Do you guys remember when I wrote an article about a place in Arkansas that is like Middle Earth and admitted to being just the biggest nerd? Hello, there. I’m here again to remind you that I’m a huge nerd and to tell you about the one place in Arkansas that will transport you to Narnia. Oh, Narnia, a place of retreat for children of all ages. At times a dense forest, a wintry land of mountains and valleys, a place full of ancient ruins and marshlands—it’s a varied landscape, but no place is more similar to the forests of Aslan’s kingdom than Devil’s Den State Park. I present this photographic evidence to back up my claim:
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Sure, when the Pevensie children first walk through the wardrobe the landscape is covered in snow and ice...
If you're not into spelunking, you might not realize that there are quite a few caves in Arkansas. In fact, you might not realize just how many natural wonders our state has, period! One middle-of-nowhere cave shows off some of the most beautiful wilderness in Arkansas, making Cub Nugget Cave in Arkansas a true Natural State stunner.
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Editor's Note: Due to the continued threat of White Nose Syndrome, all of Arkansas' caves are closed to the public other than Blanchard Springs Caverns. Follow all national forest guidance and enjoy our state's caves from a distance.
There's no doubt that the Ozark National Forest has some of the most beautiful landscapes in all of Arkansas.
This 1,200,000-acre forest is certainly one of the main reasons Arkansas is known as the "Natural State." The vast forest is home to some of our favorite waterfalls, rock formations, and all around natural wonders.
In the middle of nowhere, which happens to also be about in the middle of the Ozark National Forest, is a rather astounding site.
It's no secret that the Ozarks have all sorts of wild rock formations. One of the most underrated ones is found in the Hurricane Creek Wildness Area. The closest sign of human life would be the neighboring town of Sand Gap but this wilderness area is fairly remote.
This area has a spectacular set of sandstone arches.
This group of formations are near where Cub Creek and Hurricane Creek meet.
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The rocks combine to create a unique, above-ground cave of sorts, which features beautiful natural doors that open to beautiful Ozark Mountains and Hurricane Creek Valley. It sits quietly in the backdrop but the larger-than-life arch is quite the beacon.
The Cub Nugget Natural Arch and Cub Nugget Cave are both beautiful to photograph as well as explore. The different "doors" of the cave frame the landscape quite nicely! Just keep in mind that you CANNOT visit at this time, not even with a tour.
There aren't any cubs in this particular formation, but are likely to be bats in the area.
While adventurers can't explore inside or tour Cub Nugget Cave in Arkansas currently, we still think this spot is pretty neat. It's just one of many, many fantastic wonders and activities in the Ozarks! Keep checking the Forest Service website for updates on when this cave will reopen to the public. The better we follow USDA guidelines now to protect wildlife, the sooner that will be!
Where's your favorite natural spot in Arkansas? Share with us in the comments below! And if you have any Cub Nugget Cave photos from years past, share those with us too.
If you looked up natural wonders in a dictionary, chances are, you might just see a picture of Arkansas. After all, natural beauty defines our beloved state. It’s a playground for outdoor enthusiasts as well as nature lovers, who enjoy exploring our mountains, forests, lakes, underground caverns, and more. Since there are endless natural attractions in Arkansas, it could be challenging to decide which ones to explore. Luckily, OnlyInYourState has put together a list of 15 awe-inspiring natural wonders in Arkansas that are truly out of this world. Come with us on this incredible adventure as we explore Arkansas' vast landscapes that defy explanation.
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Best Gorges & Canyons In Arkansas
Arkansas isn't particularly known for its gorges or canyons. In fact, there are only a handful of them in our state. However, the ones that are here are so worth a visit. You'll find most of these incredible hidden gems tucked away inside the Ozark and the Ouachita Mountains.
Wow Factor: Cool nature spot that looks like a miniature Grand Canyon.
Cost: FREE
The Grand Canyon is one of the seven natural wonders of the world, and of course, nothing can compare to it. But if you can't make it to Arizona, how about you plan a trip to the Little Grand Canyon in Chidester Arkansas. Tucked away inside the Ouachita Mountains, the 0.5-mile hiking trail to the canyon has the best payoff.
