2025 SPG Arkansas State Guide

SPORTS

ARKANSAS GUIDE

Adventure in Arkansas All Year Long From water sports to mountain trails, Arkansas offers adventures for every season

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Arkansas Tourism Partners Assure a Successful Event www.SportsPlanningGuide.com

WELCOME TO ARKANSAS

Graced with temperate weather all year round, Arkans as is stunningly beautiful. Our terrain is one of the great unsung natural treasures of the nation, threaded with lakes and rivers and host to the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains.

Our thriving cities offer a wealth of family-friendly activities, a variety of restaurants and comfortable,

MO BENTONVILLE

ROGERS SPRINGDALE JONESBORO

FA Y E T T E V I L L E

convenient lodging. But even in our largest cities, Arkans as is still a budget-friendly sporting event

TN FORT SMITH

destination thanks to our low cost of living. With two major airports and several interstate highways

WEST MEMPHIS

R U S S E L LV I L L E C O N WA Y

NORTH LITTLE ROCK

OK HOT SPRINGS

LITTLE ROCK

connecting to surrounding states, Arkans as is close to everywhere

PINE BLUFF

and affordable for everyone!

MS TEXARKANA

All Welcome Centers offer complimentary coffee and multiple restroom stalls.

Open 9-5 everyday.

TX

LA

Come experience our warm hospitality and give your athletes and competitors a taste of The Natural State.

If you s aid to everyone in the United States, “We’re going to pick a spot right in the middle of where you all live, and we’re going to hold our sporting event there,” you would be talking about a place very close to

ARKANSAS .

CLOSE TO EVERYWHERE Branson to Little Rock Dallas to Little Rock Jackson to Little Rock Kansas City to Little Rock Memphis to Little Rock New Orleans to Little Rock Oklahoma City to Little Rock Shreveport to Little Rock St. Louis to Little Rock Tulsa to Little Rock

3.5 hours 5 hours 5 hours 6.5 hours 2 hours 7.5 hours 5 hours 3.5 hours 6 hours 4 hours

WELCOME TO THE NATURAL STATE, THE IDEAL LOCATION FOR YOUR NEXT SPORTING EVENT! Scan to discover more of what Arkansas offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com

Arkansas offers a central location in the mid-South, making it a convenient and affordable destination for events of all kinds. With great interstate connections, we’re just a short drive from most southern and midwestern cities. We’re also home to two major airports — Clinton National Airport (LIT) in Little Rock and Northwest Arkansas National Airport (XNA) in Bentonville — providing easy access from virtually anywhere. Once you’re here, you’ll discover that Arkansas offers a perfect mix of fast-paced excitement and laid-back charm, with stunning landscapes, a moderate climate and warm Southern hospitality.

If you need assistance planning your event, the Arkansas Sports Team is here to help! Representing 14 destinations across the state, our experienced team offers a wide range of facilities and expertise. Whether you’re hosting a triathlon or a tennis tournament, a mountain biking race or a martial arts showcase, Arkansas has the venue and resources to make it a success. We’re confident that Arkansas is the natural choice for your next sporting event. Learn more in the guide!

Sincerely, Dalaney and the Arkansas Sports Team

DALANEY THOMAS , Tourism Director

Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism 1 Capitol Mall, STE 3B-201 Little Rock, AR 72201 P: 501-682-7777 Arkansas.com

ON THE COVER: Arkansas is famed for its biking races.

Photo courtesy of Chase in Color and Life Time The sights of Arkansas are unmatched.

Photo courtesy of Arkansas Tourism

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All photos courtesy of Arkansas Tourism

Arkansas is a beautiful state in any season.

ADVENTURE

in Arkansas All Year Long From water sports to mountain trails, Arkansas offers adventures for every season

By Abriana Guerra

Arkansas is a year-round haven for outdoor enthusiasts and culture seekers alike. Whether it’s a biking adventure along Northwest Arkansas’ Razorback Regional Greenway or beholding the breathtaking views on a hike through Dardanelle’s Mount Nebo State Park, this picturesque state offers something for everyone. Join us as we explore Arkansas’ best destinations, where every season brings a new way to enjoy diverse landscapes and vibrant culture.

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Mount Nebo State Park is perfect for hiking and biking.

