Welcome to Arkansas, where the natural beauty is as vast as the Southern hospitality—and possibly the number of trees you’ll see. Whether you’re lost on a backroad or cruising through a small town, these 10 easy steps will help you spot a real Arkansas local faster than you can say “Woo Pig Sooie!”
They Have a Specialized Skill in Avoiding Razorback Traffic.
During football season, if you see someone weaving effortlessly through traffic, it’s because they’ve mastered the art of avoiding Razorback game day chaos. They know the secret routes that will keep you from getting stuck behind a group of tailgaters and make it to the game without breaking a sweat.
They Can Name Every Family Member and Their Dog’s Name.
Arkansas locals know everyone and their dog. And by “dog,” we mean literally every dog. If you ask about someone, expect to hear about Aunt Judy, Uncle Bob, cousin Tim, and their Golden Retriever “Milo,” who’s very picky about his treats.
They Only Order Sweet Tea—Everything Else is ‘Fancy Water.’
The idea of ordering anything other than sweet tea is as foreign to them as ordering a kale salad. If you suggest iced coffee, they’ll politely tell you “That’s fancy water, honey.” It’s all about that sugary, ice-cold glass of southern sweetness.
They Never Forget a “Y’all.”
A real Arkansan won’t let a single sentence pass without throwing in a “y’all” for good measure. It’s the kind of “you all” that feels like a hug wrapped in a sentence. Say “you guys,” and you’ll instantly be called out.
They’ll Tell You About the Best Fishing Spot—But Only After You’ve Earned Their Trust.
If you’re trying to find the best fishing hole in the state, they’ve got it. But getting them to share? That’s another story. You’ll have to prove yourself worthy of such sacred knowledge—like, maybe after a couple of family BBQs and a nice trip to Lake Ouachita.
They Know the Difference Between a Hill and a Mountain.
There’s no such thing as a “mountain” in Arkansas—everything’s a hill unless it’s in the Ozarks. A true local will correct you if you call something a “mountain” in the wrong context, and you better believe they’ll get a little offended, too.
They Can Spot a Beaver Tail a Mile Away.
Arkansas locals are expert wildlife spotters. Whether it’s a beaver tail slapping the water or a deer sneaking across the road, they’ll see it coming from miles away and point it out with the precision of a wildlife tracker. You’re probably too busy checking your phone to even notice.
They Have an Opinion About Every Local Diner.
Don’t even think about going to a diner unless they’ve approved it first. Arkansas locals have a whole list of “good ‘ole” diners and will offer unsolicited opinions on which one makes the best fried chicken. If you try to go to one without consulting them, prepare for an immediate lesson in Southern food culture.
They’re Masters of the Southern Wave.
Whether it’s waving at a passing car or a neighbor walking down the street, Arkansas locals are waving experts. If you’re driving down a rural road, they’ll wave at you without hesitation—even if you’ve never met. It’s like a law of the land: you wave back, or you’ll be considered rude for the next 100 miles.
They Know That “The River” Means One of Three Things.
In Arkansas, “The River” could mean one of three things: the Arkansas River, the Mississippi River, or the White River. Try to get away with calling one “the river,” and you’ll get a polite but firm correction. Locals have strong preferences, and if you ask for directions to “the river,” you’d better specify which river.
So, there you go! With these 10 surefire signs, you’ll be able to spot a true Arkansan no matter where you are. And remember, if you’re ever in doubt, just ask for directions to the nearest BBQ joint or fishing hole—they’ll be more than happy to guide you with a smile (and maybe a few good-natured “bless your hearts” thrown in).
