Summary
Arkansas, often referred to as ‘The Natural State,’ truly embodies this title due to its expansive and mostly undisturbed landscapes. The region boasts remarkable geological characteristics, including caverns, sinkholes, towers, and grottos in proximity to numerous waterfalls.
Interestingly, Arkansas also hosts one of the largest corporations globally: Wal-Mart.
The state features some of the most picturesque and accessible national parks in the United States, making it a favored location for cavers, nature enthusiasts, and waterfall seekers.
Below are 15 of the most stunning waterfalls in Arkansas.
1. Hemmed-in-Hollow Falls
With a continuous drop of nearly 210 feet, Hemmed-in-Hollow Falls rank among the most spectacular in the state.
Situated in the Buffalo National River area, part of the U.S. National Park System, they are reputedly the tallest falls east of the Rocky Mountains.
The best time to observe the falls is during spring, when the river is swollen with snowmelt from higher altitudes.
Access to the falls is available via multiple trails, as well as by canoe or kayak, depending on seasonal conditions and water levels.
The park is located in the north-central section of Arkansas, approximately between the towns of Jasper and Marshall.
2. Cedar Falls
Standing just below 100 feet, Cedar Falls is located within the 3,500-acre Petit Jean State Park in Conway County, Arkansas.
The waterfall has carved a profound trough into the stratified rock over centuries and is known for the enchanting rainbows that frequently appear.
The falls can be accessed via the Cedar Falls Trail, which is slightly over 2 miles in length and features moderate difficulty.
This area possesses an intriguing history and offers a wealth of facilities, activities, and amenities suited to various types of visitors.
3. High Bank Twin Falls
With a height of almost 75 feet, High Bank Twin Falls presents a serene and impressive sight located within the Boston Mountain region of the Ozark National Forest.
These falls are best appreciated after rainfall, when the water flow is at its most robust. Nevertheless, even during lower flow conditions, the falls retain their tranquility.
Each of the two streams cascades over the layered, worn rocks before landing among boulders and a pool below.
Although it does require a short walk to view them, the trek from the parking area is less than half a mile along an easy trail, allowing you to enjoy the fresh air.
4. Cougar Falls
While there is ongoing speculation concerning whether these falls were named after the North American mountain lions or the rock musician John ‘Cougar’ Mellencamp, seeing the falls will render such debates moot.
Situated in the Ozark National Forest, the 80-foot Cougar Falls is one of four waterfalls in the region, making it an essential stop on a tour of remarkable waterfalls.
The road adjacent to the falls provides numerous turnouts, and the trail from there extends a little over a mile of moderate difficulty.
5. Kings Bluff Falls
Just under 120 feet in height, Kings Bluff Falls is among the tallest waterfalls in the state.
This waterfall is located in an area of the Ozark National Forest renowned for its remarkable rock formations, grottos, peaks, and caverns.
Once inside the park, access to the falls is facilitated by the Kings Bluff Loop Trail, which will guide you to the summit of the waterfall.
However, the rocks along the trail can be slick, so it is advisable to proceed with caution, be vigilant about your footing, and take the time to appreciate the surrounding beauty.
6. Pam’s Grotto Falls
If you are at all intrigued, you might find yourself wondering who Pam is and why she has a grotto in Arkansas.
Though these questions may remain unanswered, it is noteworthy that the cascade-style falls rise nearly 40 feet and are enveloped by pristine woodland, featuring a cavern or grotto behind the flowing water.
Located in the Haw Creek Falls Recreation Area near Russellville and Clarksville, accessing the falls is feasible from the parking area and the campground. Although the trail is easy to navigate, it contains some tricky sections, so wearing appropriate footwear is advised.
7. Natural Dam
Found within the Ozark National Forest, approximately a 30-minute drive from Van Buren, Natural Dam’s allure stems from its convenient access, picturesque natural setting, and extensive width of nearly 200 feet across Mountain Fork Creek.
If disembarking from your vehicle seems too great an effort, you’ll be pleased to know that the stunning falls are situated only a few yards from the road.
Based on water levels and the season, fishing and swimming are common activities, and the park is equipped with picnic tables as well.
