Hiking, Camping & Outdoor Activities

With scenic paths crisscrossing all over the area, there is always somewhere new to hike. Campgrounds are plentiful and well placed, offering respite for the weary hiker. With so much beautiful scenery, it is hard to find a better place to hike. Variations in altitude allow the avid hiker to choose his or her best incline. Rock formations provide the added option of climbing as you hike through the lush greenery. If you enjoy variety and beauty as you hike, the Ozark Gateway Region is the place for you.

Within the 130,000-acre Ozark National Forest, the U.S. Forest Service has developed campgrounds at Gunner Pool, Barkshed and Blanchard Springs. Campgrounds are typically situated in rugged mountain terrain, designed to blend into the surrounding environment and preserve the lush forest atmosphere. Amenities vary from primitive sites with vault toilets and no showers to sites with bath houses and picnic areas.

Regardless of your energy level and athletic ability, you’ll find hiking trails that will simply amaze you. One of the more popular trails is the North Sylamore Trail, which features a creek flowing beside it, waterfalls, fern beds and breathtaking scenic bluffs. Then, just north of Mountain View, is the Ozark Highlands Trail Extension, 31 miles of beauty connecting to the Ozark Highlands Trail giving you ample opportunity to hike, camp, fish and witness wildlife in its natural habitat.

Trukees Canoe & Cabin Rental

7060 Hwy. 62 W, Pocahontas, AR 72455

870-810-3486

Website

Facebook

Lake Charles State Park

3705 Hwy 25, Powhatan, AR 72458

870-878-6595

Website

Jacksonport State Park

205 Avenue St., Newport, AR 72112

870-523-2143

Website

Mammoth Spring State Park

P.O. Box 36, Mammoth Spring, AR 72554

870-625-7364

Website

Facebook

Davidsonville Historic State Park

8047 Hwy. 166 South, Pocahontas, AR 72455

870-892-4708

Website

Blanchard Springs Caverns

NF 54 Forest Rd. 1110A Fifty-Six, AR 72533

(870) 757-2211

Website