Discover 30 Unique Hidden Gems in Arkansas

Aptly recognized as the “Natural State,” Arkansas is situated in the southeastern portion of the United States. It is reported that 56% of the state is enveloped in forests, which encompass 2.5 million acres of national forests, 50 state parks, 7 national scenic byways, and 3 state scenic byways.

Historically referred to as the “Bear State” due to a significant population of Louisiana Black Bears, Arkansas is generally categorized into northwestern highlands, which include The Ozarks and the Ouachita Mountains, and southeastern lowlands, which encompass the Gulf Coastal Plain and the Arkansas Delta.

Interestingly, it is unlawful to mispronounce the state name (it’s Ar-kan-saw).

As the 29th largest state in the nation, Arkansas boasts numerous “world capital” titles; for example, Mount Ida is known as the “Quartz Capital of the World,” Alma is referred to as the “Spinach Capital of the World,” and Mountain View is celebrated as the “Folk Music Capital of the World.”

Moreover, Craters of Diamonds State Park in Pike County, Arkansas, is recognized as the only active diamond mine in America, allowing visitors the opportunity to dig for their own diamonds.

Although there are many remarkable aspects of this enchanting state worthy of contemplation, let us now explore some of the extraordinary hidden gems in Arkansas and the unique experiences they provide for adventure enthusiasts.

1. The Gurdon Light, Gurdon

Regularly observed near the rail tracks off of I-30 in Gurdon, Arkansas, the Gurdon Light is an enigmatic phenomenon that continues to intrigue the surrounding woods.

Although it is not the first of its kind reported in America, it remains one of the few that remains unaccounted for, particularly due to the absence of highways in the vicinity (thus, it cannot be attributed to vehicle lights). While researchers propose that the lights emanate from underground quartz crystals, locals possess alternative beliefs.

According to legend, a railroad worker met a tragic end when he was beheaded by a passing train along the tracks. Although his body was reportedly discovered, his head was never recovered. To this day, the ghost of the railroad worker is said to search for his head while carrying a lantern (hence, the glow).

Another theory suggests that the light originates from a lantern wielded by the ghost of William McClain, a former railway foreman who was murdered in the area during a confrontation with one of his employees in 1931.

The Gurdon Light has been featured on the television series Unsolved Mysteries.

2. Rush Ghost Town, Yellville

In the 1880s, prospectors flocked to Rush, driven by the hope of discovering lost silver mines referenced in Native American legends. However, a trial run in 1887 revealed an abundant zinc deposit instead of silver. Consequently, zinc mining became the cornerstone of the town’s industry.

Entrepreneurs, miners, and prospectors from various regions rushed to capitalize on the discovery, leading to a population surge to approximately 5,000 residents. Rush’s most notable achievement came with the unearthing of a massive 13,000-pound zinc nugget by the Morning Star Mine, the first of its kind in the area.

However, as World War I concluded, so too did the demand and price for zinc. Mines ceased operations, residents relocated, and, in 1972, Rush was officially designated a “Ghost Town” and incorporated into the Buffalo National River Park System.

Today, about 45 years later, the town retains remnants of its former buildings and mining shafts, serving as a testament to its historical significance.

3. Quigley’s Castle, Eureka Springs

Although Quigley’s Castle may resemble a traditional stone house, it is the realization of Mrs. Elise Quigley’s vision, who aimed to create a home that was spacious and aligned with nature. Years later, the structure has earned the title of “The Ozarks’ Strangest Dwelling” and is adorned by a picturesque perennial garden.

One particular day in 1943, after Mrs. Quigley’s husband, Albert Quigley, departed for work, she gathered her children to begin dismantling their home. Her sole intention was to convert their old residence into a dream home that not only offered ample space for the family but also enhanced their connection to nature.

Three years, $2,000, and considerable hard work later, Mrs. Quigley, with her family’s assistance, successfully realized her dream abode.

Currently, Quigley’s Castle is enveloped by a charming garden, while the interiors showcase trees aged over 65 years growing within the living space. Mrs. Quigley’s extensive stone collection is displayed throughout the house, and family antiques and memorabilia reflect her affection for nature at every corner.

