Arkansas State Nickname: The Natural State
Fact-checked • Updated December 9, 2025
"The Natural State"
Also Known As:
About the Nickname The Natural State
Arkansas holds the official state nickname The Natural State. State lawmakers voted to make this name official in 1995, replacing an earlier nickname that had served for decades. The Arkansas state nickname highlights clear lakes, flowing streams, and forested mountains throughout the region. More than 600,000 acres of lakes dot the landscape. Wildlife thrives in 52 state parks where visitors hike and camp year-round.
Meaning of 'The Natural State'
The Arkansas state nickname describes the outdoor features and scenic areas found across the region. Rivers and streams total more than 87,000 miles in length. Mountains rise in the northern and western sections while prairies stretch across southern and eastern counties.
State parks provide access to hiking trails, fishing spots, and camping areas. The Buffalo National River received federal protection in 1972 as the first designated national river in America. Lake Ouachita covers 40,000 acres near Hot Springs with minimal shoreline development.
People use this nickname when discussing tourism and outdoor activities. The phrase appears on welcome signs at state borders and in promotional materials. Arkansas residents often mention natural features when explaining what is Arkansas state nickname to visitors from other states.
Other Nicknames
Land of Opportunity
Arkansas carried this nickname from 1953 to 1995. The Committee of 100, a business group, promoted this name to attract companies and workers to the state. License plates displayed these words starting in the 1940s. The phrase suggested Arkansas offered chances for economic growth and success. Residents grew familiar with seeing it on vehicles across the state for nearly four decades.
Wonder State
This was Arkansas's first official nickname in 1923. Former governor Charles H. Brough traveled around the South praising Arkansas's natural resources during the early 1920s. The Arkansas Advancement Association asked lawmakers to adopt this name. A resolution from January 1923 noted the state's mineral wealth, vast forests, and agricultural strength. Business leaders hoped the nickname would improve Arkansas's reputation and bring investment.
Bear State
Early visitors gave Arkansas this unofficial name because Louisiana black bears lived throughout its forests. Records from 1858 show people already using this nickname. Estimates suggest more than 50,000 bears roamed Arkansas before settlers arrived. By the 1930s, hunting reduced the bear population to fewer than 50 animals. Conservation efforts have since helped the species recover, and several thousand bears now live in the state again.
Toothpick State
This unusual nickname appeared in the 1800s because Arkansans carried large knives. Men wore these blades in sheaths on their belts for protection and daily tasks. The Bowie knife was actually created in Washington, Arkansas. Double-edged dirk knives were also common. Arkansas gained a rough reputation during territorial days when violence sometimes occurred between residents and even lawmakers.
Razorback State
Sports fans often use this unofficial nickname today. It comes from the University of Arkansas athletic teams called the Razorbacks. A razorback is a type of wild hog with a thin body and long legs found in Arkansas. This nickname appears regularly during football season and basketball games. The mascot has become one of the most recognized symbols of the state.
Interesting Facts
Fact 1 of 6
Arkansas's parks system started using the nickname in the 1980s for tourism campaigns before it became official.
Sources & References
This article has been researched using authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.
Detailed history of Arkansas nicknames from the Bear State through The Natural State with information about legislative actions and public adoption
Comprehensive article covering Arkansas geography, economy, and how The Natural State nickname emerged from tourism advertising in the 1970s
Overview of Arkansas state symbols including the timeline of official nicknames from Wonder State to Land of Opportunity to The Natural State