We've scouted out some of the truly fantastic family fun adventures in Arkansas, and listed them below.

CENTRAL

Conway

Pickles Gap Village

Gina's Jewel Restaurant & Fudge Shop, Mack's General Store, Pickles Gap Creek Gourmets/Gifts & Baskets, Mack's Knife Shop, the Pickin' Porch Music, Precious Memories in the Village Store, and Kiddie Land. U.S. 65, north of Conway. 501-329-9049. www.picklesgap.com.

Greenbrier

Horseshoe Mountain Bison Ranch

A working bison ranch with a visitor center that features a continuous video presentation, computer station with a user-friendly program to provide useful information; test your bison IQ; gift shop; snack bar offering buff dogs, burgers and BBQ with picnic area. Baby buffs are here May-Oct. 61 Lagasse Lane. (501) 679-5553. www.horseshoe-mt-bison.com.

Riddle's Elephant & Wildlife Sanctuary

Facility dedicated to the preservation of African and Asian elephants. Tours available during Open House, held the first Saturday of every month, 11 am-3 pm. Ark. 25 off U.S. 65 N. 501-589-3291. www.elephantsanctuary.org.

Woolly Hollow State Park

40-acre Lake Bennett is one of the best swimming and fishing holes in central Arkansas. Canoes, pedal boats, fishing boats and motors are for rent. Boating is limited to electric motors; a launch ramp is available. A snack bar and bathhouse are near the swimming beach. You'll also find campsites, picnic area, pavilion, and a trail encircling the lake. The Woolly Cabin, the log home of the area's first settlers, offers a historic perspective to the beautiful hollow.

Take Exit #125 off I-40 at Conway and travel 12 miles north on U.S. 65, then six miles east on Ark. 285. 501-679-2098. www.ArkansasStateParks.com

Little Rock

Aerospace Education Center and IMAX Theater

IMAX films shown in 300-seat theater. "Right Stuff" gift shop offers science-oriented toys and kits. Displayed airplanes include Wright Flyer and Sopwith Camel, the only one in the U.S. and one of only seven worldwide. Full-size replica of Apollo command module. 3301 E. Roosevelt at Bond St. 501-371-0331 or 501-376-IMAX. www.aerospaced.org.

Little Rock Zoo

Over 600 mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians on display in the spacious grounds and in WPA-era buildings. One Jonesboro Dr., War Memorial Park. 501-666-2406 or 501-663-4733. www.littlerockzoo.com.

Museum of Discovery

This hands-on science center occupies 44,000 square feet of exhibit space in the city's Museum Center. The museum has a large technical area, projects for children to build, a forest ranger station, a history of science exhibit and much more. Gift shop. 500 E. Markham. 501-396-7050. www.amod.org.

Pinnacle Mountain State Park

This day-use park has a rich diversity of habitats, from the spectacular view from the 1,011-foot peak of Pinnacle Mountain to huge, 600-year old bald cypress trees in the bottomlands along the Big and Little Maumelle Rivers. You will also find the Arkansas Arboretum, a 71-acre site exhibiting examples of native flora representing Arkansas's six natural divisions. Trails, programs and events are offered throughout the year. The park includes a visitor center with exhibits, a meeting room and gift shop, picnic sites, pavilion, launch ramps and hiking trails. Two trails are barrier-free. Camping is available beside the Arkansas River at Maumelle Park, just two miles east on Pinnacle Valley Road.

Take Exit #9 off I-430 at Little Rock and travel seven miles west on Ark. 10, then go two miles north on Ark. 300. 501-868-5806. www.ArkansasStateParks.com.

University of Arkansas at Little Rock Planetarium

Various shows throughout the year including monthly skywatch weekends. A Minolta star projector, simulating night skies from a variety of locations on earth, is featured at the Planetarium. 2801 S. University. 501-569-3277. http://planetarium.ualr.edu/.

North Little Rock

Wild River Country

New to the 23-acre park is The Cyclone. The ride features a four-seat floatable raft that takes its passengers on a wild water ride, shooting through tunnels along the way. The Cyclone joins the existing rides -- Vertigo, the Pipeline, Vortex, the Accelerator and Black Lightning and White Lightning -- in providing water fun for the entire family. Other attractions include the Lazy River, the River Rapids, the Wave Pool, the Tidal Wave and the Lily Pad Walk. And the Tad Pool offers 11 areas for children. Wild River is located at Interstate 40 & Crystal Hill Road in North Little Rock. I-40 and Crystal Hill Rd. 501-753-8600. www.wildrivercountry.com.