Wow Factor: One of the rare canyons inside the Ozark-St. Francis National Forest.
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Cost: FREE
Nestled inside the town of Ravenden Springs is Hall’s Creek Canyon which is a one-of-a-kind
" target="_blank">nature spot inside the Ozark-St. Francis National Forest. Featuring rare ferns, interesting rock formations, gorgeous caves, and more, this unique oasis will be unlike any other nature spot you'll witness in Arkansas.
Best Caves In Arkansas
When was the last time you explored a cave? If you're due for an underground adventure, then these are the must-visit caves in the Natural State. These natural spots in northwest Arkansas are millions of years old and some of the most beautiful places in Arkansas.
Wow Factor: Known as a "living cave" the rock formations are always changing.
Cost: Fee varies by age and by tour: $1 to $85
As one of the most popular caves in Arkansas, Blanchard Springs is a must-visit. At over 300 million years old, this incredible attraction is home to the Giant Flowstone, a massive 164-foot-long stunning rock formation. Featuring cave tours as well as surrounded by hiking trails, picnic areas, campgrounds, and more, the Blanchard Springs Caverns is a perfect spot for a weekend getaway.
Wow Factor: Largest privately-owned show cave featuring 2 bottomless lakes.
Cost: Fee varies by age and by tour: free-$20
Featuring two bottomless underground lakes, stocked with unique fish, Cosmic Caverns is one of the most fascinating caves in the Ozarks. Guided tours are available seasonally throughout the year. If you're a true explorer, opt for the Wild Cave tour, that takes you through the hidden crevices of the cavern.
Wow Factor: Tucked on Beaver Lake, it has the largest natural cave entrance in AR.
Cost: Fee varies by age and by tour: free-$70
A visit to War Eagle Cavern is a fun adventure for the entire family. Boasting lots of activities including gemstone panning, hiking trails, a maze, and more, you can easily spend the day at this seasonal attraction. Additionally, there are cave tours that feature over 100,000 bats as well as underground streams and waterfalls. Nestled on the banks of Beaver Lake, you can access the cave by boat, making War Eagle one of the most unique natural caverns in Arkansas.
Wow Factor: Privately owned and known for being an entrance to the underworld.
Cost: Wild Cave Tours $50/person by reservations only.
As one of the lesser-known caverns in Arkansas, Blowing Cave has certainly developed a name for itself. According to local legend, this underground cave is the entrance to the inner earth that has otherworldly creatures living inside of it. Perhaps this sounds like a wild tale, so you'll need to explore this hidden gem in Arkansas to decide for yourself.
Best Waterfalls In Arkansas
When it comes to outdoor adventure, chasing waterfalls will top our bucket lists. Boasting over 200 named waterfalls, Arkansas is the perfect destination to witness these incredible gems. If you ask me, our waterfalls are great backdrops for some incredible nature pics. Be prepared to be awe-struck by these stunning cascades in Arkansas.
Wow Factor: At 95-feet, it's one of the tallest and prettiest waterfall in AR.
Cost: FREE
It is no secret that Arkansas has great state parks including Petit Jean State Park, Mount Magazine State Park, and Devil’s Den State Park. These parks are treasure troves for hidden gems including caves, rock formations as well as waterfalls. At 95-feet tall, Cedar Falls is one of the most awe-inspiring cascades, and it's also one of the tallest waterfalls in our state. Tucked inside Petit Jean State Park, witnessing this pretty little waterfall will be an experience unlike any other.
Wow Factor: No hiking is required to access this pretty cascade.
Cost: FREE
If you're ever searching for a nature spot to spend the day, then head to Falling Water Falls inside the Richland Creek Wilderness Area. Here you'll witness one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Arkansas that plunges into a pretty turquoise pool below. In the summer, pack a picnic and bring a hammock, and spend the day basking in all its glory.
Best Overlooks & Scenic Vistas In Arkansas
There's no doubt that we have earned our name as the Natural State. After all, we have tons of scenic vistas that will take your breath away. In fact, some of our natural wonders have been nationally recognized, making them the best nature spots in Arkansas. Take a look at 2 of the best overlooks in our state that are guaranteed to leave a lasting impression!
