Winrock in Conway County, Arkansas — The American South (West South Central)

Arkansas's First State Park

Photographed By Darren Jefferson Clay, June 24, 2023

1. Arkansas's First State Park Marker

Inscription.
You are standing in a place that inspired establishment of Petit Jean State Park and the entire Arkansas State Parks system.

A Lasting Legacy
Dr. T. W. Hardison is considered the father of Arkansas State Parks. A long time resident of the mountain, his love for the Petit Jean's beauty and history led him to try to preserve many areas now within the park.

In 1923, his efforts were rewarded when the Arkansas Legislature and Governor Thomas McRae established Petit Jean State Park, Arkansas's first state park. An 80-acre tract, just downstream from Cedar Falls was the original area set aside.

Cedar Falls is one of the most identifiable and most photographed places in Arkansas. It is the heart of Petit Jean Mountain.

What does this place mean to you?

Please help preserve this beauty during your visit.

Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Parks & Recreational Areas.

Location. 35° 7.226′ N, 92° 56.072′ W. Marker is in Winrock, Arkansas, in Conway County. Marker can be reached from Petit Jean Mountain Road (Arkansas Route 154). Located within Petit Jean State Park at Cedar Falls Overlook. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Morrilton AR 72110, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance

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of this marker. Special Places to See (here, next to this marker); Geology of Cedar Creek Falls Overlook (here, next to this marker); Two Dominant Fossils of the Area (within shouting distance of this marker); Rock House Cave: Rock Art (about 800 feet away, measured in a direct line); The Old Pioneer Cabin (approx. ¼ mile away); Cement Sculptures by Dionicio Rodriguez (approx. 0.7 miles away); The CCC at Petit Jean State Park (approx. ¾ mile away); Civilian Conservation Corps and the Building of Arkansas's First State Park (approx. ¾ mile away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Winrock.

Photographed By Darren Jefferson Clay, June 24, 2023

2. Arkansas's First State Park Marker

Credits. This page was last revised on October 4, 2023. It was originally submitted on September 29, 2023, by Darren Jefferson Clay of Duluth, Georgia. This page has been viewed 67 times since then and 10 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on October 3, 2023, by Darren Jefferson Clay of Duluth, Georgia. • Andrew Ruppenstein was the editor who published this page.