Scott

Plantation Agriculture Museum

Exhibits and programs interpret the history of cotton agriculture from 1836 through World War II when agricultural practices quickly became mechanized. See early cultivation tools, the blacksmith shop and rare cotton gins and unique exhibits.

The museum is at the junction of U.S. 165 and Ark. 161 in Scott. 501-961-1409. www.ArkansasStateParks.com.

Scott Plantation Settlement

Various buildings from the surrounding area have been assembled here, depicting a typical Arkansas plantation; includes a hand-hewn cypress corncrib, an 1840s log cabin, a wash house, several tenant houses and a blacksmith shop. Small fee for tours offered every third Saturday 1:30-2:30 p.m. Toward the front of the settlement, there’s a Civil War Marker explaining the Battle of Ashley’s Mills, part of the campaign conducted by Union General Frederick Steele that led to the fall of Little Rock in 1863. Intersection of Alexander and Walkers Corner Roads off U.S. 165. 501-961-9847 or 501-225-2551.

Toltec Mounds Archeological State Park

This National Historic Landmark preserves and interprets Arkansas's tallest Native American mounds. These mounds and the earthen embankment are the remains of a large ceremonial and governmental complex inhabited from A.D. 600 to 1050. Site tours are available along the park's 3/4-mile barrier-free trail and new 1.6-mile turf trail. Programs are available for children and adults. Facilities include a visitor center with exhibits, an A/V theater and an archeological research laboratory.

From Little Rock, take Exit #7 off I-440 and go nine miles southeast on U.S. 165. 501-961-9442. www.ArkansasStateParks.com.

DELTA

Helena

Helena Reach River Park

Picnicking and fishing are available in this park on the shores of the Mississippi River. Elevated boardwalk leads to dramatic view of the mighty stream Mark Twain made legendary. Riverfront.

Lake Village

Lake Chicot State Park

The Mississippi Delta's quiet beauty and abundant recreational opportunities come together on Arkansas's largest natural lake. This 20-mile long oxbow lake is a peaceful site for wildlife watching, fishing and boating. Located in the Mississippi Flyway, the park offers outstanding birding. Park Interpreters host swamp tours, levee tours and programs for viewing a wide variety of birds and other wildlife. The park's Levee Driving Tour has received acclaim by National Geographic Magazine and others. The visitor center presents area history and natural resources through exhibits and programs. Nestled in a pecan grove, the park offers camping, cabins, picnicking, pavilions, a pool and playground. You'll find food and gifts at the store/marina plus boats, motors, fuel, bait and a launch ramp.

The park is eight miles northeast of Lake Village on Ark. 144. 870-265-5480. www.ArkansasStateParks.com.

Newport

Jacksonport State Park

During the 1800s, steamboats made Jacksonport a thriving river port; in 1869 a dramatic, two-story brick courthouse was constructed. Today, Jacksonport is dominated by the beautifully restored courthouse, which includes exhibits of Jackson County's rich history. The landscaped courthouse lawn leads to the river's edge where the Mary Woods No. 2, a sternwheel riverboat, has been faithfully restored. Programs and tours are available year-round. The park also has campsites, a swimming beach, pavilion, picnic sites and the Tunstall Riverwalk Wildflower Trail.

The park is on Ark. 69 in Jacksonport, just three miles north of Newport. 870-523-2143. www.ArkansasStateParks.com.

Parkin

Parkin Archeological State Park

Parkin, a National Historic Landmark, interprets the Mississippian Period Native American village located here from A.D. 1000 to 1550 and visited by the Hernando de Soto expedition in 1541. The park offers site tours and other programs year-round. During summer and fall, visitors on guided walks can observe archeological excavations. Parkin's visitor center includes an exhibit area, archeological laboratory, gift shop, picnicking and playground. The park is located at the junction of U.S 64 and Ark 184 north in Parkin. 870-755-2500. www.ArkansasStateParks.com.

