Arkansas has a lot of mountains; parts of two ranges wander through the western, northern, and central parts of the state. What we sometimes forget are the fantastic, dreamlike valleys in between all those stunning mountains. One of those incredibly scenic valleys is Boxley Valley, and it’s a nature lover’s paradise that you won’t want to miss.
For a little town that will make your nature-loving heart happy, click here. To have the best time a nature lover can find in the Natural State, try this road trip.
Spread out over 16 Arkansas counties with 1.2 million acres of pure wonder, you'll find an endless amount of things to do in Ozark National Forest. Chances are, if you've lived in Arkansas very long, you’ve been to this amazing space. But which are the absolute must-visit spots in this wonderland? Well, we’ve compiled a list of a dozen places you absolutely have to visit in Ozark National Forest, sights you may not have heard of before.
Located in the Buffalo National River area, Lost Valley is a fantastic place to hike and it’s full of hidden wonders. You’ll find tons of gorgeous sights in Lost Valley, including the incomparable Eden Falls pictured here. The whole place is like a dream.
Located on Judea Mountain and overlooking Big Creek Valley, Sam’s Throne is a unique formation that is popular with rock climbers. No worries if you’re not much of a climber, though. It’s gorgeous no matter how you view it, and one of the most extraordinary things to do in Ozark National Forest.
Blanchard Springs Caverns is temporarily closed for annual maintenance. The 2024 season is expected to commence on March 1. These are popular and we’ve mentioned them before, but let’s not overlook the spring that the caverns are named for. It's serene and gorgeous, and you’ll find waterfalls while exploring it. Read more information about its reopening on the Blanchard Springs Caverns website.
4. Pam’s Grotto (near Haw Creek Campground, Hagarville)
Tucked away in a grotto on a path surrounded by gorgeous bluffs, the trail you’ll take to see this truly amazing waterfall is only about a half-mile long, and one of our favorite Ozark National Forest things to do.
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5. White Rock Mountain Recreation Area (near Mulberry)
Full of structures built by the Civilian Conservations Corps, White Rock Mountain Recreation Area is a step into the past. It’s also a step into some of the most incredible views in the state.
Pedestal Rocks Loop Trail is a 2.5-mile-loop that takes you through some of the coolest, most unique rock formations in Arkansas. They’re old, they’re tall, and they’re lessons in Arkansas geology, written in stone.
This unique waterfall is one of the most incredible places to visit in Ozark National Forest. It’s set on gorgeous and little-known Spadra Creek, just ten miles from Clarksville.
This place is also called Hawksbill Crag, because that’s what it looks like. The hike to Whitaker Point is three miles round trip, and it’s well worth it to get to the spot in Arkansas that’s been called "The Best Place To Get Kissed In Arkansas," and was featured in the movie Tuck Everlasting.
Shores Lake is located near White Rock Mountain, and it’s a great place to play for a weekend. It has a swimming beach, is stocked for fishing, and there are plenty of campsites where you can stay.
11. Richland Creek Wilderness Area (Witts Springs)
We’ve already talked about how the Richland Creek Wilderness Area is basically a waterfall paradise, but let’s not overlook the creek itself. It’s one of the most scenic creeks in Arkansas, and it’s a perfect place to soak your feet and listen to the creek babble.
No really, the trees in the Ozark National Forest are wonders all on their own, and with 1.2 million acres of them, you’re sure to find wonder everywhere.
I must admit that when I think of fall foliage, the last place I would consider would be a cemetery. But truth be told, Maplewood Cemetery in Harrison has the best fall foliage in Arkansas. Surrounded by hundreds of maple trees that are vibrantly glowing with reds, yellows, and oranges, this under-the-radar resting place belongs on your list. Let’s hop in the car and grab our cameras to experience all that this enchantingly, beautiful fall destination in the Ozarks has to offer.
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Calling all leaf peepers, this one's for you! This fall season, you’ll want to plan a trip to Maplewood Cemetery in Harrison Arkansas.
While this may not be a traditional destination that you would consider, rest assured that this sacred ground comes ablaze each season in the most magical way.
Located just 40 miles east of Eureka Springs, this stunning cemetery is the best place to marvel at fall foliage in Arkansas.
The towering trees are the perfect backdrop for fall photography, so it's likely that you'll run into folks who are there to marvel at all the autumn beauty.
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As you walk or drive through the area, you'll be delighted by the streets and walkways that are blanketed with shedding leaves as far as the eyes can see.
Of course, when exploring the area, be respectful of the sacred grounds, especially if there is a funeral in progress.
While the maple trees are breathtaking, this resting place is also a solemn but peaceful sanctuary lined with rows and rows of stunning headstones adorned with beautiful bouquets.
This breathtakingly beautiful cemetery has the best fall foliage in Arkansas, and you must witness it for yourself. I have no doubt that you'll want to visit Maplewood again, and again.
Have you ever visited this under-the-radar destination in Arkansas during the fall? If so, tell us about your experience in the comments below. Be sure to visit the Maplewood Cemetery website for more information about this beautiful resting place.
Also, after you've basked in all that beauty, we recommend driving to Eureka Springs to enjoy all the small-town attractions that it has to offer.
