The 20 Best Waterfalls In Arkansas: Local Favorites, Celebrated Natural Wonders, And Hidden Gems
Sarah McCosham
Author
The Natural State certainly lives up to its nickname, as you can easily tell from all the waterfalls in Arkansas.
The state is home to majestic mountains (White Rock Mountain is an ancient wonder more beautiful than anything you could imagine), commanding canyons, and gorges (the Arkansas Grand Canyon offers a 180-degree view of the Ozarks, one of the most beautiful wonders in the country), and resplendent rivers (established in 1972 as America’s First National River, the Buffalo River is beautiful body of water that’s one of the last remaining undammed rivers in the Lower 48).
But there’s so much more to discover in Arkansas. Have you wondered, “How many waterfalls are there in Arkansas?” As you’ll soon see, the Natural State can boast more than 200 spectacular waterfalls and cascades!
Yes, 200.
And that’s only the year-round cascades; there are many, many more seasonal and unnamed waterfalls to discover in Arkansas. Today, we’re going to indulge our waterfall-chasing wanderlust and explore the best waterfalls in Arkansas.
Best Waterfalls in Arkansas
From beautiful waterfall hikes and superlative cascades to clear-blue waterfall swimming holes and double (and triple!) falls, waterfall chasing is a celebrated pastime in Arkansas, with these falls offering the most enchanting experience of the Natural State.
Here at OnlyInYourState, our insatiable appetite for wanderlust keeps us going, and waterfall chasing is perhaps our favorite way to satisfy our adventure-seeking souls.
And in Arkansas, unlimited adventures – and waterfalls – await. Here are the best waterfalls in Arkansas that belong on every adventurer’s bucket list.
1. Falling Water Falls
- Location: Upper Falling Water Road, Sand Gap, AR, 72856
- Popularity: Very
- Things to know: This beautiful area is well worth the drive through the Ozarks to reach. Accessing the waterfall is as easy as parking along the side of the road and taking a few steps.
One of the myriad waterfalls in the Ozarks National Forest, Falling Water Falls is a verdant, emerald-green gem that's more beautiful than photos can convey. Although it can be viewed from your car, we recommend getting out and enjoying this cascade up-close.
15 Minutes Away: A treasure trove of waterfalls, stay and explore the surrounding forests of the Ozarks, including Haw Creek Falls and Six Finger Falls!
2. Glory Hole Falls
- Location: Glory Hole Falls Trail, AR, 72854
- Popularity: This waterfall requires a small trek to access, so it's less popular than other more readily accessible Arkansas waterfalls
- Things to know: Reaching lory Hole is a fairly easy downhill 1.8-mile hike, which means the way back is all uphill -- so plan accordingly!
Glory Hole Falls is one of the more unique waterfalls in the state since it's one of the few to have water flowing through the bluff instead of over it. The effect is a swirling, circular cascade that's truly spectacular.
45 Minutes Away: In Jasper, you'll find the Arkansas Grand Canyon, a beautiful natural wonder that's especially beguiling in the autumn!
Are there any walk-behind waterfalls in Arkansas?
In addition to Glory Hole Falls, Devil’s Den State Park boasts a number of walk-behind waterfalls, some of which even transform into frozen waterfalls come winter!3. Natural Dam Falls
- Location: Natural Dam, AR, 72948
- Popularity: Moderate
- Things to know: This easy-access falls can be reached sans trails, but the area features other scenic treks with boulders to climb and gorgeous scenery that are worth exploring. Fishing is also popular in the upper portion of Mountain Fork Creek.
Though Natural Dam Falls is a manmade marvel, that doesn't make this 200-foot fall any less astounding. In fact, the falls (typically referred to as "Natural Dam") are known as Arkansas' Little Niagara, and are an impressive sight to see!
1 Hour Away: If you're looking for a wonderful weekend getaway near Natural Dam, Fayetteville is just an hour away, and is a charming town steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty!
Tallest Waterfalls in Arkansas
While we adore all Arkansas falls, even the most diminutive, there is something undeniably alluring about tall falls. These are immense and commanding cascades sure to render you speechless and fully immersed in a beautiful moment of complete awe and wonder.
If you’re into superlatives, you’ll want to check out these show-stopping falls in the Natural State; they are some of the tallest waterfalls in Arkansas — and, in some cases, the country.
4. Hemmed-In Hollow Falls
- Location: Compton, AR, 72624
- Popularity: Very; this is one of the most popular waterfalls in Arkansas!
