Arkansas - The Natural State
Mountains, rivers, and natural beauty in America's heartland
Quick Facts
| Capital | Little Rock |
|---|---|
| Largest City | Little Rock |
| Population | 3,067,732 (2023) |
| Area | 53,179 sq mi |
| Statehood | June 15, 1836 (25th) |
| Nickname | The Natural State |
| Time Zone | Central (CT) |
| State Motto | "Regnat Populus" (The People Rule) |
Interactive map of Arkansas showing major cities
About Arkansas
Arkansas, officially the State of Arkansas, is located in the South region of the United States. With over 3 million residents, it is known for its natural beauty, including mountains, caves, rivers, and hot springs. Little Rock serves as both the state capital and largest city.
Arkansas's diverse geography includes the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains in the northwest and west, and the fertile Mississippi Delta lowlands in the east. The state is the only US state to have an active diamond mine and is a major producer of rice, poultry, and soybeans.
Geography & Climate
Arkansas features highlands in the northwest transitioning to lowlands in the southeast. The climate is humid subtropical with hot summers and mild winters. Major geographic features include:
- Highest point: Magazine Mountain (2,753 ft)
- Major rivers: Mississippi, Arkansas, White, Red
- Ozark Plateau and Ouachita Mountains in the north and west
- Crater of Diamonds: Only diamond-producing site open to the public
Major Cities
Little Rock
Population: 202,591
Metro Area: 748,031
State capital, economic hub, cultural center
Fort Smith
Population: 89,142
Metro Area: 280,467
Historic frontier town, manufacturing center
Fayetteville
Population: 93,949
Metro Area: 546,725
University of Arkansas, tech corridor
Springdale
Population: 84,161
Poultry industry hub, rapid growth
Jonesboro
Population: 78,576
Regional economic center, agriculture
Counties
Arkansas has 75 counties. Major counties include:
Pop: 399,125
Pop: 284,333
Pop: 245,871
Pop: 127,799
Pop: 123,498
Pop: 111,231
Pop: 123,416
Pop: 100,180
Interesting Facts
- Crater of Diamonds State Park is the only diamond-producing site in the world open to the public
- Arkansas is home to the only active diamond mine in the United States
- Hot Springs National Park is the oldest area in the national park system
- Walmart, the world's largest retailer, was founded in Bentonville, Arkansas
- The state produces more than 90% of the nation's rice crop
- Arkansas has over 600,000 acres of lakes and 9,700 miles of streams and rivers
- The mockingbird is the state bird and the apple blossom is the state flower
Neighboring States
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