4. Dogpatch USA, Marble Falls Township

Positioned between Harrison and Jasper along State Highway 7, Dogpatch USA stands as an abandoned theme park that was established in 1968 by Recreation Enterprises, Incorporated (REI), drawing inspiration from cartoonist Al Capp’s comic strip, Li’l Abner.

The park featured a range of attractions including paddle boats, train rides, horseback riding, an apiary, among others. Despite an existing trout farm and a natural cave alongside the newly established amusement park, Dogpatch USA fell short of attracting the anticipated number of tourists as projected by external consultants.

After several renovations and changes in ownership, the amusement park ultimately ceased operations in 1993.

At one point, the property owners even attempted to sell the land on eBay!

Today, the site remains forsaken, with the remnants of the amusement park, including the skeletons of some rides, providing an intriguing opportunity for urban explorers.

5. Boggy Creek Monster, Fouke

In 1834, the residents of Fouke reported sightings of a peculiar, hairy creature estimated to be seven to eight feet tall and bipedal, wandering the streets of this small Arkansas town. By 1997, there were 40 different accounts of encounters with this so-called “wild man.” The mystery of the Boggy Creek Monster persists, as no one has successfully captured the creature on camera or by any other means.

Reportedly, in 1971, Bobby Ford and his wife, Elizabeth Ford, experienced an attack in their home by the Boggy Creek Monster at night. Although he was chased off by Bobby and his brother Dan, Bobby sustained injuries that necessitated hospitalization. Despite the absence of blood at the scene, scratches were found on the porch, a window was damaged, and three-toed footprints were discovered near the house.

Some speculate that the “monster” may actually be misidentified black bears (a plausible theory given Arkansas’s history as the “Bear State”), which can indeed reach about six feet in height and weigh 400 pounds, and although not typically bipedal, they can stand on their hind legs on occasion.

6. Maxwell Blade’s Odditorium and Curiosities Museum, Hot Springs

Situated on the premises of the former “only drive-thru mortuary” in the southern United States, Maxwell Blade’s Odditorium and Curiosities Museum in Hot Springs, Arkansas showcases an extensive collection of unique and eccentric items gathered from around the globe.

The “Odditorium,” run by Maxwell Blade, a former musician turned illusionist who has lived in Arkansas for over 22 years, features over 300 rare objects and specimens, with the collection continuously expanding. Visitors can expect to see taxidermy albinos, voodoo dolls, skeletons, preserved reptiles, and chastity belts, among other intriguing artifacts.

Noteworthy exhibits include a Fiji Mermaid, a two-faced calf head, one of Edgar Allan Poe’s inkwells, and a silver Inca skull from Machu Picchu, uncovered in 1913 by Hiram Bingham.

If time permits, consider visiting the adjacent Magic Museum.

7. Peppersauce Ghost Town, Calico Rock

East Calico, once a bustling settlement of trappers, French merchants, taverns, outlaws, and illicit activities, now epitomizes a ghost town, with only ruins of its initial structures remaining.

Gunfights, prostitution, and “Peppersauce,” the local moonshine, were once prevalent in this dangerous section of town, but by the 1890s, the construction of a rail line encouraged responsible residents to oust the taverns and the original troublemakers.

By 1903, the area flourished as a railhead and trading hub for zinc, cotton, and timber. Unfortunately, these successes were short-lived. The local electrical plants halted operations due to high-tension power lines, excessive logging adversely impacted the timber trade, and cotton was overshadowed by cattle.

Today, remnants of the once-thriving town include approximately 20 derelict structures, an old prison, an abandoned lumberyard, a defunct cotton gin, and a deserted funeral parlor.

8. Billy Bass Adoption Center, Little Rock

You or possibly one of your relatives may have owned one of those iconic Big Mouth Billy Bass animatronic fish, which gained fame for performing the song “Don’t Worry Be Happy,” despite any current reluctance to admit it. These novelty items were incredibly popular during the late 1990s. Fortunately, if you missed the chance to see one, the Flying Fish restaurant in Little Rock, Arkansas presents an opportunity to view approximately 300 of them!

While not the only establishment of its type, the Little Rock Billy Bass Adoption Center proudly claims to be the original, supported by a wall filled with the once ubiquitous novelty item.