- Things to know: If you're into kayaking, you'll enjoy unrivaled views of these falls from the Buffalo River.
At a commanding 200+ feet tall, Hemmed-In Hollow Falls isn't simply the tallest waterfall in Arkansas; it's the tallest waterfall between The Rockies and Appalachians! The waters are at their most resplendent following a healthy rainfall, so plan accordingly. No matter when you visit, however, Hemmed-In Hollow Falls is a destination that absolutely belongs on your Arkansas waterfall bucket list.
15 Minutes Away: Within a quick drive of Hemmed-In Hollow Falls, this floating treehouse Airbnb boasts epic views of the Ozark National Forest and is the perfect "home base" for your adventures!
5. Cedar Falls
- Location: 1285 Petit Jean Mountain Rd., Morrilton, AR, 72110.
- Popularity: Very; it's found in the most popular state park in Arkansas!
- Things to know: The 95-foot waterfall is just one of the gems to explore in Petit Jean State Park. Feel free to pitch a tent for the night or just enjoy the myriad trails within the park, including the 1.2-mile trek to the falls.
You really can't consider yourself a true Arkansan until you've hiked to Cedar Falls. Located in Petit Jean State Park, the crown jewel of Arkansas' state parks, the 95-foot Cedar Falls is situated at the top of Petit Jean Mountain and is widely regarded as one of the best and most beautiful waterfalls in Arkansas.
30 Minutes Away: Located in the heart of the Ouachita National Forest, in the summer, there's nothing better than a float down the Ouachita River!
What's the most popular waterfall in Arkansas?
Cedar Falls is perhaps the most popular waterfall in Arkansas, with Hemmed-in-Hollow Falls a close runner up. Mirror Lake Falls is another popular cascade, with several tiers and clear-blue waters at its basin.Best Waterfall Hikes in Arkansas
While the Natural State is home to some bucket-list-worthy hikes, there is nothing quite like a waterfall hike.
The experience of encountering one of these natural wonders along the trails is just that — an experience. It’s something magical and transformative that pictures cannot convey.
Arkansas is positively teeming with waterfalls; and, by extension, waterfall hikes. While it would take a lifetime to explore them all, we’ve compiled the following best waterfall hikes in Arkansas to get you started on your waterfall-chasing adventures in the Natural State.
6. Blanchard Springs
- Location: Arkansas 14 West, Fifty-Six, AR, 72533
- Popularity: Given its length and moderate difficulty, this waterfall isn't as popular as some.
- Things to know: This hike can easily stretch into a long weekend with Blanchard Springs's countless activities: take the cave tour, stroll Mirror Lake Trail, and fish the lake before setting up camp for the night.
Within the wondrous wilds of the Arkansas Ozarks, you'll find the Blanchard Springs Caverns National Park and the eponymous Blanchard Springs falls are its crown jewel. The 4.7-mile hike is the perfect length for a day trek, and the cerulean-blue waterfall-fed pool at the base of the falls makes for the loveliest incentive to complete this moderate trail.
15 Minutes Away: Don't pass up the chance for an underground tour of Blanchard Springs Caverns, one of the most wondrous places in Arkansas.
7. Magnolia Falls
- Location: Deer, AR, 72628
- Popularity: Very; this is one of the most popular waterfall hikes in Arkansas!
- Things to know: The 2.1-mile hike is generally considered easy for most skill levels.
Babbling creeks, moss-covered rocks, wildflowers, and a canopy of greenery all create a dreamy setting to Magnolia Falls, which is one of the most scenic and accessible waterfall hikes in Arkansas. The trail isn't paved but is decently well-worn. The one spot you'll need directions for is at the second stream - be sure to turn left. There's a beautiful spot along that way you won't want to miss.
45 Minutes Away: Head down to Clarksville to refuel at the Diamond Drive-In, a long-standing favorite some say has the best burgers in Arkansas!
What's a waterfall hike in Arkansas no one knows about?
If you're up for a hunt, Big Creek Cave Falls is tucked away in the Ozark National Forest, along Big Creek. The trail isn’t clearly marked and the terrain is rocky and wet, making this 3.1-mile hike quite challenging. But for intrepid explorers, the 29-foot Big Creek Cave Falls is well worth the effort.8. Bear Creek Falls
- Location: Bear Creek, AR, 72650
- Popularity: Not very; this is a bit of a hidden gem.