Wynne

Village Creek State Park

Relax in the lush forest of Crowley's Ridge. Five trails lead through the park's unusual vegetation including oak, sugar maple, beech, butternut and tulip poplar. The visitor center includes a theater and gift shop. The interpretive center offers a large meeting facility and The Discovery Room, featuring exhibits of prehistoric artifacts and wildlife of Crowley's Ridge. Interpreters offer walks, programs, concerts and events year-round. Fish for bass, bream, catfish and crappie in the park lakes. Launch ramps, boat docks, bait, fishing boats, electric motors and pedal boats are available late spring through Labor Day. There are campsites, cabins, picnicking, pavilions, playgrounds, baseball and multi-use fields, and a driving range.

Take Exit #242 off I-40 at Forrest City and go 13 miles north on Ark. 284. 870-238-9406. www.ArkansasStateParks.com.

OUACHITAS

Bismarck

DeGray Lake Resort State Park

Arkansas's only resort park is located along the shores of beautiful DeGray Lake. Restaurant, 96-room lodge and convention center, campsites, marina. 18-hole golf course, pro shop, nature trails, tennis courts, horseback rides, bike, boat and boat rentals. Northwest of Arkadelphia. 501-865-2801. For lodge reservations call 800-737-8355. www.degray.com.

Hot Springs

Arkansas Alligator Farm and Petting Zoo

See more than 300 alligators up to nine feet long. Petting zoo with deer, mini-zoo with mountain lions, museum, souvenir shop. 847 Whittington. 501-623-6172. www.hotspringsusa.com/gatorfarm.

Belle of Hot Springs

Take a cruise on beautiful Lake Hamilton aboard a 400-passenger riverboat. Sightseeing, lunch, dinner and dance. 5200 Central Ave. 501-525-4438. www.belleriverboat.com.

Ducks in the Park Tours

Sightseeing on land and water. 316 Central Ave. 501-624-3825.

Hot Springs Mountain Tower

A 216-foot observation tower atop Hot Springs Mountain. Two viewing levels. Spectacular view of Hot Springs National Park and the Ouachita Mountains and National Forest. Hot Springs Mountain Dr. 501-623-6035. www.hotsprings.org/things/attractions/.

Magic Springs Theme Park and Crystal Falls Water Park

The Plummet Summit, a great new water ride, joins The Gauntlet, a 109-foot-high suspended looping roller coaster. More than 25 other rides for families and children include the Arkansas Twister, a spectacular wooden roller coaster, and the Zig-Zag coaster. A popular summer concert series featuring nationally known entertainers adds to the excitement. Crystal Falls Water Park, designed in frontier Adirondack style, features 350,000-gallon wave pool, thrilling water-slide complex, relaxing lazy river, children's activity pool and family splash zone. Two major parks for the price of one. U.S. 70. 501-624-0100. www.magicsprings.com.

Lake Ouachita State Park

Known for the clarity of its water, Arkansas's largest lake stretches across 48,000 acres and has 975 miles of impressive mountainous shoreline. Swimming, skiing, scuba diving, boating and fishing for bass, bream, crappie, catfish, stripers and trout can be enjoyed in open waters and quiet coves. Guided lake tours take you to see eagles or glorious sunsets. The state park includes camping, picnicking, a marina, swimming, trails, a variety of programs, a visitor center with exhibits, and cabins with kitchens overlook the lake.

From Hot Springs, travel three miles west on U.S. 270, then 12 miles north on Ark. 227. 501-767-9366. www.ArkansasStateParks.com.

Mid-America Science Museum

Totally revamped museum has over 100 hands-on exhibits focusing on energy, matter, life and perception; perfect for any age group; laser show available for additional charge. 500 Mid-America Blvd, U.S. 270 West. (501) 767-3461; Toll-Free: (800) 632-0583.

National Park Duck Tours

Amphibious vehicles known as "ducks" take visitors on tours of the city and Lake Hamilton. 418 Central Ave. 501-321-2911 or 800-682-2044.

Panther Valley Ranch

Authentic western horse ranch offering scenic, guided horseback rides and hayrides. Overnight camping, cabins. Home to "The Witness," a Christian musical drama. 1942 Mill Creek Rd. 501-623-5556. www.panthervalleyranch.com.