Northwest Arkansas

Discover the beauty of Devil’s Den State Park, where you can hike rugged trails and enjoy spectacular views of natural rock formations. The park also offers opportunities for rock climbing and picnicking. After your outdoor activities, relax at a local brewery in Fayetteville, sampling Arkansas-made craft beers while soaking in the gorgeous surroundings.

Less than a 30-minute drive north of Fayetteville, Springdale is a perfect destination to dive into adventure and local culture. Start on the Ozark Highlands Trail, where you can hike or mountain bike through stunning landscapes.

Afterward, explore the Springdale Historic District to discover charming buildings and learn about the city’s heritage.

The Razorback Greenway, which spans across Northwest Arkansas, provides exhilarating bike rides along its trails, which is also perfect for hiking enthusiasts. After a day outdoors, immerse yourself in culture at Bentonville’s Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, known for its impressive

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Sports Planning Guide

collection of artwork and iconic architecture set within 120 acres of native Ozark forest.

Nearby Rogers is a charming city, particularly for biking enthusiasts. No matter your level of experience, Railyard Bike Park is a great spot to test your skills. Follow the paved path down to Lake Atalanta Park or adventure off-road on the Pleasant Ridge multi-use trail. Learn about the city’s heritage at Rogers Historical Museum, then stroll through the quaint downtown area to discover unique boutiques, art galleries and inviting dining options.

Central Arkansas

Immerse yourself in American history in Little Rock by visiting William J. Clinton Presidential Library or Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site, a significant landmark of the Civil Rights Movement. Outdoors, explore the Arkansas River Trail, an impressive route that runs from

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The Old Mill in North Little Rock

Game Time at The Grounds complex in Cabot

the state capital to North Little Rock, ideal for walking, jogging or cycling with views of the city skyline.

Across the Arkansas River, North Little Rock blends outdoor recreation with local culture. Hike, bike, or fish at Burns Park, one of the largest city parks in the nation. Be sure to explore The Old Mill, renowned for its iconic water wheel and beautiful landscaping, which featured in the opening scenes of the classic film Gone with the Wind.

The City of Pine Bluff’s Delta Rivers Nature Center features interactive exhibits on the region’s ecosystems and conservation efforts. For local culture, check out Pine Bluff Arts and Science Center, which showcases rotating art exhibits and live performances, along with educational programming that focuses on S.T.E.A.M. - the intersection of S.T.E.M. and Art. For big-time tournaments and events, Game Time at The Grounds is set to expand sporting event opportunities across Arkansas and neighboring states. Situated within a

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sprawling 230-acre park in Cabot, the facility features over 128,000 square feet of indoor space with courts and non-infill turf fields. Their campus plan is to include outdoor spaces including a skatepark, biking and walking trails, a fishing pond, playgrounds and more.

Arkansas River Valley

Mount Nebo State Park makes Dardanelle a must-visit destination, offering a network of hiking trails that provide breathtaking views of the Arkansas River Valley below.

Whether you choose the challenging climb to the summit or a more leisurely path, the natural splendor and diverse wildlife make every hike memorable. The park also features picnic areas and campgrounds for those looking to spend more time immersed in nature.

Rich in history and natural beauty, Fort Smith offers diverse outdoor activities and cultural experiences. Start at Riverfront

Sports Planning Guide

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U.S. Marshals Museum in Fort Smith

Park, where trails along the Arkansas River are perfect for walking, jogging or biking and offer stunning natural scenery.

After your outdoor adventure, explore the rich history and legacy of the U.S. Marshals Service through interactive exhibits, historical artifacts and engaging stories at the U.S. Marshals Museum. Be sure to admire the city’s famous murals and public art, like the ASKEW Cherokee Mural and the adorable Rainbow Embassy.

Southwest Arkansas

Enjoy a cold-weather hike along scenic trails in Hot Springs National Park and explore the Ouachita Mountains to discover diverse wildlife. After your hike, unwind at one of the historic bathhouses on Bathhouse Row. Experience soothing thermal waters, a treatment cherished for centuries in the Hot Springs area.

Aptly named for its location along the border of Arkansas and Texas, start your visit to Texarkana at Texarkana Regional Arts and Humanities Council, where

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Sports Planning Guide

you can explore engaging art exhibits and local events that showcase the region’s talent. Afterward, relax at Spring Lake Park, a scenic area with walking trails, picnic spots and a serene lake ideal for fishing or paddle boating.