The Flying Fish restaurant opened its doors in 2002, during the height of Billy Bass’s popularity; however, Shannon Wynne, a restaurateur from Dallas, Texas, leveraged the concept of adorning his appropriately named restaurant with the “retired” toys.

Since its inception, the themed restaurant concept has expanded into Tennessee and multiple locations in Texas.

9. The Old Mill, North Little Rock

Do not be misled by the antique allure of the “Old Mill.” Despite its appearance, it is not as ancient as it seems; rather, it is a remarkable creation resulting from the craftsmanship of two architectural geniuses, Frank Carmean and Dionicio Rodriguez, who were commissioned by Justin Matthews, a real estate developer and builder of this tourist attraction within T.R. Pugh Memorial Park.

Carmean, a skilled construction worker turned self-taught architect, collaborated with Rodriguez, a Mexican-born sculptor renowned for his expertise in Faux Bois (Fake Wood). In 1932, both artists were tasked with contributing to the development and design of The Old Mill.

Carmean was responsible for constructing the mill to resemble one from the 1830s, while Rodriguez crafted the surroundings and intricate decorative elements.

The mill’s floor planks, the water wheel, the sizable gnarled bridges, and even the mill’s rope and pulley are intricately designed using concrete.

10. Pivot Rock Park, Eureka Springs

Allegedly a temporary hideout for Jesse James and his James Younger Gang, Pivot Rock Park is a noteworthy roadside attraction that has been supplemented by a gift shop serving as its entrance for several years.

Whether deemed a tourist trap or not, Pivot Rock Park is home to a diverse array of impressive rock formations that have developed over the course of more than a century. The landmark eponymous rock, serving as the primary draw, resembles an inverted pyramid, complete with defined edges.

Furthermore, another renowned feature of the area is the Natural Bridge formation, which, as indicated by its name, is a natural bridge created from boulders.

The geological structures are readily accessible via a paved trail that circles the surrounding wilderness; however, visitors are required to navigate through the gift center and pay a nominal entrance fee.

11. Wattle Hollow Retreat, West Fork

Located in northern Arkansas, Wattle Hollow Retreat spans 40 acres and is situated near Devil’s Den State Park. This retreat also serves as the former residence of Joy Fox and her late spouse, Merlin Fox.

After embarking on a spiritual journey across the globe, the couple returned to Montana in 1979 and decided they desired to reside in a different environment, close to nature and conducive to a holistic lifestyle. Shortly thereafter, they purchased the land, erected a tent, installed a mailbox, constructed a latrine, and created a composting system.

Regrettably, Merlin passed away from cancer in 1985; however, Joy has continued to develop and expand their vision of spiritual living to this day.

The property, which remains a work in progress, is now home to several hand-built structures and regularly hosts yoga, meditation, healing, and vipassana retreats throughout the year.

12. Josephine Tussaud Wax Museum, Hot Springs

While not as glamorous and refined as the globally recognized Madame Tussauds, this museum possesses its own unique charm and eclectic style.

Located within the boundaries of Hot Springs National Park (like much of the city), the Josephine Tussaud Wax Museum is owned and managed by the Roberts family and houses an eclectic collection of over 100 wax figures, the majority of which date back to 1971.

While new exhibits are occasionally added, most displays are permanent and have been part of the collection since its establishment.

Among the many captivating exhibits is “The Stairway of Stars,” a former-operational escalator, now featuring wax replicas of President Jimmy Carter, Louis Armstrong, Liz Taylor, and figures being overseen by Jesus and Pope John Paul II. Additionally, there is the “Seven Magic Worlds,” preceded by Napoleon.

Decapitated heads, mutilated corpses, and eerie wax dolls contribute to the museum’s spine-chilling atmosphere.

14. Toad Suck, Bigelow

While names like Boring (OR), Why (AZ), Husband (PA), Hell (MI), and Oatmeal (TX) may capture the imagination, none can rival the peculiarity of “Toad Suck.”

Considered to be “the most unfortunately named township” in the nation, Toad Suck is an unincorporated community located in Bigelow, Arkansas, prompting widespread curiosity about the origins of its name. Nevertheless, this does not seem to concern the residents, who embrace the notoriety.

So, how did the name come to be? Legend has it that in days long past, steamboat crews traversing the Arkansas River had to wait in the town during low water levels, frequenting the local taverns and engaging in drinking to the extent that they resembled “toads.”