Safari Falls Miniature Golf

18-hole miniature golf course overlooking Lake Hamilton; waterfalls, walk-through cave; life size safari animals amidst the ponds and trees. Open daily throughout the summer, weekends in the spring and fall; group rates available; located next to Funtrackers Family Fun Park; 2614 Albert Pike, U.S. 270 West. Phone: (501) 767-140 or (501) 760-5070. www.funtrackersfamilypark.com.

Malvern

Lake Catherine State Park

Located between Malvern and Hot Springs, this park is nestled in the Ouachita Mountains on the shore of Lake Catherine. Interpreters provide guided hikes, lake tours, programs and workshops during summer or by request year-round. Nestled along the shore are 17 fully-equipped cabins, plus, the park has lakeside camping, a launch ramp, pavilion, picnic sites, playgrounds, laundry, swimming, gift shop, guided horseback trail rides during summer months and hiking trails.

Take Exit #97 off I-30 at Malvern and travel 12 miles north on Ark. 171. 501-844-4176. www.ArkansasStateParks.com.

Mena

Queen Wilhelmina State Park

Located atop Rich Mountain along the Talimena National Scenic Byway. Lodge, restaurant, campsites, picnic areas, trails, Arkansas Native Plant & Wildlife Center, and miniature golf course. Ark. 88, west of Mena. 501-394-2863. For lodge reservations call 800-264-2477. www.QueenWilhelmina.com.

Mount Ida

Caddo River Cabins and Trail Rides

Horseback trail rides and cabins along the scenic Caddo River. 870-334-3248. www.angelfire.com/ar/CRR.

Mount Ida/Hot Springs/Jessieville

Quartz Crystal Mines/Rock Shops

Mount Ida/Hot Springs/Jessieville area mines allow visitors to dig for quartz crystals for a fee. Numerous area rock shops sell quartz and a wide variety of other rocks and minerals. 870-867-2723. www.mtidachamber.com/quartz-crystals.htm.

Murfreesboro

Crater of Diamonds State Park

The world's only diamond-bearing site open to the public where you can prospect for and keep any gems you find. Diamond Springs, a new aquatic playground, will open at the Crater of Diamonds in the summer of 2004. Campsites, picnic sites, handicapped-accessible nature trail, gift shop, exhibits. Ark. 301. 870-285-3113. www.CraterofDiamondsStatePark.com.

OZARKS/NORTH CENTRAL

Bull Shoals Area

Bull Shoals-White River State Park

In the Ozark Mountains, you'll discover one of the nation's finest fishing and boating combinations: the White River and Bull Shoals Lake, a "fishing paradise." The White River, one of mid-America's premier trout streams, is famous for record rainbow and browns. Above the dam is 45,440-acre Bull Shoals Lake where anglers seek lunker bass, trout, catfish, crappie and bream. Below the dam along the river are the 105 campsites of the state park. The park also has, two "Rent-A-Camps," plus, you can "Rent-An-RV." Other facilities include picnic areas, pavilions, playgrounds and trails. A trout dock offers boat, motor and canoe rentals; supplies and equipment.

From Mountain Home, travel six miles north on Ark. 5, then eight miles west on Ark. 178 to the park. 870-431-5521 www.ArkansasStateParks.com

Mountain Village 1890/Bull Shoals Caverns

A working village from the 19th century, complete with authentic village structures, frontier characters and underground caverns. Off Ark. 178. 870-445-7177. www.1890village.com.

Top O' the Ozarks Tower

One of the most panoramic views of the lake and White River Valley from atop Bull Mountain may be enjoyed from this elevator-equipped tower. Ark. 178. 870-445-4302. E-mail: tower@southshore.com.

Mammoth Spring

Mammoth Spring State Park

Mammoth Spring, Arkansas's largest spring, flows nine million gallons of water hourly. Forming a scenic 10-acre lake, it then flows south as the Spring River, a popular trout and float stream. Near the spring, the beautifully restored 1886 Frisco depot and baggage room house exhibits depicting the active depot at the turn of the 20th Century. The water-powered electric generating plant from 1920 is intact and exhibits describe the operation. Pedal boats are available for use on the lake and a paved walking trail circles the lake. Other park facilities include an information center with exhibits on the area's rich history and natural resources, picnic sites, pavilion, trail and ball field. The park is on the National Register of Historic Places and is a National Natural Landmark.The park is on U.S. 63 in Mammoth Spring. 870-625-7364. www.ArkansasStateParks.com

Mountain Home

Norfork National Fish Hatchery

Learn how millions of trout are grown at the state's most productive trout facility. Children may try their luck at landing a rainbow at the hatchery's Dry Run Creek. Ark. 177. 870-499-5255. http://southeast.fws.gov/norfork.