- Things to know: These back-to-back falls do have a name dispute. To waterfall chasers they're known as Mama, Papa, and Baby Bear Falls. However, kayakers often refer to these falls as Sidewinder's Falls and V-Slot Falls.
No matter what you call these back-to-back cascades, they're truly a sight to see. This trio of falls most commonly known as Bear Creek Falls is quite a treat for only 3.2 miles of hiking, and the falls are especially resplendent following a healthy rainfall.
2 Hours Away: Don't pass up the chance to visit Eureka Springs one of the coolest cities in the South.
Easy Waterfall Hikes in Arkansas
Waterfall chasing shouldn’t be limited to elite hikers and gung-ho outdoorsy types — and it isn’t in the Natural State.
Happily, there are many, many easy waterfall hikes in Arkansas perfect for beginners, families, and those with limited mobility.
“Ease” and “accessibility” are the name of the game with the following treks, but don’t let that fool you: these easy waterfall hikes in Arkansas are some of the best waterfall hikes in the state, period.
9. Paige Falls/Broadwater Hollow Falls
- Location: Paige Falls/Broadwater Hollow, Harrison, AR, 72601
- Popularity: Very.
- Things to know: One of the best easy waterfall hikes in Arkansas, the trail to these falls is just a short distance from the parking area. The path is well-beaten, making it pretty easy to follow.
Located near Compton, the Paige Falls and Broadwater Hollow Falls Trail is a 0.7-mile hike that’s dotted with waterfalls. It's packed with lovely sights, including a pristine creek, two named waterfalls, and a few small falls, making it quite the adventure-packed waterfall hike in Arkansas!
15 Minutes Away: Looking for more waterfall chasing in the area? Hemmed-In Hollow Falls is also in the area and definitely worth seeking out.
10. Balanced Rock Falls
- Location: Buffalo River Trail, Jasper, AR, 72641
- Popularity: Very
- Things to know: Depending on the rains, multiple waterfalls will be scattered throughout the creek. This particular one is on the other side of one of the larger pools of the creek. Even with the creek being fairly dry, this pool is about chest-high so do be careful wading through!
Hidden along Arkansas's very own national river, the hike to Balanced Rock Falls is one where the journey is just as wondrous as the destination. The shaded trail makes for quite a refreshing hike, and at just under a mile long, round-trip, the hike to Balanced Rock Falls is quite accessible for families.
15 Minutes Away: Stay on the Buffalo National River and enjoy a bucket-list-worthy float trip!
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11. Lake Catherine Falls
- Location: Haw Creek Falls Recreation Area, Hagarville, AR, 72839
- Popularity: Very, especially in the summer.
- Things to know: The area is open all year. No fees for camping or day use. Camping allowed in designated sites.
One of our favorite kid-friendly hikes in Arkansas, the tumbling Lake Catherine Falls are gorgeous and gentle, and make for the perfect splashing spot for youngsters following this two-mile trek, which is generally considered "easy" for most hikers.
2 Hours Away: Make it a family-friendly getaway by venturing up to Branson, Missouri's epic adventure park!
What's the most kid-friendly waterfall hike in Arkansas?
Less than a mile long, the hike to Pam's Grotto is an under-the-radar waterfall hike in Arkansas that's incredibly kid friendly and just as much fun for grown-ups, too!No Hike Waterfalls in Arkansas
Sometimes, an escape in nature is all we really need. A relaxing, restorative escape. No hiking or effort — just us and the wonders of nature, and a few Arkansas waterfalls.
For those who wish to chase some waterfalls minus the chase, leave your hiking shoes at home and let the following no-hike waterfalls in Arkansas fuel your wanderlust.
12. Little Missouri Falls
- Location: Little Missouri Falls, AR-369, Langley, AR, 71952
- Popularity: Not very - this easy-access waterfall in Arkansas is a hidden gem!
- Things to know: Located in the Ouachita National Forest in Arkansas near the Albert Pike Day Use Area, it requires very little effort on your part to reach Little Missouri Falls. You’ll drive on several gravel roads, but the walk to the falls is quick and easy.
Although the entire Little Missouri Trail is over 10 miles, the small portion to reach the falls is a short-and-sweet quarter-mile trek. Similar to the Cossatot, the Little Missouri Falls is a series of gorgeous cascades, and makes for an enchanting, no-hike waterfall chasing experience in Arkansas!
15 Minutes Away: Stay in the area and explore one of the Natural State's most glorious natural wonders: the Ouachita National Forest!