Northeast Arkansas

AGFC Forrest L. Wood Crowley’s Ridge Nature Center in Jonesboro is a gem for nature enthusiasts and families alike. Set within the unique Crowley’s Ridge ecosystem, the center features intriguing exhibits about the region’s diverse flora and fauna. Outdoor trails offer a chance to explore the natural beauty of the area, with opportunities for hiking and birdwatching in peaceful surroundings.

Located on the Arkansas State University campus, Bradbury Art Museum is a dynamic space for contemporary art. With rotating exhibitions across various disciplines and an active outreach program, the museum encourages the community to connect with and explore impactful artistic experiences.

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BENTONVILLE

KNOWN AS THE MOUNTAIN BIKE CAPITAL OF THE WORLD, BENTONVILLE IS A TOWN WHERE PROGRESS MEETS HISTORY AND SPORTS AND ARTS MEET INNOVATION. Bentonville Tiger Athletic Complex

CABOT

KNOWN AS THE YOUTH SPORTS CAPITAL OF THE MID-SOUTH, CABOT IS EVER EVOLVING. IT’S ALL HERE. The Grounds

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

1. Slaughter Pen Trails

1. The Grounds

The Slaughter Pen trails in Bentonville provide a unique urban mountain biking experience. The 40- plus miles of single-track flow alongside the paved Razorback Regional Greenway and

by Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, where the path is dotted with public art. The Slaughter Pen system includes trails ranging in difficulty from beginners to expert, with connector trails taking riders between the various hubs of the system.

This 128,000 sq. ft. venue is perfect for hosting tournaments and events of all sizes. It features 9 full-sized basketball courts, which easily transform into 17 volleyball or 27 pickleball courts, plus a large indoor turf field ideal for soccer, football, baseball, and more. With a year-round calendar of leagues, camps, and community events, it’s a top choice for athletes of all ages.

Visitors will also enjoy the lounge area, indoor café, and the versatility of the facility for various sports and tournaments.

Bike events

2. Memorial Park

Baseball, softball, tennis, biking, skateboarding Memorial Park is home to several sporting facilities, including a tennis complex with 12 lighted courts, five lighted baseball fields, six lighted softball fields and four T-ball fields. The soccer complex has seven lighted soccer fields and two multi-purpose fields. It has two basketball courts, four lighted sand volleyball courts, one multiuse skate and bike park, and an aquatic center featuring an Olympic size pool and a separate diving pool with a water slide.

3. Bentonville Tiger and West Athletic Complexes Baseball, softball, basketball, volleyball, soccer, track

Both complexes have numerous facilities, college-like stadiums, and indoor practice facilities. Events can seat over 6,000 people with over 232,000 square feet. Both feature courts, arenas, auxiliary gyms, and hardwood surfaces. There are also track/soccer stadiums; championship softball fields and Phillips Park, a 40-acre home to Bentonville High School and American Legion baseball teams.

VISIT BENTONVILLE

Seagan Morrow Sports Sales Manager 479-326-8310 seagan@visitbentonville.com

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Basketball, volleyball, pickleball, soccer, baseball

2. Cabot Sportsplex Baseball, football

The 50-acre Cabot Sportsplex is a must-visit for sports tourism.

Opened in 2016, it features eight lighted turf baseball fields, one full-size baseball field, two full-size football fields, and a 0.90-mile walking track. For some splashy fun, head to the on-site Cabot Aquatic Park, where three pools, a lazy river, water slides, and a kids’ splash zone provide endless entertainment. Rentable pavilions and full-service concessions make this complex perfect for hosting tournaments and events.

3. Allman-Bevis Sports Park Soccer, softball

For top-tier soccer and softball facilities, Allman-Bevis Sports Park delivers! This 42-acre park features four turf softball fields and the First Arkansas Bank Soccer Complex, with well-lit fields for all ages. Whether it’s daytime or evening play, this park has everything needed for tournaments, plus playgrounds, pavilions, and concessions to keep families entertained between games.

