Discover the long list of things to do in Russellville, Arkansas while you’re staying with us. Russellville is the largest city in, and the seat of, Pope County. We are located one hour outside of Little Rock, right along Scenic 7 Byway.

The scenic highway passes right by our front door, connecting us to the Ozark Mountains, the Ozark National Forest to the north, and the Oachita National Forest and Hot Springs National Park to the south.

Russellville is the perfect stop for comfortable lodgings if you’re looking to get out into the wilds of untouched natural beauty! It’s a quick drive from our hotel to all sorts of outdoor activities, from rock climbing, hiking, biking, canoeing, fishing, and so many more things to do in Russellville, Arkansas.

For more local information and guides, our hotel offers free newspapers in the lobby throughout the week. Pick up USA Today, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette or The Courier, a local Russellville paper. For up-to-date events and attractions, stop by the front desk for recommendations or tips!

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

With our location at the foothills of the Ozark Mountains, there are so many things to do in Russellville outdoors! The Ozark National Forest is a playground of hiking, trails, waterfalls, and over a million acres of forest. Hike Mount Magazine State Park for a sweeping view from the highest peak in Arkansas.

Visit Mount Nebo State Park in Dardanelle, a park closer to Russellville and our hotel. Mt Nebo State Park’s Sunrise and Sunset Points are perfect spots to watch the sun rise or set, with a bird’s eye view 1,350 ft in the air. For thrill-seekers, this park is one of the few places in Arkansas with a hang gliding launch point.

Just north of Russellville, guests can spend a day kayaking or canoeing at the beautiful Buffalo National River!

Fishing

The Arkansas River, which flows through Russellville is an ideal spot for anglers. Whether you’re experienced or a novice, try your hand at catching the native white bass that live in the river, or bream, crappie, and large-mouthed bass, all creating the ideal environment for sport fishing.

In keeping with this favorite thing to do in Russellville, the area is host to a variety of fishing tournaments throughout the year! The Bass Tournament in spring is an annual event that draws in visitors from around the country.

DISCOVER RUSSELLVILLE DOWNTOWN

Russellville’s historic downtown area spans eight blocks at the center of the city. The buildings in downtown are beautiful examples of late 19th and early 20th century architecture. Throughout the year, the city hosts a number of events and festivals to keep the downtown thriving.

The first Friday in March, June, September, and December is the Art Walk when local artists and musicians perform and display their works in downtown Russellville. During the spring and summer, the Farmer’s Market sells local produce, and the Summer Concert Series brings music to the downtown.

Check out the Russellville Downtown page for current and on-going events. No matter the time of year, there’s lots of things to do in Russellville, Arkansas.

OZARKS NATIONAL FOREST

Hotel Near Ozark National Forest

Our hotel is near the Ozark National Forest! 1.2 million acres of forest is right in our backyard, where sweeping views of greenery, cascading falls, and untouched natural beauty await.

The Ozark National Forest is spread across the Ozark mountain range and includes the state’s highest peak, Mount Magazine. From soaring peaks to underground discovery: this forest is also home to Blanchard Springs Caverns, a “living” cavern where stunning stalagmites and stalactites are still changing and reshaping over time. It’s easy to go for an afternoon adventure in the woods when you’re lodging near Ozark National Forest with us.

The forest has some of the state’s very best trails. The park is covered in over 300 miles of well-maintained trails, which range from easy and accessible day hikes to the Ozark Highlands Trail, a 165-mile trail which crosses the forest in one of the most scenic hikes in the country. Walk and camp along streams, high ridges, bluffs, and of course, through the forest’s towering hardwood trees.

Discover the Forest

Head north from our hotel near the Ozark National Forest along scenic Highway 7 into the forest. Making a left in Sand Gap onto Highway 123 will take you on a winding forest trail to the area around Haw Creek Falls, Pam’s Grotto and more. For more recommendations and itineraries, just stop by the front desk during your stay!

Russellville is the closest city to this woodland and mountain escape, and our hotel near the Ozark National Forest is a great place to stay if you’re looking for comfort and convenience. Enjoy a comfortable night’s sleep in accommodations close to the I-40, but far enough away for a peaceful stay. Whether you’re heading further into the forest or just stopping by, you’ll enjoy our breakfast buffet, outdoor pool, and on-site restaurant!

Book a room at Clarion Inn & Suites Russellville on our website for the lowest rate and best deals on a hotel near the Ozark National Forest!

MOTOCYCLE-FRIENDLY

Our Russellville hotel is the perfect place to stop during a motorcycle trip through Arkansas! With so many road trip friendly amenities available on site, in addition to our special motorcycle rate, you’re sure to enjoy a comfortable stay when you book at the Clarion Inn & Suites Russellville.

Motorcycle-Friendly Features

Our hotel offers a number of amenities designed to make your stay with us a relaxing affair. Bike groups will enjoy:

• Easy access to motorcycles

• On-site restaurant & lounge

• Bike parking right outside your door

• On-site bike wash station

• Large Swimming Pool and Patio area

• Complimentary breakfast

• Maps with suggested routes and attractions available

• Private meeting facilities