gulf of Mexico, though they typically weaken by the time they reach Arkansas.
The humid subtropical climate in Arkansas supports diverse agriculture. High precipitation and fertile soils, especially in the Mississippi Alluvial Plain, allow for the cultivation of rice, soybeans, corn, and cotton. The climate also supports livestock farming and poultry production, both of which are significant contributors to the state’s economy.
Arkansas’s climate supports extensive forests, covering nearly 56% of the state. The Ozark and Ouachita Mountains are primarily forested, with oak, hickory, and pine trees. The humid environment fosters rich biodiversity, supporting deer, black bears, and numerous bird species, particularly migratory birds that rely on Arkansas’s wetlands and forests.
Like many regions, Arkansas faces potential impacts from climate change, including increased temperatures, more intense rainfall events, and shifts in seasonal patterns. These changes could affect agriculture, water resources, and natural ecosystems. Prolonged periods of heat could impact crop yields, while changes in precipitation patterns may increase the risk of droughts and flooding.
Efforts to study and mitigate these potential impacts are ongoing, with a focus on sustainable agricultural practices, forest conservation, and community preparedness for severe weather.