CABOT PARKS & REC

Travis Young Cabot Parks & Recreation Director 501-449-3001 tyoung@cabotparks.com

Sports Planning Guide

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CONWAY

WITH MORE THAN 1,200 HOTEL ROOMS, CONWAY HAS PLENTY OF SPACES FOR YOU TO REST YOUR HEAD AFTER ENJOYING A LONG DAY AT A TOURNAMENT.

FAYETTEVILLE

FAYETTEVILLE IS MORE THAN A CITY. IT’S AN EXPERIENCE. WHERE AERIEL ADVENTURES, GRAVEL ROADS, AND WATERWAYS MERGE. COME EXPERIENCE IT FOR YOURSELF.

Conway Station Park

Kessler Regional Park

Centennial Park

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

1. Conway Station Park

1. Kessler Regional Park

A top park in the state, Conway Station Park is home to eight fields with a 225-foot fence, while the final field features a 350-foot fence, giving sluggers an impressive challenge to aim for. This massive park is also equipped with its own concession stand, heated/cooled bathrooms, maintenance shed, and a beautiful pond.

This regional park is home to 6 lighted soccer, - 8 - lighted baseball fields, and - 3-restroom/concession buildings. On its 620 acres, the park is also home to historic Kessler Mountain. The park operates as a regional sports park with popular areas for mountain-bikers, hikers & runners, with more than 10 miles of natural-surface trails that tie back into the amazing Razorback Greenway trail system.

Baseball

2. City of Colleges Park Softball

The gorgeous layout of this lovely award-winning park in Conway allows enough room for five entire softball fields. After being completed in 2009, City of Colleges Park has become known as one of the top softball parks in the area. It also features a playground for children to enjoy. This park is also home to Central Baptist College, St. Joseph High School, and Homeschool softball.

3. Conway Tennis Center Tennis

This beautiful tennis center has eight courts where lessons, leagues, events and reservations are available for players to hone their tennis skills. If a reservation is made, the Conway Tennis Center even rents out ball machines for a small fee. The center is made up of eight courts surrounding two smaller buildings with bathrooms and lounging areas.

VISIT CONWAY

Rachel Shaw Executive Director 501-932-5409 rachel@conwayarkansas.org 10

Sports Planning Guide

Soccer, baseball, kickball, mountain-biking, hiking & running

2. Centennial Park

Cycling, running, RC racing & more Centennial Park at Millsap Mountain is a cycling-activated park with state-of-the-art cyclo-cross and mountain biking facilities. On top of this mountain there are 12 miles of soft surface trails, a pavilion with restrooms and parking for up to 90 with 2.5 additional acres for flex space as need for events. The mountain’s world-class cyclo-cross, mountain bike, and running courses include trails with multiple surfaces and features that build users’ skills.

3. AAO P. Whitaker Sports Center

Basketball, volleyball, pickle-ball, boccia ball, corn-hole, table tennis This sports facility is host to 11 standard courts that can be used for multiple sports. AAO has a total of 43,000 sq ft of space with bleacher seating on every court. There is an additional 1,800 sq ft training center on-site for use and a multi-purpose room with 1,800 sq ft of space.

EXPERIENCE FAYETTEVILLE Tina Archer-Cope Vice President of Sales 479-521-5776 sales@expfay.com

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FORT SMITH

FORT SMITH IS EASY TO REACH BY ROAD—OR BY SKY— AND OFFERS AN IDEAL MIX OF GROUP-FRIENDLY DINING, SHOPPING, AND ENTERTAINMENT Fort Smith Convention Center

HOT SPRINGS

ENJOY A RELAXING SPA VACATION GETAWAY IN HOT SPRINGS NATIONAL PARK, WHERE YOU CAN HIKE, SHOP AND ENJOY THE GREAT OUTDOORS. Bank OZK Arena

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

1. Fort Smith Convention Center

1. Bank OZK Arena

Volleyball, basketball, gymnastics, cheer, tennis, pickleball, dance, eSports, martial arts, cornhole, wrestling The infinitely flexible Fort Smith Convention Center offers 116,800 sq. ft. of usable event space and a state-of-the-art performing arts center just steps from downtown dining, shopping, and entertainment. The column-free, 40,000 sq. ft.

Exhibition Hall (divisible into 5 sections) features 34’ ceilings and accommodates up to eight (8) volleyball courts; eight (8) Tennis Courts; sixteen (16) pickleball courts; four (4) basketball courts.

