North Little Rock has many beautiful parks that offer residents and visitors outdoor spaces to relax, play sports, and enjoy nature. From larger urban parks with lakes and trails to smaller neighborhood parks, the city has something for everyone. This article explores 10 of the top parks in North Little Rock and what each has to offer.
North Little Rock is located just across the Arkansas River from Little Rock, the capital city of Arkansas. With a population of over 60,000, North Little Rock has developed an excellent parks and recreation system over the years to serve its residents. The parks are well-maintained and offer residents green spaces, trails, sports facilities, lakes and more to enjoy year-round. Whether you enjoy a morning jog through the trails, taking the kids to the playground, or relaxing by the lake, North Little Rock’s parks have something for every taste.
This guide covers 10 of the top parks in North Little Rock based on amenities, size, popularity and things to see and do. Larger regional parks as well as smaller neighborhood parks are included to represent the diversity of parks available across the city. Read on to discover your new favorite park in North Little Rock!
Burns Park
At over 300 acres, Burns Park is one of the largest and most popular parks in North Little Rock. Located along the Arkansas River, the park has over 7 miles of paved and natural surface trails that wind through forests and along the river. Joggers, bikers, and walkers enjoy the peaceful scenery throughout the day. Near the entrance is a large playground and picnic shelters available to reserve.
The centerpiece of Burns Park is Lake William L. Fulcher, a 110-acre lake that is popular for fishing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. A 1.25-mile walk/bike trail encircles the lake. Those looking for more adventure can try climbing the 40-foot tall rock wall or hiking up 250 steps of the Burns Park Tower for panoramic views.
Other amenities include 12 lighted tennis courts, 6 soccer fields, 4 baseball/softball fields, and a 18-hole disc golf course. With so much to see and do for all ages, it’s no wonder Burns Park is one of the most beloved parks in North Little Rock.
Donald W. Reynolds Park
Located just north of downtown North Little Rock, Donald W. Reynolds Park sits on 400 acres along the Arkansas River. In addition to mountain biking and hiking trails, the park is notable for having one of the few off-leash dog parks in the area. The 13-acre fenced dog park has separate areas for large and small dogs and is a popular place for canine socializing.
Fishing is also a big attraction, as the Arkansas River provides opportunities to catch catfish, bass, and bluegill. Some fishermen prefer to try their luck from the newly built Dockside fishing pier that extends 120 feet into the river. Picnic shelters, playgrounds, and open grassy areas make Reynolds Park a perfect place for families as well.
History buffs will want to check out the museum and memorial honoring fallen soldiers from Arkansas. Trails pass historic ruins and interpretive signs explaining the park’s former use as a munitions plant during World War II. With such a mix of recreational, cultural and natural features, Donald W. Reynolds Park has something to enjoy for visitors of all interests.
Two Rivers Park
Nestled between the Arkansas and Mississippi Rivers, Two Rivers Park makes the most of its unique location. At 725 acres, it is one of the largest urban parks in the state. Within the park you’ll find large open meadows, dense woodland,nature trails, lakes, wetlands and more.
A highlight is the 7-mile long Big Dam Bridge Trail, which allows pedestrians and cyclists to cross high above the Arkansas River Gorge on the largest pedestrian/bicycle bridge in North America. Birdwatchers love using the trail to spot bald eagles, herons and other species that flock to the rivers. You may even spot beavers, otters and more in the park’s lakes and wetlands.
For those looking for more active recreation, Two Rivers Park has mountain biking and hiking trails of varying difficulty, 6 soccer fields, a Frisbee golf course, tennis courts, picnic areas and playgrounds. Come visit and you’ll understand why this unique riverfront park is such a special green oasis in North Little Rock.
Lakewood Park
Conveniently located less than a mile from downtown North Little Rock, Lakewood Park centers around its namesake lake. Spanning 52 acres, the lake attracts water birds, turtles and fish and offers a peaceful backdrop while walking the shoreline trail.
Besides enjoying the scenery, visitors can rent kayaks, stand-up paddleboards or pedal boats from the marina to explore the lake themselves. Those seeking even more tranquility may want to visit the Labyrinth Garden – a place of reflection laid out in a classical seven-circuit design.
When the kids need to burn off some energy, they’ll enjoy the playground structures and open playfields. Other amenities include lighted tennis and basketball courts, picnic areas and a pavilion available to reserve for events. As one of the older parks in North Little Rock, Lakewood Park continues to be a local favorite after over 75 years.
