20 Summer Ideas for Families in the River Valley

Low-cost fun, sweet traditions, and hidden local gems for family days you’ll actually enjoy.

Summer in the River Valley is long, warm, and made for wandering. Whether you’re chasing shade, sunshine or just a quiet moment with your kids, here are 20 family-friendly ideas to help you make the most of it—all from someone who lives here and loves it gently.

Russellville

1. Explore Lake Dardanelle State Park
Enjoy the shaded playground or dip your toes in the lake. On a hot day—cool down at the visitors center and check out the fish tanks. Check their website for scheduled events for your nature loving kiddos led by the park rangers. Big kids (and grown ups) can rent a kayak and paddle around. Ice cream and Johnny Freeze treats are available for purchase.

2. Shop fresh and local at the Pope County Farmers Market
Open Tues/Sat near the train depot, this market features local produce, handmade goods, and friendly faces. Let the kids pick out their own fruit or a bouquet of sunflowers.

3. Splash pad at City Park
Shade is limited—bring a hat and water shoes. This one isn’t fenced so keep a watchful eye for toddlers who like to run!

4. Picnic at Old Post Park
Grab one of the shaded tables under a pavilion for a picnic lunch. The playground equipment can heat up midday so plan to visit in the morning hours and don’t forget your sunscreen.

5. $1 Summer Movies at the Russellville UEC Theater
Summer kids morning at the movies select Wednesdays at 10AM. Check their Facebook page for details. Get there early to grab a great seat.

6. Paint a magnet at Pottery Worx
You don’t need a big budget or a full afternoon—just walk in, pick a tiny pottery piece (like a magnet or figurine) and let the kids paint. Prices start low and the atmosphere is relaxed. A quiet, creative break on a hot afternoon.

7. Stroll the Summer Art Walk in downtown Russellville
This free evening event turns downtown into a sidewalk gallery. June 6th, downtown Russellville will be buzzing with art, local eats, and a fun twist—rock painting stations for all ages! Stroll, snack, and support local!

8. **Cool Off in Russellville – Pool Edition**
Whether you’re into diving boards and outdoor lounging at Hickey Pool or want a climate-controlled splash zone at the Russellville Aquatic Center, there’s water fun for everyone. Hickey is simple and affordable; the Aquatic Center is great for rainy days and birthday parties.

9. Try something new this summer—Pickleball
New courts are coming soon near the soccer complex in Russellville. Keep an eye out for the opening! Follow City of Russellville–Recreation and Parks on Facebook for updates. In the meantime, you can play at Old Post Park or Circle Drive Park.

Petit Jean / Morrilton

10. Spend a day at Petit Jean State Park, then treat yourself at Petit Jean Coffeehouse
Hike to Cedar Falls, let the kids climb and explore at the playground, or wander one of the scenic overlooks. Then head just down the road to Petit Jean Coffeehouse—a cozy mountain stop for handcrafted drinks and soft serve ice cream. Peaceful outdoor seating makes it the perfect post-hike pause.

11. Poolside with a View – Petit Jean Pool
The pool near the picnic area is open to the public. (The pool near the lodge is for guests only). Open Wed–Sunday from 12–6. Card and cash are both accepted here.

12. Visit Barnyard Friends Petting Zoo near Petit Jean State Park
This low-key petting zoo lets kids meet goats, pigs, donkeys, and more. It’s family-run and full of charm. Wear some shoes that can hose down easily and bring cash for entry.

Clarksville

13. Celebrate summer at the Johnson County Peach Festival
Attend the longest running festival in the state of Arkansas located in downtown Clarksville on the Courthouse Square. Plenty of kid friendly activities like pocket car races, frog jump, and face painting. Time your visit for the kids events by checking out the website. Don’t miss the live music on Friday and Saturday night!

14. Slide into summer at the Clarksville Aquatic Center
This one’s worth the short drive—water slides, a lazy river, splash pad features, and shaded picnic areas. Great for littles and big kids alike! No outside food or drink is allowed so eat before or plan to grab a snack from the concession stand.

Mount Nebo

15. Bike and swim at Mount Nebo State Park
Bring your own or rent from the visitor center (pack your own helmet). Stop at an overlook and pack a snack for the playground. After a bike ride, cool down at the Mt Nebo pool. Open Sat–Mon. It’s on the smaller side so be aware it can be at capacity on busy weekends.

Mount Magazine

16. Capture a family photo at the state’s highest elevation—Mount Magazine State Park
The visitor center has kid-friendly exhibits, clean restrooms, and nearby picnic spots with a breeze.

London

17. Pick blueberries at Renee’s Berry Farm (London)
A quiet morning with fresh air, fruit buckets, plenty of space and a sandbox for little feet. Check Facebook for picking hours and always call the machine before you drive out!

Lamar

18. Make a peach cobbler with fresh peaches from Peach Picking Paradise (Lamar)
Fresh Arkansas peaches can’t be beat in the summer. You can pick your own fruit or drive through for pre-picked.

Atkins

19. Cool down at Atkins splash pad
A small splash pad that’s fenced and great for smaller kids

County-wide

20. Spend an hour at the Pope County Library’s kid section (Russellville/Dover/Hector/Atkins)
Books, puzzles, and air-conditioning. Their summer reading program often has events—check their Facebook page.

Did I miss one of your favorite summer things? I’d love to hear about it in the comments!

☕ Need a pick-me-up after a day out with the kids?
Sip Local rounds up some cozy spots for coffee.