Exploring Arkansas

Host Chuck Dovish takes a special look at Arkansas's six national parks in this one hour presentation From Hot Springs, which was actually the first federal reservation set aside in 1832 to protect a natural resource… to America's first national river the Buffalo National RiveRiver. to Pea Ridge National Military Park… to Arkansas Post National Memorial… to Fort Smith and Central High National Historic Sites-you don't have to go far to experience your America in the Natural State.

On the 40th anniversary of the dedication of the Buffalo River as America's first national river, this special edition of Exploring Arkansas will take you on a john-boat float trip down the middle portion of the river where two unique rock formations can be explored -- the "Nars"and Skull Bluff. Program concludes with a hike along one of Arkansas's premier hiking trails -- the Goat Trail which meanders along 500 foot-tall Big Bluff in the Buffalo's upper portion. Learn more about Exploring Arkansas at http://www.aetn.org/exploringarkansas

Through these unique homes, visitors can experience the plantation culture of the nineteenth century, which illuminated the rich historical and cultural heritage of the American South and the habits and traditions of its people, along with the triumphs and tragedies of its past,all preserved to come alive for present and future generations. We’ll take you on a tour of the Lakeport Plantation near Lake Village – the only remaining Arkansas antebellum plantation home along the Mississippi River. Also, we’ll visit the Elms Plantation in Altheimer, which is actually a bed and breakfast inn. The tour concludes with what is known as “a mansion of Arkansas” – Marlsgate Plantation Mansion in Scott. Experience the plantation homes of Arkansas that have not … gone with the wind.

Tune in to dive into The Natural State's rich country music history with visits to see Historic Dyess Colony: Johnny Cash Boyhood Home; Arkansas Living Treasure and fiddle maker and player Violet Hensley; Mountain View, Arkansas, bluegrass prodigy Mary Parker; and Searcy, Arkansas, banjo builder Randall Wyatt!

“Exploring Arkansas: Trails Less Traveled,” featuring host Chuck Dovish highlighting less-trafficked hiking and waterway options to experience safely while observing social distance, will premiere Sunday, June 7, at 5:30 p.m. on Arkansas PBS.

Chuck Dovish guides viewers to his 12 favorite places to cool off during a hot summer in “Exploring Arkansas: Natural State Swimmin’ Holes.” Viewers are invited to explore the following 12 locations in this new Exploring Arkansas special!