Posted in Arkansas Nature June 03, 2018 by

This 5-Mile Hike In Arkansas Leads To The Dreamiest Swimming Hole

Yet another adventure to take on during a stay at Haw Creek Falls Recreation Area is the hike to Cedar Creek. This 5-mile portion of the Ozark Highlands Trail leads to a picture-perfect swimming hole. Let’s set up camp and find this dreamy oasis.

We've mentioned how amazing Haw Creek Falls is before.
Flickr/Granger Meador
After all, this is the area that leads to not one, but two waterfalls. To reach the rec area, use this map.
The Haw Creek Falls Rec Area is open for camping so feel free to expand this hike into a weekend event.
Google/Nikolas Wright
Find today's hidden swimming hole after setting up camp then spend the next day chasing waterfalls and swimming in Haw Creek.
Tents are pitched and bug screen applied, so let's start our 5-mile hike.
Google/Jason Wakefield
This hike is part of the Ozark Highlands Trail, thankfully we won't be needing to traverse the full 156 miles to reach today's spot.
From Haw Creek Rec Area we'll cross the road to head towards Gee Creek valley.
Google/Jason Wakefield
After about a mile along the creek bottom we'll pass mile marker 103. Continue onward passed Childer's Hollow, a camp-friendly clearing, and back over Gee Creek until mile marker 101. Just after that marker is an 450-ft. ascent to FR 1003.
After passing the road, we'll descend to Cedar Creek. Just follow the creek until we've reached our destination.
Google/Jason Wakefield
You and your friends may need a break along the way but we're nearly there.
Google/Steven Wyatt
We've reached our hidden oasis!
Facebook/Hiking The Ozarks
Aren't you ready to just jump in and cool off?
Google/Steven Wyatt
This is definitely one swim spot you'll want to be chin-deep in during the summer.
Google/Chris Clokey

For maps and more detailed directions, visit the Ozark Highlands Trail portion of the Ouachita Maps website. Today’s hike can be found on Map 10.

Have you enjoyed this swimming hole before? Share your pictures with us in our Facebook Group, Arkansas Nature Lovers. You should join for your chance to be featured and to discover why there’s nothing better than Arkansas’ stunning nature.