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Aug 11, 2023
Close view of several rows of cubes of fudge. | Things to do around Conway, AR | Crain Kia of Conway

Looking for free things to do near Conway, AR? There are plenty of options to keep you occupied that won’t break the bank. Whether you want to take in local culture or find your bliss in nature, Conway is a wonderful place to get out and explore without having to spend money. Below are five popular, free (or extremely low-cost) options.


1. Woolly Hollow State Park

Located in nearby Greenbrier, Arkansas on 82 Woolly Hollow Rd., Woolly Hollow State Park is a premier spot to take in stunning views of the Ozark Mountains or enjoy everything the 40-acre Lake Bennett has to offer. Swimming, fishing, and hiking are all common at Woolly Hollow State Park, and it is also the perfect spot to go for a picnic.

Although you will have to pay the nominal price of admission to the park, everything else you can do there is totally free.


2. Cadron Settlement Park

The historic Cadron Settlement Park located at 6200 Hwy 319 W, is an excellent area to go hiking or enjoy beautiful views of the Arkansas River. If you are a history buff, you may be interested in the Cherokee Trail of Tears exhibits at this park.

If you want to go out on the river, there is a convenient boat ramp, and there are also several picnic areas to enjoy if you work up an appetite while hiking. Why not load up your Kia Sportage with your favorite outdoor gear and head on over to Cadron Settlement Park. You won’t be dissapointed with this member of the Arkansas Historic Trails System!


3. The Village at Pickles Gap

This Conway mainstay is nestled in the Ozark foothills at 315 Hwy 65 North and features a quaint shopping village that sells some of the best fudge in the state, as well as a flea market area where you can browse through some unique and uncommon items.

Of course, you do not have to purchase anything at this popular stop and are free to simply walk around check out what they have. Plus, the snack shop at Pickles Gap offers free samples of fudge for you to try, and their fudge comes in 21 flavors.


4. Downtown Conway

The heart of the community in Conway exists downtown, where you can walk past cute buildings, stop into locally owned shops, take pictures in front of beautiful murals, and immerse yourself in the local culture.

The flowers planted throughout downtown are a sight to see in the spring, and so are the holiday decorations in December. Plus, the downtown area’s Simon Park located at 805 Front St. frequently hosts free concerts performed by the Conway Symphony Orchestra.


5. Lake Beaverfork

There is no shortage of things to do at the 25-acre Lake Beaverfork Park located at 20 Kinley Dr. There is a playground for kiddos, a boat ramp, a swim beach, a disc golf course, a baseball field, a sand volleyball court, and much more! It’s an ideal location for outdoor recreation enthusiasts and anyone in the area wanting to sit back, relax, and enjoy nature.

Day trips that fit into your budget are easy to come by in Conway. Be sure to try out some of the free attractions the area has to offer. Once you’re done exploring, stop into Crain Kia of Conway to find the perfect car for your next adventure!

Image via Pixabay.