The State Parks of Arkansas had their genesis in 1907 when officials of the Fort Smith Lumber Company toured Petit Jean Mountain in the Arkansas River Valley. Although concerned about difficult logging operations due to rugged terrain, they were so impressed with the mountain's beauty that they suggested it join the National Park System. By 1921, company physician Dr. T. W. Hardison was leading this effort: After securing Legislative approval, he approached National Parks Director Stephen Mather with an offer.
Upon review, Mather asserted the property was indeed striking, but not of national significance. He challenged Dr. Hardison to establish a State Park system—an idea Hardison enthusiastically embraced. With land donations and Legislative support, Act 276 of 1923 was passed and Arkansas State Parks was born.