2. Ben Geren Regional Park

Soccer, softball, tennis, disc golf, golf, mountain biking The expansive Ben Geren Regional Park offers a 12-field Soccer Complex; 10-field Softball Complex; 6-court Tennis Center; 27-hole Golf Course; three (3) 18-hole Disc Golf Courses; three (3) Sand Volleyball Courts; a premier Arkansas Mountain Biking Trail System (21+ miles). It is also home to Parrot Island Waterpark and a miniature golf course.

3. FS Baseball & Softball / Boys & Girls Club Baseball, softball, soccer, volleyball, basketball

Evans Club includes three (3) Baseball/Softball Fields; two (2) Indoor Basketball Courts; two (2) Outdoor Basketball Courts; one (1) Soccer Field. Goldtrap Club includes four (4) Baseball/ Softball Fields; one (1) Indoor Basketball Court; one (1) Soccer Field. Jeffrey Club includes three (3) Soccer Fields. Stephens Club includes three (3) Soccer Fields; one (1) Indoor Basketball Court; one (1) Outdoor Basketball Court.

FORT SMITH CVB

Amy Jones Director of Sales 479-788-6533 amy@discoverfortsmith.org SportsPlanningGuide.com

Basketball, cheer, volleyball, pickleball, concerts Bank OZK Arena seats 6,300 and is connected to the Hot Springs Convention Center, Hotel Hot Springs and Embassy Suites. Bank OZK Arena has hosted the Sunbelt College Basketball Championships, FLW Bass Fishing Tournament, Arkansas High School Basketball Championships, and more.

2. Oaklawn Hot Springs

Horse Racing, track and field, concerts Oaklawn is known for its 100 + year tradition of professional horse racing which is highlighted each season by The Arkansas Derby. The track’s infield has also proven to be a great setting for the Arkansas High School Cross Country Championships.

3. Majestic Park Baseball, softball

The Majestic Park Baseball Complex was specifically designed for youth baseball & softball tournaments and features five fields.

Three of the fields are 225 feet to center field, lighted, and fenced with artificial turf infields and outfields, as well as, stationary mounds.

4. Northwoods Trails Hiking, biking

The Northwoods Trails are located 5 minutes from Downtown Hot Springs. There are 32.5 miles of mountain bike trails that are also open to trail running and hiking. Four trailheads provide ample parking and facilities. The Northwoods has hosted the Gudrun Mountain Bike Festival and NICA Mountain Bike races.

VISIT HOT SPRINGS

Craig Durmon Sales Manager 501-321-2027 cdurmon@hotsprings.org Sports Planning Guide

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JONESBORO

FILLED WITH GIFT SHOPS, RESTAURANTS, ART GALLERIES AND A DAY SPA, JONESBORO HAS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE AFTER A LONG DAY AT A TOURNAMENT. Craighead Forest Park

LITTLE ROCK

THE NATURAL STATE’S CAPITAL CITY, LITTLE ROCK IS HOME TO FABULOUS SHOPPING, IMPRESSIVE ART GALLERIES AND SOME OF THE FINEST DINING IN ARKANSAS. Jack Stephens Center

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

1. Craighead Forest Park

1. Rebsamen Tennis Center

This 770-acre park opened in 1937 and in the last 20 years, the park has gone through numerous renovations improving the playgrounds (4) and RV campgrounds (41 spaces).Craighead features many popular outdoor activities such as basketball, hiking, disc golf, softball, volleyball, mountain biking, camping and fishing.

The Rebsamen Tennis Center is a tennis player’s utopia.

Open year round, the tennis center offers 17 lighted courts, three lighted backboards and is a past recipient of the USTA‘s National Public Facility of the Year Award. Rebsamen hosts Adult and Junior Arkansas tournaments, and the tennis center has hosted USTA Southern Region tournaments and an annual USTA Men’s Pro Circuit Tournament.

Basketball, hiking, disc golf, softball, volleyball, fishing

2. Joe Mack Campbell Sports Complex

Tennis

Baseball, soccer

2. Jack Stephens Center

The Joe Mack Campbell Sports Complex is home to 14-stunning baseball fields as well as 19 soccer fields. Right off Interstate 555, this complex has baseball fields that accommodate athletes from 7U to 14U leagues. Ten of the 14 fields have turf infields and manicured grass outfields. The complex also has its own batting cages. Soccer has 6 micro fields for 6U all the way up to high-school sized fields. Spectators can enjoy watching all the games in designated picnic areas around the complex with 4 full-function concession stands.

