Bentonville to Clarksville Road Trip Guide

The drive from Bentonville, Arkansas to Clarksville, Tennessee covers roughly 480 miles via I-49 N and I-40 E, passing through the Ozark Mountains and the Mississippi River Delta. Arkansas Highway 187, a little-known scenic byway, offers a curvy alternative through the Ozark National Forest near the Buffalo National River. This route is worth driving for its blend of mountain vistas and quiet small towns.

Driving time is about 7 to 8 hours without stops, but plan for a full day to explore. The corridor is rich with Civil War history and art deco architecture in towns like Harrison and Conway. Before you go, check our guide on how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

The Ozark Mountains dominate the first half of the drive. The Buffalo National River, near St. Joe, offers hiking and canoeing. In Arkansas, the landscape transitions to flat farmland near the Mississippi River. Tennessee brings rolling hills and horse pastures near Clarksville.

Local commerce includes artisan pottery in Mountain View, Arkansas, and Nashville hot chicken in Clarksville. The route passes near Fort Smith, once a frontier fort. UNESCO World Heritage site Parkin Archeological State Park in Arkansas is a short detour for Mississippian culture earthworks.

• Buffalo National River: Best hiking trails at Hemmed-In Hollow Falls.
• Parkin Archeological State Park: Guided tours of the 1,000-year-old site.
• Clarksville's historic downtown: Antique shops and local coffee roasters.

Best stops Bentonville, AR to Clarksville, TN include the Buffalo National River and the Clinton Presidential Library in Little Rock. Fuel costs vary: expect around $0.25/mile for gas. I-40 is well-maintained with frequent rest areas. The route crosses multiple time zones, but no significant tolls except near Memphis. Check road conditions via ARDOT and TDOT apps.

• Interstate I-40 E from Conway to Memphis is often congested near West Memphis. Use I-240 bypass to avoid downtown Memphis.
• Rest stops every 30–40 miles on I-40; include Arkansas Welcome Center near West Memphis.
• Fuel stations abundant; cheapest gas found in small towns off highway exits.

Road quality is excellent on interstates, but secondary roads near the Ozarks have sharp curves. For families, children will enjoy the Mid-America Science Museum in Hot Springs (a slight detour) or the Memphis Zoo. Pet-friendly stops include the Ozark National Forest picnic areas and the rest stops on I-40. Fatige management: break at the Arkansas River Visitor Center near Russellville, which has a scenic overlook and walking trails.

• Hidden off-route: The Holla Bend National Wildlife Refuge near Dardanelle, for birdwatching.
• Fatigue management: plan a stop every 2 hours. The town of Morrilton has a walkable park near the interstate.
• Pet-friendly: Many hotels in Clarksville allow pets; check chains like La Quinta.