8. Falling Water Falls
Situated in the Richland Creek area of the Ozark National Forest, Falling Water Falls is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the state.
This area features captivating geological formations with intriguing, stratified rocks, boulders, and encroaching forests.
Below the waterfall is a refreshing swimming hole, and it is even possible to venture behind the flowing water for a distinctive experience.
The falls can also be observed from the road if that is preferable.
Beautiful in every season, during winter months of low temperatures and reduced water flow, large icicles often form from the edge of the falls.
9. Little Missouri Falls
Located in the Ouachita National Forest, southwest of Little Rock, Little Missouri Falls features cascading waters near one of the park’s prime camping locations.
The falls can be reached on foot from the Albert Pike Camping area, although caution is warranted due to some slick and challenging sections. Nonetheless, the journey should take no longer than 20 minutes.
If this trail seems unappealing, alternative paths lead to similarly stunning viewpoints offering amazing vistas of the surrounding area.
The park provides numerous other recreational opportunities, including canoeing, fishing, and swimming, which can be enjoyed in the Little Missouri River or the nearby Shady Lake.
10. Haw Creek Falls
Also located in the Ozark National Forest, Haw Creek Falls may not be the tallest in the world, yet they are nestled within a secluded section of the park, easily viewable and audible from a nearby camping area.
Situated near the town of Pelsor, Arkansas, this recreation area boasts several additional waterfalls, all within a short walking distance from the camping area.
The picturesque setting of Haw Creek is characterized by lush green forests that gracefully spill over the water’s edge, providing an ideal swimming and fishing location during summer months.
11. Eden Falls
Located in Buffalo National River Park, southwest of Harrison and near Jasper, Eden Falls features a 37-foot drop on the Upper Buffalo River in north-central Arkansas.
Similar to many of Arkansas’ waterfalls, a cavern lies behind the cascading waters, providing a unique and intriguing exploration opportunity.
The area is well-known for its diverse birdlife, vibrant flora, and serene atmosphere. Due to the falls’ accessibility, the temptation to stay in a vehicle will be minimized.
The slick, moss-covered rocks and encroaching vegetation contribute to the area’s primordial ambiance.
12. Mirror Lake Falls
As implied by their name, Mirror Lake Falls are renowned for the picturesque reflections on their still waters that often resemble a beautiful painting.
This lake was constructed in the 1930s as part of a Civilian Conservation Corps initiative aimed at building essential infrastructure while providing employment to the largely idle workforce.
The waters are teeming with game fish, particularly trout, and below the falls is a substantial cavern formed by overhanging rock, making it an exciting place to explore.
The falls feature multiple terraces and can be observed along a circular trail that is less than two miles in length.
13. Glory Hole Falls
Sourced from a spring that infiltrates the rocks above, Glory Hole Falls ranks among the most popular waterfalls in the Ozark Mountains.
A substantial grotto is present beneath and behind the falls, making this area a favorite among spelunkers eager to explore the labyrinth of caves carved into the rock over time.
The falls are located near Fallsville and can be accessed via the Glory Hole Falls Trail, which entails a two-mile round trip and is classified as moderately difficult.
The region boasts numerous remarkable geological formations not found elsewhere.
14. Hamilton Falls
Another notable waterfall in the Ozark National Forest is Hamilton Falls.
Although these falls are among the most challenging to reach in the state, as they lie in a remote portion of the park only accessible via a strenuous hike that may take up to four hours, depending on conditions and individual fitness levels.
At less than 15 feet in height, their charm lies in their isolation and the serene environment that envelops the surrounding forest.
The sizable boulders near the pool at the waterfall’s base serve as perfect places to bask in the sun or relax while enjoying a snack.
15. Forked Mountain Falls
Positioned within the Ouachita National Forest, which spans the states of Oklahoma and Arkansas, Forked Mountain Falls is situated in the highest elevation section of the park.
Although the falls themselves are relatively small, their charm and the grandeur of the surrounding park, including the 1,400-foot mountain on which you stand, instills a sense of satisfaction.
The trail leading to the falls begins near a popular campground and provides straightforward access to the base of the waterfall. The hike is relatively easy, and upon completing your visit, you can continue on to discover another waterfall.