Basketball, wrestling

The $25-million Jack Stephens Center is a state-of-the-art 5,600-seat, multi-purpose arena at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. The Stephens Center hosts the school’s men’s and women’s basketball, women’s volleyball, the Boy’s and Girl’s State High School Wrestling Tournament, regional dance and cheer competitions, and the U.S. National Baton Twirling Championships.

3. Southside Softball Complex

Volleyball, Gymnastics, Martial Arts, Wrestling, Cheer and Dance

Softball

The Southside Softball Complex hosts the Mountain Dew Grand Slam Classic, the oldest youth tournament in the state of Arkansas. The complex has six batting cages and 10 softball fields, split between four pavilions. The softball complex also has two large and fully equipped concession stands for athletes and spectators to enjoy food at the ballpark. The fields are available day or night with updated lighting system installed in 2018.

JONESBORO PARKS AND RECREATION Danny Kapales, Director 870-933-4604 dkapales@jonesboro.org 12

Sports Planning Guide

3. Statehouse Convention Center

With 220,000 square feet of flexible meeting space located in the heart of Little Rock’s downtown convention and River Market district, the Statehouse Convention Center is just steps away from a free streetcar ride to a wide variety of restaurants, performing arts venues, world-class attractions and outdoor activities. The ultimate in versatility for conventions, exhibitions, special events and trade shows that are truly unique and memorable.

LITTLE ROCK CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU Mitchell Haskett, Sales Manager 501-370-3228 mhaskett@littlerock.com

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NORTH LITTLE ROCK PINE BLUFF EXPERIENCE THE URBAN OUTDOORS HERE! NATURAL BEAUTY MIXED WITH A BUSTLING ENTERTAINMENT AND DINING SCENE MAKES NORTH LITTLE ROCK A WINNING DESTINATION.

THIS ARKANSAS DELTA CITY IS EXPERIENCED IN HOSTING A VARIETY OF SPORTING EVENTS. BE SURE TO ENJOY THE MANY MUSEUMS AND ATTRACTIONS PINE BLUFF HAS TO OFFER. Pine Bluff Convention Center

Burns Park

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

1. Burns Park

1. Pine Bluff Aquatics Center

Soccer, lacrosse, flag football, tennis, baseball, softball, disc golf, pickleball, golf, cricket, BMX track, cross country With nearly 2,000 acres of multi-sport facilities and trails, Burns Park is the premier complex of the South. Home to 17 multipurpose irrigated flat fields split into four quadrants, each featuring permanent restrooms, pavilions and concessions. Tournament lighting on one quadrant with 2 cricket pitches, 2,500 bleacher seating, and 1,500 parking spaces available. Burns Park Tennis Center has 30 outdoor courts (18 lit), including a championship court and 6 junior courts, and indoor facility with 6 courts equipped with locker rooms, showers, restrooms, lounge, observation area, concessions, secured storage space and over 300 parking spaces.

2. North Little Rock Riverfront Park Bicycling, running, festivals, flex space

Located along the Arkansas River, Riverfront Park offers 3.3 acres of flexible event space backdropped with the beautiful Arkansas River.

There are two rentable sections with a paved stage pad, permanent restrooms, electricity and water on-site. Adventure races, festivals, cycling and running marathons are welcome with access to the paved Arkansas River Trail spanning 88 miles.

3. Stone Links Park

Disc golf, cross country, cricket, festivals, flex space Stone Links Park is a new disc golf complex that has four basic tracks ranging from 5,500 – 9,000 feet with multiple tee pads and basket placement. There are two flat fields available equipped with cricket pitches. This complex is cut from prairie grass making it ideal for all events that require a flexible open outdoor space.

NORTH LITTLE ROCK TOURISM

Shelbey Morris, Senior Manager of Sales and Partnerships 501-404-0397 shelbey@northlittlerock.org SportsPlanningGuide.com

Swimming

Located in the heart of Pine Bluff, the $11 million 36,000-square-foot center offers first class facilities including an eight-lane, 25-yard short course competition pool with water maintained at 82 degrees, state-of-the-art timing scoreboard, a therapy pool, water sports area, and can accommodate up to 1,600 people.

