Arkansas has a number of locations that have been recognized either on television or on the big screen. Even looking all the way back to 1957 when the Andy Griffith classic A Face In The Crowd was released, Arkansas has been a name Hollywood knows. TV shows such as CBS’s ’90s sitcom Evening Shade or the 1980s Boggy Creek Monster movies made Arkansas more visible to moviemakers. When the 1990s rolled around, Arkansas native Billy Bob Thornton’s Sling Blade put the public eye on the Natural State once again. John Grisham’s A Painted House was filmed in Lepanto, and 2012’s Mud with Matthew McConaughey was filmed in southeast Arkansas. There’s a reason the Natural State is so appealing, and it’s because our state is just so jaw-droppingly gorgeous. Next time you feel like setting out on an adventure, consider some of the locations below because they’re easily some of the best views in Arkansas.

12. Lake Ouachita
Wikipedia
For true natural beauty instead of something produced by computer effects, filmmakers should consider Lake Ouachita as a location for making a movie that needs natural scenery.
11. Greers Ferry Lake
Wikipedia
Imagine a fun and youthful coming of age movie being filmed at Greers Ferry Lake. Studios need to consider this area for a summer-based family comedy. The scenery is absolutely perfect.
10. Lake Dardanelle
Flickr/debbyconway
Anyone who's filming in the Russellville area will want to get footage of beautiful Lake Dardanelle. All of Arkansas's diverse scenic views and geography are on display for movie makers to use as their backdrop.
9. Historic Washington
Facebook/Historic Washington State Park Volunteers
Movie makers need to head to Hempstead County for a great pioneer movie. Historic Washington State Park still has a number of authentic buildings dating as far back as the 1870s that would go well in a "period piece" style of film.
8. Bathhouse Row
WIkipedia
A part of a rare series of architectural structures, Bathhouse Row in Hot Springs is the largest collection of 20th-century bathhouses (from the 1920s-1940s) that still remain in the United States. Any director who wants a great Art Deco setting without using CGI would do well to film here.
7. Christ of the Ozarks
Wikipedia
Another Arkansas landmark that was featured in the film 'Elizabethtown', Christ of the Ozarks is a memorable spot that should make more appearances on film. The unique structure also appeared in 80's flick 'Pass the Ammo'.

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6. Boxley Valley Historic District
Wikipedia
Cinematographers with a fear of water can stay near the Buffalo River and get some incredible footage on film when on location in Boxley Valley. Nature lovers will especially want to get a shot of the elk that roam in the valley.
5. Buffalo National River
Flickr/NPCA Photos
America's first designated national river is pretty much worthy of its own movie or documentary. The mighty Buffalo River has a blend of dramatic views and soothing sights that would make a great setting in any movie.
4. Beaver Bridge
Wikipedia
The Beaver Bridge in Carroll County is not only a historic location but a likely recognizable one, too. The "Little Golden Gate"of Arkansas has been featured in the TV miniseries 'The Blue and the Gray' as well as the film 'Elizabethtown'.
3. Old Mill
Wikipedia
Technically, the Old Mill in North Little Rock already has been captured on film. (It's briefly shown in the opening credits montage of 'Gone With the Wind'.) The Old Mill is beautiful enough to be featured in wedding photos and portraits, so it's surely a movie-quality filming location.
2. The Lodge at Mount Magazine
Facebook/Tori Lisette G
Both the exterior and interior of the Lodge at Mount Magazine would be great for a film shoot. Viewers would see awe-inspiring views of the Petit Jean River Valley and Blue Mountain Lake in the distance.
1. Petit Jean State Park
Flickr/Jonathan Ball
If someone wanted to film a romantic scene, this is the right place. Petit Jean Mountain was named after a young girl caught up in a most tragic romance, after all. The lovely scenery on the trails would look amazing on film.

There are numerous other places around Arkansas where a dramatic, romantic, or just plain awesome natural scenery would put the film over the top of excellence. Have you witnessed any of the best views in Arkansas? Which one is your favorite?

If given an unlimited budget and any choice of on-location filming to do in the Natural State, where in Arkansas would you film your movie? Let us know in the comments below!

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More to Explore

best views in Arkansas

Jackie Ann | November 16, 2020

What's the most beautiful view in Arkansas?

Depending on who you talk to, you’ll get different answers. We think that one of the most beautiful views in Arkansas is found within Mount Magazine State Park. Located in Paris, Arkansas between the Ozark and Ouachita National Forests, this scenic state park is home to Arkansas’ tallest point, Mount Magazine. Clocking in at a whopping 2,753 feet, people from all over the country visit this state park to check out the scenic overlooks, hiking trails, and rock climbing opportunities. It’s a nature lover’s paradise and should be on everyone's bucket list!

What are the most beautiful lakes in Arkansas?

From oxbow lakes to huge reservoirs, Arkansas is home to countless waterways that are ideal for kayaking, swimming, boating, or fishing. While Beaver Lake, Norfolk Lake, and Lake Ouachita are some of the most popular lakes in Arkansas, one of the most beautiful lakes is found near Hot Springs. Located within the Ouachita Mountains, Lake Hamilton is a 7,400-acre lake that was formed by the Carpenter Dam on the Ouachita River and is a popular lake for fishing, boating, and general relaxing on the shores. Offering delightful views and ample activities, it’s easily one of the most picturesque lakes in the Natural State.

Where should I go to take photos of Arkansas?

The Natural State is home to some of the most picturesque landscapes in the nation. Next time you’re on the hunt for the perfect photo opportunity, pay a visit to Devil’s Den State Park in West Fork, Arkansas. Known for the unique rock formations and caverns, the 2,500-acre state park is home to several scenic views, endless trails, waterfalls, and more.

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Explore Arkansas

Featured Addresses
Lake Ouachita, Arkansas, USA
Greers Ferry Lake, Arkansas, USA
Lake Dardanelle, Arkansas, USA
Historic Washington State Park, 103 Franklin St, Washington, AR 71862, USA
Hot Springs, AR, USA
Christ of the Ozarks, 937 Passion Play Rd, Eureka Springs, AR 72632, USA
Boxley Valley Historic District, 4699 AR-43, Ponca, AR 72670, USA
Buffalo National River, Calf Creek Township, AR 72675, USA
Carroll County, AR, USA
The Old Mill, 3800 Lakeshore Dr, North Little Rock, AR 72116, USA
577 Lodge Dr, Paris, AR 72855, USA
Petit Jean State Park Lake, Arkansas 72110, USA