Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer, but more importantly, it’s a solemn day of remembrance for those who gave their lives in service to our country. While many spend the long weekend enjoying time off with family and friends, it’s also an opportunity to reflect, honor, and connect with our shared heritage. Fortunately, in a state as naturally rich and historically significant as Arkansas, there are many meaningful ways to spend Memorial Day outdoors that align with its true purpose.
Visit a Veterans Memorial or Military Park
Arkansas is home to several memorials and parks dedicated to the memory of veterans. Consider visiting one of these sites for a moment of quiet reflection:
- Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery in North Little Rock offers a peaceful setting to pay respects to fallen soldiers.
- MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History in Little Rock is located in the historic Tower Building, the birthplace of General Douglas MacArthur.
- War Memorial Park in Little Rock is not only a green space but also home to monuments that honor veterans from various conflicts.
Bring a flag, flowers, or simply spend time reading the names and reflecting on the lives represented.
Hike or Bike to a Scenic Overlook and Hold a Moment of Silence
Arkansas’s trails offer breathtaking views perfect for a moment of remembrance. Hike to a high point—such as Pinnacle Mountain, Whitaker Point (Hawksbill Crag), or Mount Nebo—and take a moment of silence at the top. This is a symbolic way to honor those who stood on different kinds of heights in defense of our freedoms.
Attend a Memorial Day Ceremony in a Local Park
Many communities across Arkansas host Memorial Day events in local parks, cemeteries, and town squares. Look for flag-raising ceremonies, speeches by veterans, or wreath-laying services. Attending one of these events with your family is a great way to show respect and educate younger generations.
Float a River and Reflect
Arkansas’s rivers, like the Buffalo National River, Mulberry, or Caddo, offer peaceful settings for reflection. Paddling down a quiet stretch of river can be a powerful way to connect with the natural beauty that so many have fought to protect. Consider stopping on a gravel bar for a picnic and taking a few moments to think about the sacrifices made by our military service members.
Place Flags or Clean Up at a Historic Cemetery
Spend time at a rural or historic cemetery placing flags on veterans’ graves or helping with basic cleanup. Even small towns often have burial grounds dating back to the Civil War or earlier, and many contain the graves of veterans whose stories deserve to be remembered.
Support a Veterans Organization with an Outdoor Fundraiser
Take part in or organize an outdoor fundraiser like a Memorial Day hike, run, or group ride, with proceeds going to organizations that support veterans and their families. Events like the Carry The Load Relay or local Memorial Day 5Ks often have a strong focus on honoring fallen heroes.
Camp and Share Stories Around the Fire
Gathering around a campfire is a tradition as old as the military camps of our nation’s past. Use this time to share stories of service members you or your family knew, or read aloud letters and remembrances from veterans. Arkansas’s many state parks and national forest campgrounds offer ideal settings for a reflective and meaningful evening outdoors.
Final Thoughts
Spending Memorial Day outside doesn’t have to mean forgetting its true purpose. In Arkansas, the beauty of the land and the strength of its communities offer many opportunities to both enjoy nature and pay tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Whether you’re walking a quiet trail, placing a flag, or sharing a story around the fire, take a moment to remember and to be grateful. Read more of the history of Memorial Day at the National Cemetery Administration website.
This article was originally published on ArkansasOutside.com, your trusted source for outdoor news and updates in The Natural State. Unless otherwise credited, all photos included in this piece are the property of Arkansas Outside, LLC. We take pride in sharing the beauty and adventures of Arkansas through our lens—thank you for supporting our work!
