The byproduct of the construction of the Fayetteville Dam, Lake Fayetteville is a pretty dollop of blue surrounded by hundreds of acres of protected land, which includes picnic pavilions, boat docks, playgrounds, a paved 5.5 mile walking trail, and a 6.9-mile nature trail. It's an immensely popular spot with families come weekends.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Botanical Gardens of the Ozarks

1.23 MILES

Even if you're the type to roll your eyes at the words 'botanical gardens,' take some time out to visit this 40-acre wonderland. You'll find the…

2. Shiloh Museum of Ozark History

3.44 MILES

The Shiloh Museum is a good starting point for exploring the Ozarks' considerably complex history and culture. Exhibitions include six historical…

3. Dickson Street

5.04 MILES

You can't have a North American college town without a main drag packed with cafes, bars, little stores and students being students. Dickson St is that…

4. Fayetteville Historic Square

5.28 MILES

This landmark acts a natural center of gravity for downtown Fayetteville. Five of the buildings fronting the square, including the old post office,…

5. Clinton House Museum

5.45 MILES

This little house was once the residence of Bill and Hillary Clinton, and is filled to the brim with old campaign materials, photos and the like. It's a…

6. Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park

14.2 MILES

Located about 12 miles southwest of Fayetteville, this state park encompasses some 700 acres where the eponymous Civil War battle of Prairie Grove was…

7. Terra Studios

16.28 MILES

Terra Studios is hard to pin down. It's...a big piece of public art? Sure, with plenty of sculptures, a kid-friendly area, a labyrinth, and reminders of…

8. Walmart Museum

16.67 MILES

The original Walmart ('Sam Walton's Five & Dime') is now pretty much a corporate press release you can walk through. Hey, it's free! Also, there's an…