アーカンソーの滝・トップ20

This section of the OHT skirts along Richland Creek Wilderness, a beautiful, 12,000-acre remote stretch of the Ozark National Forest known for its steep bluffs, clear creeks, and dense oak-hickory forest. Twin Falls and Richland Falls are in the heart of the wilderness, but due to Forest Service regulations, there are no designated cross-country trails through the area, and reaching them often means creek crossings, bushwhacking, and careful navigation; however, there are former logging roads that provide some access, with camping and fishing allowed with a permit. If you are prepared for an off-trail adventure, the isolation and beauty are worth the exploration.

Falling Water Creek winds through the Ozark National Forest, known for its clear pools and picturesque cascades, and easy roadside access to spots like Falling Water Falls. There is a campsite here with room for a few tents, with a beautiful view and water access. Due to its proximity to the road, it is also a popular spot for car campers. This beautiful creek is a favorite for photographers and swimmers, especially in summer. It’s also a gateway to nearby wilderness areas, with trails and bushwhacks leading to nearby hidden gems like Intersection Falls and Six Finger Falls, just a short trek up the OHT from here.

Haw Creek Recreation Area is a lovely rustic campground nestled within the Ozark National Forest, with nine primitive, first-come, first-served (free) campsites situated directly adjacent to an 8-foot waterfall cascading over rocky ledges into a fantastic swimming hole. This spot sits right along the Ozark Highlands Trail (around mile 104) with trail access to both Haw Creek Falls and nearby Pack Rat Falls and Pam’s Grotto wet‑weather waterfall. There are vault toilets, but no hookups or potable water. It is important to note that if you plan to visit, this area is subject to flash floods after heavy rain, so be sure to plan your trip ahead to enjoy this beautiful spot.

Heavy flow right after a big rain

The Brushy Trail Complex combines Brushy Mountain, Mountain Top, Rockhouse, and Brushy Creek Trails, which, along with the Ouachita National Recreation Trail, offer a variety of fantastic loop-trail hiking options spanning from 3 to 12 miles. This area is picturesque, with flowing streams, waterfalls, unique geological formations, and peaceful woodlands. Entrance to the day use area and dispersed camping is free—just be sure you camp at least 100 feet away from any trail. Brushy Creek is a reliable water source for thru hikers exploring the ONRT, making it an excellent spot to spend the night during a long journey.

The falls are just below where the trail crosses the creek as it flows out of the Lake Windsor Dam and over the drop to form the falls. Be aware that the trails just off Lago Vista East around the falls are off limits to bikes.

Beautiful little cascade of falls coming from Lake Ann above right on the Back 40 Trail. There is also a small parking lot here which is a good starting point to explore some of both the Little Sugar and Back 40 trail systems in one outing.

Beautiful little cascade of falls coming from Lake Ann above right on the Back 40 Trail. There is also a small parking lot here which is a good starting point to explore some of both the Little Sugar and Back 40 trail systems in one outing.