Mountain View

Blanchard Springs Caverns

Ranked among the ten most outstanding in North America, it's the only developed cave system operated by the U.S. Forest Service. Open all year, with a restricted tour schedule during the winter months. Wild Cave Tours are open those ages 10 and above; a responsible adult must accompany ten- to twelve-year-olds. Off Ark. 14, north of Mountain View. 870-757-2211. www.fs.fed.us/oonf/ozark/recreation/caverns.html.

Ozark Folk Center

The only park in America devoted to the preservation of Southern Mountain folkways and music. This "living museum" state park perpetuates the traditional pioneer skills such as quilting, furniture making, blacksmithing, tin-type photography and some 15 other cabin crafts. Young Pioneers classes feature various pioneer skills, such as pottery, making scent sacks from dried herbs, spelling bees from the McGuffey Speller, play-party games, scavenger hunts for items important to everyday pioneer life, making ink from plants and Fox and Geese games with homemade boards and playing pieces. Two Youth Weeks are held each June and August where young visitors can spend an entire afternoon in hands-on participation in the crafts and skills demonstrated at park. Concerts, performed in the park's 1,000-seat music theater, feature instruments from the centuries past. The park also boasts a lodge, conference center, restaurant, archives, visitor center, gift shops and large herb garden. Off Ark. 5-9-14. 870-269-3851. For lodge reservations call 800-264-3655. www.ozarkfolkcenter.com.

Powhatan

Powhatan Courthouse State Park

Five beautifully restored structures on the National Register of Historic Places take you back to Powhatan's hey-day. During the mid-1800s, the town was a busy river port; later, prized "mother of pearl" button blanks were shipped worldwide. In 1888, a stately two-story courthouse with delicate woodwork and a classic Victorian cupola was built from red bricks made on-site. Five beautifully restored structures interpret Powhatan of the 1800s. The courthouse is a regional archive containing some of the oldest records in Arkansas, many of which predate statehood. Exhibits interpret the rich history of technology, politics and life styles that shaped north Arkansas. The park is on Ark. 25 in Powhatan. 870-878-6794. www.ArkansasStateParks.com

OZARKS/NORTHWEST

Eureka Springs

Belle of the Ozarks

Beaver Lake excursion cruises. Starkey Park, off U.S. 62 W. 501-253-6200 or 800-552-3803. E-mail: Viator@ipa.net.

Eureka Springs and North Arkansas Railway

Restored steam engines and passenger car rides. Lunch and dinner served aboard Eurekan Dining Car. Historic depot, snack bar, gift shop.

Scenic Ark. 23 N. 501-253-9623. www.esnarailway.com.

The Great Passion Play/Elna M. Smith Foundation Site

Outdoor drama depicting the last week of Christ's life on earth; late April through October. Nightly except Sunday, Wednesday. Also includes the seven-story-high Christ of the Ozarks statue; the Sacred Arts Center, with more than 1,000 exhibits; the Bible Museum; the New Holy Land, re-creations of Biblical sites include Moses' Tabernacle in the Wilderness; the Smith Memorial Chapel, a 10-foot section of the Berlin Wall, special monthly festivals and a nightly parade of banners, shops. 935 Passion Play Rd. 501-253-9625 or 800-882-7529. www.greatpassionplay.com.

Turpentine Creek Exotic Wildlife Foundation and Ranch

Over 200 lions, tigers, other exotic cats, bears. Ark. 23 S. 501-253-5841. www.turpentinecreek.org.

Gentry

Wild Wilderness Safari

Drive through to see about 200 species of animals; petting zoo. Safari Rd. off Ark. 59. 501-736-8383.

