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The expansive Ozark National Forest covers a large swathe of northwestern Arkansas. It offers many attractions such as scenic valleys, mountains, springs, pristine streams, and supports a diverse array of flora and fauna.
If you are an outdoor enthusiast, the forest offers a wide range of outdoor activities including breathtaking hikes, camping, fishing, hunting, and general outdoor exploration. In this piece, we look at top activities that will make your time exploring the Ozark National Forest well spent.
Camping
Camping is one of the best ways to see the Ozark National Forest. Whether you want to fish, hike, or soak in the mesmerizing scenery, the forest offers multiple camping locations to unleash your spirit of adventure. But most campgrounds offer limited modern comfort to preserve the natural ambience of the forest.
If you plan to hike the Ozark Highlands Trail in the Ozark National Forest, you will find several campgrounds near the trail to camp and rest. Popular campgrounds include the Bayou Bluff Cove Lake campground, Long Pool campground, and Brock Creek campground among others.
Hiking
The Ozark National Forest is home to several iconic trails. Whether for hiking some of the most stunning landscapes in the country, or as a lover of nature’s beauties, this is a hiker’s paradise. Favorite trails include the Alum Cove Natural Bridge Trail, Butterfly Loop Trail, Huckleberry Mountain Trail System, and the Mill Creek and more.
From ancient springs to secret caves, waterfalls and lush vegetation, you can have loads of fun on this side of Arkansas, and it’s only 30 minutes from town. Mountain biking and horseback riding have become popular in the forest. If you love the high-energy equestrian sport or the adrenaline-pumping travails of rugged biking, there is no limit to your exploits in the over 1 million-acre Ozark National Forest.
Wilderness Exploration
The Ozark National Forest has five wilderness areas that offer plenty opportunities for solitude, exploration, sightseeing, and more. Abundant wildlife, caves, streams, iconic landforms, and spectacular views make these wilderness areas favorite spots for many visitors. When you want to unwind and disconnect from the hectic city life, you will find peace in East Fork Wilderness or Richland Creek Wilderness.
Swimming
The Ozark National Forest with its clear streams and beautiful rivers offers several beautiful swimming holes where you can cool down after long hikes. If you have an adventurous spirit, you can discover a secret swimming hole to swim, have fun, and soak in the bounties of the forest in private. Most campgrounds have swimming holes nearby, so maybe one is a few meters away from your camp!
Waterfalls
Arkansas is a land of waterfalls, and the Ozark National Forest is swarming with these natural wonders. People who visit the forest during the rainy season can testify to the large number of heavenly waterfalls and cascades beautifying the Arkansas Ozarks. The experience is like living in a fable, but you are there live, catching your breath as millions of gallons thunder down the face of rocks into the many rivers and creeks crisscrossing the forest.
The Ozark National Forest is a treasure trove that reveals timeless gems for those who dare to explore its depths. A visit to the forest in spring is a life-changing experience.
Image via Flick by Mabecerra
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