Since 1982, the nearby town of Conway has hosted Toad Suck Daze, a three-day charitable event aimed at raising funds for educational scholarships.

15. Signal Hill, Paris

Magazine Mountain is the highest point within the state of Arkansas, surrounded by Mount Magazine State Park. This flat-topped mountain features two summits, named Mossback Ridge and Signal Hill. While Signal Hill is only 53 feet taller than the other summit, at 2,753 feet above sea level, it signifies the official highest point in the state.

Despite common belief connecting it to the Ouachita National Forest due to its proximity, it is actually situated within the Arkansas River Valley and lies at the southern end of Ozark National Forest.

The breathtaking peak of Signal Hill provides unparalleled views of the Petit Jean River Valley, along with amenities including campgrounds, RV sites, and a newly constructed lodge.

16. Terra Studios, Fayetteville

Founded in 1975 by the artistic couple Leo and Rita Ward, Terra Studios was initially intended to provide art education to enthusiastic learners. Leo, a master glass craftsman, and Rita, an exceptionally skilled potter and sculptor, produced their own artworks until Leo created the “Bluebird of Happiness.”

After more than four successful decades dedicated to crafting the small, hand-molded glass birds, Terra Studios continues to produce the ‘bluebirds’ alongside other remarkable artworks.

Originally available solely through mail-order, the studio now boasts several trained artists and numerous permanent galleries.

Although Leo and Rita retired in 2007, the current owner continues to perpetuate the tradition of the “Bluebird of Happiness.”

17. Tree Surgeon Buried in a Tree, Carthage

Hampton Springs Cemetery in Carthage, Arkansas, is a modest burial site populated with trees. However, what sets it apart? While many cemeteries feature trees, Hampton Springs is said to harbor a single tree that, according to local folklore, conceals a corpse within its trunk!

Although the legend presents an intriguing narrative surrounding the bricked-up trunk, a more plausible explanation suggests the tree was once diseased. As a remedy, locals removed the decayed, infected portions and filled the trunk with bricks to aid in its preservation. Over time, the tree revitalized and engulfed most of the bricks hidden inside.

What is your perspective— a decayed trunk or a concealed corpse?

18. Popeye Statue, Alma

As previously highlighted, Alma proudly carries the title of the “Spinach Capital of the World,” and it is only fitting that this culinary town acknowledges the iconic “Spinach Mascot of the World”— the beloved Popeye.

At Popeye Park, visitors can find a water fountain crowned by a colossal bronze statue of Popeye. Although the current statue was erected in 2007, an earlier rendition made from fiberglass and papier-mâché was in place for two decades.

Although less visually impressive than the current version, the previous statue, which perched atop the fountain for twenty years, was ultimately removed to prevent theft attempts by local students.

The “Spinach Town” also boasts a substantial water tower, designed to resemble a spinach can, reputed to be the “largest spinach can in the world.”

19. Collins Creek Cascade and Trout Stream, Heber Springs

A popular destination for hikers and locals during summer, Collins Creek Cascade and Trout Stream is recognized for its first and only documented wild trout population in Arkansas.

Initially obstructed by the Greers Ferry Dam Project, a restoration initiative that established a diversion pipe now guarantees a continual flow of water to the area. It is estimated that approximately 40,000 gallons of water flow to the creek hourly.

Positively one of the most recent of its kind, Collins Creek Cascade and Trout Stream hosts a diverse population of Rainbow and Brook Trout. Since its restoration, the creek has maintained a natural ecosystem, producing all its fish without any artificial stocking.

Beyond the creek, the cascades and the canopy of trees provide a refreshing escape for visitors during warm summer days.

20. Parkin Archeological State Park, Earle

Parkin Archeological State Park represents one of the most notable archaeological discoveries within the state and possibly the nation, believed to be the remnants of Casqui, a Native American village that dates back to 1000 CE.

The civilization was referenced in 1541 in the chronicles of Hernando de Soto. Although the ancient settlement experienced decline shortly after the Spanish explorer’s visit, numerous European artifacts and trade items have been excavated from the site.

Registered as a National Historic Landmark since 1946, the only remaining structure from the once-thriving town is a large, platform-like mound located near the St. Francis River, along with a deep impression of a moat.

