Located a few miles northeast of Little Rock, the city of Jacksonville, AR, is a good base to explore the central part of Arkansas and check out some of the beautiful state parks that the region has to offer. Whether you are planning a day trip or a camping adventure, here are some fantastic nearby destinations you can reach within a couple of hour's drive from the Jacksonville downtown area. 1. Lake Charles State Park Covering about 140 acres and established in 1967 by the Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism, Lake Charles State Park offers a plethora of opportunities for outdoor sports enthusiasts looking for some great spots for fishing, camping, hiking, mountain biking, and swimming. Located just a few miles away from the city of Jonesboro, and not far from the Missouri state line, this public recreation area can be reached in less than two hours by car from Jacksonville. As the name indicates, the main attraction in this nature reserve is Lake Charles, an artificial reservoir constructed in the early 1960s for flood control purposes. The lake has become a popular summer destination among visitors from all over the region, as it offers some great amenities including well-equipped picnic areas, playgrounds, boat ramps, fishing docks, and an interpretive nature center. 2. Wooly Hollow State Park Located less than 60 miles north of Jacksonville, Wooly Hollow State Park is a great day trip destination, as it can be reached in about an hour by car. Covering a surface area of about 370 acres, this land was originally part of a private homestead owned by the Woolly Family, before being established as a state park in 1973. Currently managed by the Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism, it receives thousands of visitors each year. The most popular activities at Wooly Hollow State Park are fishing, boating, and swimming on the waters of Lake Bennett. This artificial body of water was constructed in the 1930s by the Soil Conservation Service, and now features several amenities including boat ramps, fishing spots, and a lifeguarded swimming beach during the summer months. Those looking for an active escape should check out the different biking and hiking trails along the Enders Fault area. nextpage 3. Petit Jean State Park Featuring some dramatic scenery, a series of waterfalls, and several miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, Petit Jean State Park is a top-rated destination for outdoor adventure lovers looking for a place to enjoy some time in nature and away from the routine. This public recreation area spans almost 3,500 acres and is managed by the Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism. Getting here from downtown Jacksonville takes a little over an hour by car along route I-40. Are you ready to hit the road and check out these great destinations? Before you set off on your next adventure, visit us at Crain Ford of Jacksonville and take a look at the extensive catalog of new and pre-owned vehicles we have in offer for you. Image via Pixabay