Fourche Creek Linear Park
Stretching for four miles through central North Little Rock, Fourche Creek Linear Park follows the paths of Fourche Creek and the Arkansas River. Visitors can access points along Park Hill Drive, Fair Park Boulevard, Daisy Bates Avenue and other streets to explore sections by foot or bike.
In addition to paved trails, sections wind through natural riparian forest offering glimpses of native plants and wildlife. Interpretive signs explain how the creek and surrounding floodplains functioned as an important ecosystem before development. Today the park provides green space and trails for nearby neighborhoods, while helping absorb floodwaters and filter runoff.
Visitors will spot public art installations, playgrounds and picnic areas within the linear park. It’s a nice spot for a leisurely stroll, jog or bike ride through a mix of natural and urban settings. And with multiple entry points, you can experience Fourche Creek Park a bit at a time.
Old Rock Quarry Park
Nestled in a residential area of North Little Rock, Old Rock Quarry Park centers around a 14-acre lake formed in an abandoned quarry pit. Visitors will find walking trails circling the peaceful water, where fish, turtles and waterfowl live.
Beyond the lake, hiking trails lead uphill through scenic woodlands carpeted with spring wildflowers. Birders may spot migratory songbirds finding shelter in the dense foliage. Picnic shelters, playground equipment and open playfields provide spaces for family gatherings and recreation.
History buffs will want to check out monuments describing how the quarry extracted and shaped millions of tons of rock used locally in construction. Even after being reclaimed by nature, the park preserves evidence of the area’s industrial past. It remains a green oasis appreciated by the surrounding neighborhood.
Riverfront Park
Located along the Arkansas River at downtown North Little Rock, Riverfront Park provides direct access to the waterfront. Visitors wandering the walking paths will find scenic views across the river to Little Rock and trails extending to nearby parks. Popular spots include the new pedestrian bridge allowing picturesque views downstream.
Events and entertainment often take place in the park, such as concerts, festivals and farmers markets. A large pavilion lined with public art offers a shaded respite. Nearby outdoor fitness equipment allows informal exercising with scenic river views. Other amenities include playgrounds, picnic areas and landscaped riverfront gardens.
As development continues to draw people to downtown North Little Rock, Riverfront Park remains the crown jewel providing a natural oasis amid the urban landscape. It serves as a connecting hub between parks, while granting straightforward enjoyment of the Arkansas River.
North Hills Park
In the northern reaches of North Little Rock surrounded by neighborhoods sits the 45-acre North Hills Park. Visitors are greeted by a large playground with equipment to suit a range of ages, as well as open playfields. Nearby basketball and tennis courts accommodate active recreation.
Trails wind through forested hills offering forest bathing amongst the hardwoods and pines. Picnic shelters nestled throughout the park provide shaded spots to enjoy meals outdoors. Nature lovers will want to explore the Butterfly Garden planted with nectar-producing plants to attract winged visitors through migration season.
North Hills Park remains a beloved neighborhood park appreciated for its trees, hills, trails and facilities serving nearby residents. Whether escaping for solitude in the woods or active play with children and pets, it suits a variety of relaxation and recreation needs.
Shirley Park
Located south of downtown North Little Rock in a primarily residential area, Shirley Park is a serene 12-acre community park. Visitors will find trails circling a small lake teeming with ducks and turtles. Benches provide spots to watch the birds or gaze over the water.
Playground equipment and playfields accommodate children and families visiting the park. Open grassy areas allow space for flying kites, throwing frisbees or impromptu games of soccer or tag. Nearby picnic shelters offer shaded spots for breaking out snacks or meals.
Due to its smaller size, Shirley Park remains a neighborhood favorite offering accessible natural beauty within a short walk or drive. It serves as a backyard escape appreciated for its subtle charms and accommodating both active and laid-back enjoyment.
Conclusion
Whether seeking adventure or quiet relaxation, North Little Rock’s extensive parks system has something for everyone. From massive regional parks covering hundreds of acres to smaller neighborhood parks, these 10 highlights offer a taste of the natural beauty and recreation opportunities available throughout the city. Residents are truly fortunate to have such well-maintained green spaces providing fresh air, scenery and activities.
If your travels bring you through North Little Rock, be sure to spend time exploring at least a few of these top parks. You may find a new appreciation for the outstanding parks and public lands enhancing quality of life here. With such a diversity of environments from busy play areas to peaceful nature trails, these green spaces will continue serving residents and visitors for generations to come.