2. Taylor Field Baseball Stadium Baseball

Taylor Field Baseball Stadium is a regulation-size baseball field featuring a U-shaped grandstand that holds 1,800 seats behind home plate. The stadium was constructed in 1939 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It seats 2,400 and reaches 315 feet to the right and left field foul poles, 360 feet in left centerfield, and 390 feet to the deep corner in centerfield.

3. Pine Bluff Convention Center

Basketball, gymnastics, wrestling, boxing Home of the world-renowned King Cotton Holiday Classic basketball tournament, this impressive center features a 23,000-square-foot arena with tiered seating for up to 7,600.

Recent upgrades include the latest in audio visual technology such as overhead communications module with live video feed, replay, and broadcast, 12-foot videoboards, 18-foot digital scorer’s table, NCAA-approved lighting, renovated restrooms and dressing rooms, and adjoining concourses with flat-screen monitors and concession stands.

EXPLORE PINE BLUFF

Sheri Storie Executive Director 870-534-2121 sstorie@explorepinebluff.com Sports Planning Guide

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ROGERS

THIS VIBRANT OUTDOOR COMMUNITY FEATURES GLISTENING LAKES, MUSEUMS OVERFLOWING WITH ARTWORK, AND A VARIETY OF RESTAURANTS FOR ALL TASTES.

RUSSELLVILLE

SITUATED NEAR THE ARKANSAS RIVER, THIS CITY OFFERS 23 PARKS, SOCCER, SOFTBALL AND BASEBALL COMPLEXES AND PLENTY OF OUTDOOR OPPORTUNITIES. Lake Dardanelle State Park

Matrix Racquet Club

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

1. Matrix Racquet Club

1. Russellville Soccer Complex

Located right across the Rogers city line in Lowell, Matrix Racquet Club offers high-quality tennis facilities for camps, tournaments and events. With both indoor and outdoor courts, the facility is perfect for year-round events. The facility features 12 tennis courts, the ability to have 56 pickleball courts simultaneously, three padel courts, a café, and a health club.

Russellville Soccer Complex has multiple soccer fields for tournament play and plenty of open space for outdoor activities. The park has a 1.1-mile trail that can be used for running and walking. The path is also paved so it’s ADA accessible. The soccer complex has 3 lighted fields.

2. Rogers Regional Sports Park/Veterans Memorial Park

Fishing, hiking, camping

Tennis, padel, pickleball

Softball, baseball, kickball, football, soccer, lacrosse

Rogers Regional Sports Park features six baseball/softball fields, a water fountain in every dugout and a designated warm-up area for each team along with a central concession stand. Veterans Memorial Park features two baseball fields, two softball fields, five grass multi-purpose fields, and one turf multi-purpose field.

3. Beaver Lake

Fishing, boating, swimming, scuba diving, kayaking Beaver Lake, a 28,370-acre freshwater lake, is located in the beautiful Ozark Mountains and is a popular place to boat, camp, fish, scuba dive, canoe, wake board, kayak, stand up paddle board, and swim.

4. Arkansas Athletes Outreach

Basketball, volleyball, cheer, dance, wrestling, table tennis, flag football, lacrosse

Soccer, hiking

2. Lake Dardanelle State Park This park is located in two areas on Lake Dardanelle, a 34,300 acre reservoir on the Arkansas River. It features a fishing pier, boardwalk trail and visitor center with five aquariums and the Lakeview Room meeting facility. There are 57 campsites in the Russellville area of the park. The park is also a National Park Service-certified site on the Trail of Tears water route.

3. Pleasant View Park, Shiloh Park, M. J. Hickey Park Baseball, softball, swimming

Pleasant View Park and Shiloh Park have 6 softball fields with covered pavilions, restrooms and a dog park.

The 7-field M.J. Hickey Park baseball complex has 3-lighted pavilions, restrooms, picnic tables and a 50-meter municipal swimming pool. The baseball and softball fields all feature benches, barbeque grills and picnic tables so fans can eat heartily while enjoying the action.

Arkansas Athletes Outreach is a newly built indoor/outdoor facility that features four indoor multi-purpose courts and two outdoor 100-yard grass fields.