A collaborative effort between the University of Arkansas and the Arkansas Archeological Society designating the area surrounding the mound, comprising 17 acres, as a State Park occurred in 1994.

21. H.U. Lee International Gate and Garden, Little Rock

Exemplifying extraordinary architectural design, serving as a symbol of friendship, and honoring the greatest martial arts master in history, H.U. Lee International Gate and Garden in Little Rock, Arkansas is named in commemoration of Grand Master Haeng Ung Lee, the co-founder of the American Taekwondo Association (ATA) and its first Grand Master.

Grand Master Lee is recognized for significantly contributing to the promotion and advancement of martial arts globally during the contemporary era. The ATA, established in Little Rock in 1977, has since evolved into the largest organization of its kind worldwide.

The gate itself consists of Arkansas River Rock and concrete, while the roof is adorned with clay tiles imported from South Korea. Additionally, the gate is painted in traditional Korean colors, each symbolizing a specific element: red (fire), blue (wood), yellow (earth), black (water), and white (metal).

The park features numerous striking attractions, including the meticulously crafted granite Statue of Nine Turtles, an exact replica of the wooden structure that embellishes Grand Master Lee’s office.

22. Mammoth Spring Frisco Depot, Mammoth Springs

Frisco Depot, the oldest railroad line in Arkansas, acquired its current rail line in 1901; however, it was soon abandoned and transferred to Mammoth Spring State Park in 1968. Following a quick renovation and the addition of lifelike figurines, the former railroad depot transformed into an amusement park in 1972.

The beautifully restored railroad depot retains much of its Victorian architectural essence, enhanced by several contemporary elements. Informational storyboards detailing the locomotives that passed through the depot and their contributions to the town’s prosperity are displayed throughout the venue. Replicas of actual passengers, railroad attendants, and train crew populate the area, creating a vibrant atmosphere.

A vast collection of railroad memorabilia and brief audio presentations recount the history of the depot and Mammoth Springs itself.

Outside stands a restored Frisco 1176 Caboose, which visitors are encouraged to explore.

23. Turkey Creek Schoolhouse, Mountain View

The Turkey Creek Schoolhouse was once the sole educational institution for the children of Turkey Creek, Arkansas, which boasted a modest population of approximately 300 residents. Established in 1925 on donated land by local architects Robert Dawkins and George Green, the somewhat dilapidated former schoolhouse now serves as a venue for town meetings and occasional weddings.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this single-story wooden schoolhouse has withstood the test of time for almost 90 years, although it may appear nearly 190 years old.

Once the primary source of education for hundreds of village and mountain children in the surrounding area, the Turkey Creek Schoolhouse stands as a representation of education in rural areas during the 20th century.

Since its closure in 1949, the schoolhouse has been utilized for various community events.

24. Grave of a Man and his Horse Killed by a Train, Walnut Ridge

With over 56% of Arkansas’s land enveloped in forests, the state offers picturesque routes across its highways. Lush meadows and gently rolling hills adorn the roadways, creating an easy and enjoyable journey. However, in bygone days, the roads were frequented by locomotives and riders on horseback.

One notable figure was John A. Rhea, a respected politician and the architect behind the mule-drawn trolley system reconnecting Walnut Creek and Hoxie. Tragically, on February 15, 1893, while mounted on his horse, he met his end when a train struck them.

In remembrance of the deceased, local residents erected a joint grave in the nearby fields, believing this would unite Rhea with his loyal horse in the afterlife, allowing them to continue their journey together.

25. Beatles Park, Walnut Ridge

Who wouldn’t cherish a moment with their favorite celebrity, be it an actor or musician? When the small town of Walnut Ridge garnered attention from The Beatles, they seized the occasion!

In September 1964, the Beatles arrived at Walnut Ridge Airport en route to a secret vacation destination. They intended to maintain their disguise and return after a few days to depart from the same airport. However, someone recognized the band earlier, or perhaps they received a confidential tip about their return.

On the day designated for the Beatles’ departure, the majority of the Walnut Ridge populace converged at the airport, resulting in a significant event in the town’s history.

To memorialize that moment, Walnut Ridge established “Beatles Park,” a public recreation area adorned with cut-outs, murals, sculptures, cartoon impressions, and various artifacts related to the band.

