Rest Areas: Interstate 40 West – Forrest City Rest Area – Mile 243 – Arkansas 🅿️ 🚻 🚮

Take a relaxing pause along Interstate 40 westbound as we pull into the Forrest City Rest Area at Mile 243, perched atop the unique landscape of Crowley’s Ridge, just east of Forrest City, Arkansas. As we leave the steady rhythm of the freeway behind, the subtle rise in elevation becomes noticeable—this isn’t just another Delta rest stop. Here, the low, flat expanse of the Arkansas Delta gives way to a gentle ridge line, a natural formation that has stood sentinel over the landscape for millennia.

Stepping out of the car, the change in terrain is subtle but palpable. The rest area itself is one of Arkansas’ older designs—straightforward, practical, and dependable. Ample parking spaces welcome travelers of all kinds, from long-haul truckers to cross-country vacationers. Shaded picnic tables provide a spot to enjoy a snack, while vending machines offer quick refreshments. Inside the small information station, brochures invite us to learn more about the Delta and the surprising natural rise of Crowley’s Ridge, which stretches from southeastern Missouri down through eastern Arkansas, standing in quiet contrast to the surrounding flatlands.

Walking toward the edges of the grassy areas, we find designated pet-friendly zones, letting traveling pets stretch their legs. The slight elevation here doesn’t just offer a physical break—it offers a mental one too, with a subtle change in landscape that breaks up the otherwise endless flat stretches of I-40. To the west, Forrest City—known as the “Jewel of the Delta”—sits prominently atop the ridge. Just a short drive from the rest area, the town’s history reflects both the natural splendor of Crowley’s Ridge and the cultural richness of the Arkansas Delta. From Civil War history to local museums and small-town charm, this rest area serves as a gateway to it all.

As we return to the vehicle, there’s a small sense of renewal. This rest stop might not have flashy attractions, but it offers something equally valuable—a moment to unwind, a chance to stretch, and a brief encounter with one of the state’s most unique geographical features. Rejoining Interstate 40, we continue westward refreshed, carrying with us the quiet magic of Crowley’s Ridge.