13. Haw Creek Falls
- Location: Haw Creek Falls Recreation Area, Hagarville, AR, 72839
- Popularity: Not very
- Things to know: This area features a lovely, waterfall-side campground, too.
A little-known oasis in the Haw Creek Falls Recreation Area, the resplendent, 37-foot-tall Haw Creek Falls is accessible via a short-and-sweet, half-mile hike in the Ozarks National Forest.
30 Minutes Away: Get your fill of delicious Arkansas barbecue at Big Poppa's, one of the best BBQ spots in the state!
14. Falling Water Falls
- Location: Upper Falling Water Road, Sand Gap, AR, 72856
- Popularity: Very
- Things to know: This beautiful area is well worth the drive through the Ozarks to reach. Accessing the waterfall is as easy as parking along the side of the road and taking a few steps.
One of the myriad wondrous waterfalls in the Ozark National Forest, Falling Water Falls is a verdant, emerald-green gem that's the ultimate "roadside attraction" in the Natural State!
15 Minutes Away: A treasure trove of waterfalls, stay and explore the surrounding forests of the incomparably beautiful Arkansas Ozarks!
Waterfall Swimming Holes in Arkansas
The only thing better than happening upon a waterfall while out in the wilds of Arkansas is happening upon a waterfall swimming hole while out in the wilds of Arkansas.
Because, let’s face it: spring, summer, fall, and even winter, can often be quite oppressively hot and sticky here in the Natural State.
Our solution? An epic waterfall-chasing adventure that ends in one of these wondrous waterfall swimming holes in Arkansas.
15. Big Creek Cave Falls
- Location: Co Rd 59, Jasper, AR, 72641
- Popularity: Not very - while Ozark-St. Francis National Forest is popular, this particular waterfall is a hidden gem.
- Things to know: This 3.1-mile hike is rated "moderate" for most hikers.
Big Creek Cave Falls is tucked away in the Ozark National Forest, along Big Creek. Quite the sight, the 29-foot waterfall flows right out of a cave! One might assume that the towering cascade is a popular destination; however, that’s not exactly the case, and that’s because the hike to Big Creek Cave Falls isn’t an easy one -- but it's worth the effort.
2 Hours Away: Head south to Petit Jean State Park, one of the most beautiful Arkansas parks and home to the rustic and cozy Mather Lodge.
16. Amber Falls
- Location: Kingston, AR, 72742
- Popularity: Very
- Things to know: The trailhead is just off Cave Mountain Road, about a mile past the parking area for Hawksbill Crag/Whitaker Point. Keep in mind that Cave Mountain Road is somewhat steep and gets quite muddy after a good rain. A vehicle with 4WD is preferable; however, small cars traverse the road regularly.
The spectacular Amber Falls is a double threat: not only is it a beautiful waterfall swimming hole, but this Arkansas waterfall will have you seeing double. That's right: it's actually a double waterfall!
15 Minutes Away: Buffalo Natural Wilderness is one of the best places to view fall foliage in Arkansas!
17. Kings River Falls
- Location: 1543 Madison 3500, Witter, AR, 72776
- Popularity: Not very - this easy-access waterfall in Arkansas is a hidden gem.
- Things to know: This beautiful natural pool is part of the Kings River Natural Area, which has been owned by the Arkansas Natural Heritage Commission since 1979.
Kings River Falls feeds the turquoise pool found near the northern edge of the Ozark National Forest. Most waterfalls rely on recent rains but the Kings River Falls typically stay wet year-round, making this an amazing destination anytime the Natural State's heat and humidity become too much.
15 Minutes Away: Take advantage of the seasonal hunting, year-round photography, and gorgeous trails in the area.
Are there any double waterfalls in Arkansas?
There are! In addition to Amber Falls, you'll be seeing double at Wildman Twin Falls, a stunning double waterfall in the shadows of marvelous Mt. Magazine.18. Pack Rat Falls
- Location: Little Missouri Falls, AR-369, Langley, AR, 71952
- Popularity: Not very - this is a hidden gem near a very popular waterfall swimming hole.
- Things to know: This waterfall is best enjoyed after a healthy rainfall.
While Haw Creek Falls often takes the spotlight in terms of waterfall swimming holes in Arkansas there are many more natural pools to be enjoyed in this area. At the southeast end of the campground, you’ll find another wet-weather waterfall: Pack Rat Falls, a 24-foot-tall wonder that's extra impressive (and refreshing) after a good rain. This mini waterfall paradise is a dream come true that requires very little effort to see access.