DESTINATION ROGERS Dane Clark Sales & Service Manager 479-619-3196 dane@rogerslowell.com 14

Sports Planning Guide

RUSSELLVILLE TOURISM & VISITORS CENTER

Christie Graham, Executive Director 479-967-1762 cgraham@discoverrussellville.org @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG

SPRINGDALE

SPRINGDALE IS FOR EXPLORING. WORLD-CLASS CYCLING TRAILS, PRO BASEBALL AT ARVEST BALLPARK, ART, AND HISTORY COLLIDE FOR A CHANGE OF SCENERY AROUND EVERY CORNER.

TEXARKANA

UNIQUE IN THAT IT STRADDLES TWO STATES, TEXAS AND ARKANSAS, THIS CITY HAS A WIDE ARRAY OF RESTAURANTS, SHOPPING AND A BUSTLING NIGHTLIFE.

Ed Worrell Memorial Baseball Park

The Jones Center

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

FACILITY SPOTLIGHT

1. C.L. “Charlie” and Willie George Park

1. Ed Worrell Memorial Baseball Park

This park features several amenities including one lighted football field, three lighted tennis courts, four artificial turf baseball fields with concessions, six soccer fields, a dog park, a paved walking trail, two pavilions, play structures and a splash pad open daily.

Ed Worrell Park in Texarkana has 115 acres of recreational land area with amenities including seven lighted baseball fields, running/jogging trails, parking, restrooms and two concession stands. It features concessions, off-street parking and is located near the Texarkana Regional Airport.

2. The Jones Center

2. Ermer Dansby Pondexter Sports Complex

This state-of-the-art 220,000-square-foot recreation, community and event center is located in the heart of Northwest Arkansas. This massive facility houses a year-round ice arena, junior-Olympic-sized lap pool, activity pool with a slide, world-class bike park, basketball court, fitness center, indoor track, conference center and chapel/auditorium.

Also located in the center is a cafe with a menu designed in collaboration with local partners.

The Ermer Dansby Pondexter Sports Complex is home to five fields, a walking trail, playground, a huge pavilion, concession stand, air-conditioned bathrooms, plenty of shade for a picnic, and lots of parking. Guests appreciate the digital scoreboards courtesy of Youth Scoreboards of Arkansas as well as the convenience of using debit/credit cards at the concession stand. Players and coaches enjoy the playing surface, new lights and 200-foot tournament fences.

3. Springdale Recreation Center

3. Texarkana Arkansas Convention Center

This newly remodeled facility boasts six indoor hardwood courts for basketball and volleyball, two indoor soccer fields, group fitness areas, and weight training equipment. The center is home to area youth sports and is an ideal location to host a tournament or camp at any age level. Ample parking, spectator seating, and full-service concessions are available to accommodate guests. The Springdale Recreation Center offers yearly memberships and facility reservations to meet any number of needs.

Nestled in southwest Arkansas, just one mile f rom the Texas border in Texarkana, the Arkansas Convention Center is the premier location for events in its area. Its 10,000-square foot state-of-the-art facility was newly constructed in 2014, and is conveniently located on Interstate 30, just miles from I-49 south. The ballroom can be divided into four breakout rooms and it features a brightly lit gallery space that connects the four rooms.

Baseball, softball, football, soccer, tennis, walking

Skating, swimming, fitness

Basketball, volleyball, soccer, group fitness, weight training

EXPLORE SPRINGDALE

Jared Sullivan Director of Communications & Marketing 479-872-2222 jared@chamber.springdale.com

SportsPlanningGuide.com

Baseball

Baseball, softball

Conventions

CITY OF TEXARKANA ARKANSAS Adam Dalby Director of Parks and Recreation 870-779-4943 Adam.Dalby@txkusa.org

Sports Planning Guide

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N O O R D I N A RY CHAMPIONS S H R E D T O P - N O T C H U R B A N M O U N TA I N BIKING TRAILS. HIT A HOME RUN ON A CHAMPIONSHIP BASEBALL OR SOFTBALL F I E L D. H O O K A M A S S I V E B A S S O N A S PA R K L I N G L A K E . W H E N YO U ’ R E D O N E , V I S I T A R K A N S A S .C O M

A F R E E S TAT E PA R K F O R W O R L D - C L A S S O U T D O O R R E C R E AT I O N .