Wow Factor: The first national river in the US featuring towering bluffs
Cost: FREE
Truly unique to Arkansas as well as to America, the 135-mile Buffalo National River was the first designated national river in the US. While floating is a popular activity on this vast oasis, we recommend that you check out the mind-blowing views from atop the towering bluffs. You'll be awestruck as you sit high above the flowing stream, and the majestic vistas will make you fall in love with the beauty of our state.
Wow Factor: Pyramid-shaped mountain that is 1,011 feet above sea level.
Cost: FREE
Have you ever felt like you've stood on top of the world? Well, that's the feeling you'll experience as you stand at the peak of Pinnacle Mountain. Located just 15 miles outside of Little Rock, this unique mountain features panoramic views of the Arkansas River valley. And at 1,011 feet above sea level, this pyramid-like shaped mountain has the most spectacular vistas in Arkansas, and it's worth the rugged trek to the summit.
Best Rock Formations in Arkansas
There are tons of incredible rock formations scattered throughout Arkansas. Some are well-known while others are tucked away inside our small towns. One in particular is Pivot Rock in Eureka Springs. This hidden gem is one of our most unique rock formations, but here are two more that are equally mind-blowing.
Wow Factor: A natural sandstone bridge that was formed millions of years ago.
Cost: Fee varies by age: free-$5
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At 120 feet long, the Natural Bridge is a sandstone arch in Clinton that was formed millions of years ago. Early settlers of the Ozarks used the arch as a bridge crossing. Today, this seasonal roadside attraction is one of the few natural wonders in Arkansas that will cost a small fee. However, paired with other appeals like multiple 19th century cabins, old relics, as well as hiking trails, this attraction is certainly worth seeing.
Wow Factor: Unique formation that looks like the Egyptian Sphinx.
Cost: FREE
Forget going to Egypt to see the Sphinx, there's a lookalike rock formation right here in the Ozark Mountains. The towering structure is a sight to behold. And though it takes a bit of effort to hike to this hidden gem, the rugged trek is worth the reward. If you ask me, witnessing this rock formation is one of the most unique experiences in Arkansas.
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Unique Natural Wonders in Arkansas
Did you know that Arkansas is the only state in America with a public diamond mine? Yep, folks, the mine is located inside the Crater of Diamonds State Park, and it’s definitely worth visiting. Of course, it’s not the only unique natural wonder in our state. Here are a few more that are just as incredible.
Wow Factor: The first national park in the US, and it has over 45 hot springs.
Cost: FREE
Yellowstone is perhaps the most popular American national park, but did you know that Hot Springs National Park outdates it by 40 years? It's true, Arkansas is home to the first national park that was recently named as one of the best parks in the country. With its rich history, hiking trails, 45+ hot springs, scenic vistas, as well as bathhouses, this oasis is truly unique to the Natural State.
Wow Factor: Largest oxbow lake in the United States.
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Cost: FREE
Here in Arkansas, we have many lakes that are great for boating as well as other water recreation. Some like Lake Ouachita and Beaver Lake are manmade oases. However, Lake Chicot located adjacent to the Mississippi River is one of the few natural lakes in Arkansas, and it's also the largest oxbow lake in the US. Perfect for kayaking, boating, fishing, and more, nature lovers will enjoy floating on this pristine haven.
Wow Factor: Most underrated natural wonder and also a unique nature spot in AR.
Cost: FREE
While most of our natural wonders are nestled inside the Ozarks and the Ouachita forests, there is one unique nature spot in Arkansas that's truly out of this world. Located in the Coast Plain of southern Arkansas, the White Cliffs is made up of Annona Chalk dating back to over 100 million years ago. The 100-foot chalk bluff resembles a sand dune mountain towering over the Little River. It's truly one of the most unique natural wonders in Arkansas that you must witness at least once.
Whether you're a local or a visitor, you'll be blown away by these incredible natural attractions in Arkansas that defy explanation. And chances are, you'll fall in love with each and every one of them!
What do you think about our list of the best natural wonders in Arkansas? How many do you plan on exploring for yourself? Tell us below!