5 Minutes Away: On top of the beautiful waterfalls, Haw Creek Falls Recreation Area features picnic tables, hiking trails, and campgrounds, perfect for making a day or overnight trip out of your adventure.
Hidden Gem Waterfalls in Arkansas
While there are plenty of easy-access and/or no-hike waterfalls in Arkansas, some falls require a bit more of a chase. These elusive, hidden gem waterfalls in Arkansas are the ultimate adventure for waterfall chasers, with the reward being immense and wondrous!
Below are a few such hidden gem waterfalls in Arkansas. In many cases, these elusive falls are so hidden that not many have seen them in person! So let the following images whet your waterfall-chasing appetite and encourage you to go forth and find these fantastic falls.
15. Big Creek Cave Falls
- Location: Co Rd 59, Jasper, AR, 72641
- Popularity: Not very - while Ozark-St. Francis National Forest is popular, this particular waterfall is a hidden gem.
- Things to know: This 3.1-mile hike is rated "moderate" for most hikers.
Big Creek Cave Falls is tucked away in the Ozark National Forest, along Big Creek. Quite the sight, the 29-foot waterfall flows right out of a cave! One might assume that the towering cascade is a popular destination; however, that’s not exactly the case, and that’s because the hike to Big Creek Cave Falls isn’t an easy one -- but it's worth the effort.
2 Hours Away: Head south to Petit Jean State Park, one of the most beautiful Arkansas parks and home to the rustic and cozy Mather Lodge.
20. QuiVaLa Elise Falls
- Location: Jasper, AR, 72641
- Popularity: Not very
- Things to know: A 1.6-mile out-and-back trail leads to the waterfall. It should be noted that the trail is rated "moderate," as it can be a bit difficult to traverse at times, so use caution.
Located within the Smith Creek Nature Preserve, QuiVaLa Elise Falls is a favorite of photographers, and it’s easy to see why – it’s stunning! However, this elusive falls requires a bit of grit to reach, so be sure to take a map at the start of the trail. There are all sorts of other stops in the area including other waterfalls, trails, and a canyon. Fun fact: 'Qui-Va-La' is a French-Indian word for "Who Goes There." The story goes that when Elise, the former landowner, first happened upon this waterfall, she thought the rushing water sounded as if it were saying "Qui Va La," to which she answered "Elise."
30 Minutes Away: Head to the charming town of Jasper and have lunch at Cliff House Restaurant; its dining room overlooks the Arkansas Grand Canyon!
What's the most unique waterfall in Arkansas?
Mulberry Mountain, a popular Arkansas resort, has the lovely three-for-one waterfall trail. The 2.5-mile out-and-back trail takes hikers to Spirit Mt. Falls, Mt. Fork Creek Falls, and Sixty Foot Falls. This trail can be accessed from the resort's campground, which does have a day-use fee.Map of Arkansas Waterfalls
Summary
The Natural State is positively teeming with natural wonders, from the summit of its Grand Canyon to the basin of its Natural River. In between, lush forests, valleys, caves, and streams are home to myriad waterfalls: enchanting, beguiling, breathtaking waterfalls in Arkansas.
Whether you’re an advanced hiker, a new outdoorsman, or somewhere in between, the waterfall-chasing adventures in Arkansas are numerous and varied, with these natural wonders just waiting to be explored, experienced, and admired. Just make sure you have the proper footwear and gear for chasing waterfalls in Arkansas.
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More to Explore
Waterfalls In Arkansas
With so many Arkansas waterfalls, it may be difficult to decide where to begin. Here are some ideas to get you pointed in the right direction - and even some suggestions for some Natural State hikes without waterfalls.
When you find yourself asking, "What are some waterfalls near me in Arkansas?" check out our handy-dandy map of Arkansas waterfalls. That may spark some ideas and help you find a starting point for your next Natural State waterfall adventure. Or, you can just make it easy on yourself and visit Newton County, which is home to more than 100 waterfalls - or about half of all the waterfalls in the state of Arkansas.
There’s something about hiking to a cascade that makes the payoff just that much sweeter, which is why we recommend a few fantastic waterfall hikes in Arkansas, some of which will even lead you to multiple waterfalls.
- One such hike is the trail to Compton's and Amber Falls, where you'll encounter both a double waterfall and a waterfall with a swimming hole. Some of the best such hikes are when the payoff for an afternoon of bushwhacking is a hidden waterfall or two.