When I was living on the East Coast, my first taste of a New England fall was mind-blowing. I’d never seen trees so vibrant. Every day that September, October, and November, they seemed to explode a little more. It was the closest I’d ever come to the season, and I was in love.

When I left the East Coast, the falls were top of list when it came to things I’d miss about the Northeast. Thankfully, there’s a sizable comparison in Arkansas’ autumn. Every year come November, the reds, oranges, and yellows poke out in thrilling magnificence. It’s as if they’re truly most alive right before they disappear for the winter, laying their plans to come back greener than ever before.

If you’ve never been to Arkansas, I highly recommend a visit. Mark your calendar for a trip to Petit Jean State Park for some of the finest autumnal views in the South Central region. Grab a coffee from one of the mountain general stores, and poke around the museum and scenic routes for plenty of fall photo ops.

If it’s not too cold, head West to Dardanelle and set up camp at Mount Nebo. There are plenty of cabins for rent, but the real fun here is in the primitive camping. Gather up all your must-haves for the night, toss the non-essentials, and hike down into the basin for a truly rustic getaway. The stars alone are worth the walk.

CAMPING LIST:

Zero degree bag for chilly autumn nights
Beer and whiskey. Lots of it.
Lanterns, Flashlights
Cast iron skillet
Fixins for one-pot camping dip, campfire breakfast, and other gritty delicacies
T.P., or a GoGirl if you’re more of a glamper
S’mores kit
KICKER waterproof KPW bluetooth speaker + camping playlist
Hammock
Playing cards, Scrabble, Bananagram
Starfinder
Books, journal
Someone to snuggle up with

Now go find a pile of leaves to jump in! Because you’re never too old for leaf jumping.

love,