Prairie Grove

Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park

Noted as one of the best preserved battlefields in America; and listed on this National Register of Historic Places, you can see important battle sites along a self-guided driving tour or walk the Battlefield Trail. Guided tours are available. The life of a Civil War soldier is emphasized at the Battlefield Museum. Interpretive programs and exhibits depict the Civil War period and its impact on Northwest Arkansas. Arkansas's largest reenactment is hosted the first weekend of December each even numbered year.

The park is on U.S. 62 in Prairie Grove. 479-846-2990. www.ArkansasStateParks.com

Springdale

Arkansas and Missouri Railroad

Travel through the Boston Mountains from Springdale to historic Van Buren and back. Restored railway cars cross trestles and go through 1882 Winslow Tunnel. 306 E. Emma St. 501-751-8600 or 800-687-8600. www.arkansasmissouri-rr.com.

West Fork

Devil's Den State Park

Devil's Den is deep in an Ozark valley where you can explore caves, crevices and bluff overlooks. Interpreters provide hikes along miles of trails including the 15-mile Butterfield Hiking Trail, plus games and programs daily during summer. Lee Creek forms an 8-acre lake before cascading over a native stone dam. Hike, backpack, mountain bike or ride your own horses into the backcountry of the park and the surrounding Ozark National Forest. Camp, picnic, horse camp, cabins, pool, café, store, and visitor center with exhibits.

Eight miles south of Fayetteville on I-540 to Exit #53 (West Fork), then 17 miles southwest on Ark. 170. 479-761-3325. www.ArkansasStateParks.com

RIVER VALLEY

Morrilton

Petit Jean State Park

The flagship of the state parks system, this mountaintop retreat has cabins and newly-renovated Mather Lodge. Restaurant, swimming pools, campsites, boating and fishing on Lake Bailey, hiking trails, spectacular Cedar Falls. Stop in the visitor center where a touch-screen program anchors the exhibit area. Ark. 154, off Ark. 9. 501-727-5441. For cabin/lodge reservations call 800-264-2462. www.PetitJeanStatePark.com.

Van Buren

Arkansas and Missouri Railroad

A 70-mile scenic rail excursion through the Boston Mountains that departs from the Frisco Depot for round trip to Winslow. 813 Main. 800-687-8600.

www.arkansasmissouri-rr.com.

TIMBERLANDS

Smackover

Arkansas Museum of Natural Resources

In this unique Arkansas oil and brine industry museum you can walk the streets of an 1920s Arkansas boomtown, ride an elevator through undersea oil formation, try your luck at striking it rich, see 'the goat woman's wagon,' and walk through Oil Field Park to see working oil rigs.

On Ark. 7, two-miles south of Smackover. 870-725-2877

Star City

Cane Creek State Park

This 2,053-acre park is on timber-filled, 1,675-acre Cane Creek Lake. This is a recreation haven rich in flora, fauna and outdoor opportunities: hike through the gentle hills, fish for largemouth bass and kayak through tall timber, through water lilies and past huge beaver lodges. Birding and wildlife watching opportunities are excellent. Facilities include campsites, picnic sites, visitor center with exhibits and gift shop, launch ramp, barrier-free fishing piers, trail, bathhouse, rest rooms, playground and kayak rentals.

From Star City, go five miles east on Ark. 293 to the park. 870-628-4714. www.ArkansasStateParks.com

Texarkana

Discovery Place

Hands-on exhibits of science and history. 215 Pine. 903-793-4831. www.texarkanamuseums.org.

Photographer's Island

Pose with one foot in Texas, the other in Arkansas. State Line Ave.

Washington

Old Washington Historic State Park

Washington was an important stop on the famed Southwest Trail to Texas. James Bowie, Sam Houston and Davy Crockett came to Washington and James Black, a local blacksmith, is credited with creating the legendary Bowie Knife here. Later, the town became a major service center for area planters, merchants and professionals and Washington was the Confederate Capital of Arkansas from 1863 to1865. The state park interprets Washington from 1824-1889. Tours include visits to the Confederate Capitol, Blacksmith Shop, Weapons Museum and several residences. This historic village includes a print museum, steam-powered cotton gin and dining at the Williams Tavern Restaurant. The park also houses the Southwest Arkansas Regional Archives, a resource center for historical and genealogical research.

Take Exit #30 off I-30 at Hope and travel nine miles northwest on U.S. 278. 870-983-2684 www.historicwashingtonstatepark.com