26. AR-MO-OK Tri-State Marker, Sulphur Springs

Numerous locations across the United States feature markers indicating the intersection of two, three, or more states. One such historic marker is the Arkansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma Tri-state marker located in Sulphur Springs, which displays three stacked markers.

The bottommost marker, which is the last one, consists of a 10-foot concrete circle with three bronze lines converging at the point where the three states meet. This marker was installed in 1955 by the Lions Club. The middle marker, a marble piece erected in 1915 by the Ozark Culture Club, features the admission dates of each state engraved alongside their respective names.

The uppermost marker, resembling a gravestone, is the initial marker declaring “Mis. 1821” to denote Missouri’s statehood and “Ark” without a date, as Arkansas was still a territory at that time. In addition, Oklahoma remained under Native American jurisdiction.

27. Old Naked Joe Mountain, Norfork

Just when it seems Arkansas has exhausted its quota of amusing and peculiar town names, Old Naked Joe Mountain in Norfork captures attention. Nestled within the Ozarks and the stunning Arkansas wilderness, the mountain is a scenic peak with a story behind its name.

The more popular and entertaining theory suggests that an elderly gentleman named Joe resided in the town atop the Mountain, who, for reasons unknown, enjoyed running around “naked,” hence the name Old Naked Joe Mountain.

A more logical (though less entertaining) explanation posits that a destructive tornado swept through the mountain town, stripping away all the bushes and trees, leaving it barren. Subsequently, the mountain acquired its moniker, Old Naked Joe Mountain.

Regardless of the legends, this mountain, albeit sparsely populated, is a magnificent destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts.

28. White Water Tavern, Little Rock

More than a conventional watering hole, White Water Tavern—named after a canoe belonging to its original kayak-enthusiast owners—is an iconic bar that has hosted notable figures including Bill Clinton, Billy Bragg, and Jimbo Mathis.

This establishment has survived three fires within a span of four decades, numerous rambunctious patrons (including one who smashed a painting over an owner’s head), and eclectic themed weddings (including a zombie-themed wedding). White Water Tavern radiates rustic charm further enriched by various memorabilia illustrating the town’s history, a taxidermy beaver, an eccentric painting of a naked accordionist matador, and the ashes of a former regular stored in an old Busch Light can.

Since its inception, the tavern has been a venue for concerts, book sales, and brunches, and it continues to attract artists and bar enthusiasts alike.

29. Chaffee Barbershop Museum, Fort Smith

The Chaffee Barbershop Museum, housed within the original Chaffee Barbershop, may strike some as an unusual inclusion in a list of hidden gems; however, it holds historical significance as the location where Elvis “The King” Presley received his first Army buzz cut.

On March 25, 1958, Elvis decided to enlist in the army, prompting him to visit the barbershop for a haircut. Reportedly, the widow of James Peterson, the barber who attended to Elvis at that time, still possesses the clippers used, while another nearby barber retains the chair upon which “The King” sat.

Each year, the town commemorates the anniversary of “Elvis Presley’s first Army buzz cut” with a carnival styled in the 1950s. At this event, Jimmy Don Peterson, son of Mr. Peterson, provides the same haircut to numerous Elvis enthusiasts.

Remarkably, this event was inspired by a group of fifth-grade students who aimed to raise funds for preserving the barbershop’s historical importance.

30. Bassett POW Camp, Joiner

Route 61 features a 76-mile stretch traversing the rural region of eastern Arkansas adjacent to the Mississippi River. Bassett, a small town within Joiner, Arkansas, located along this route, is home to the remnants of a gate, or rather, the concrete framework to which it was attached, marking the entrance to a POW camp from World War II.

Initially hesitant, the American Government ultimately deemed it more prudent to confine prisoners on domestic soil rather than transport them overseas. Approximately 30,000 German and Italian detainees resided across various POW camps in Eastern Arkansas, with 300 housed at the Bassett POW Camp.

In accordance with the Geneva Convention, the POWs participated in cotton-picking activities, contributing significantly to the agricultural industry in America.

Although the locations of such camps were kept hidden during their operation, they continued to serve agricultural purposes even after the camps were disbanded in 1946.