Arkansas

explore like never before

Get Custom Travel guides packed with local tips
Nature|Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

You’ll Feel Like You’re The Only Person In The World At This Tucked Away Arkansas Spring

Bard Springs in Arkansas is a secluded oasis perfect for a fall getaway with opportunities for camping and hiking.

Published Oct 23, 2018

Written by 

Carol Ann Carson

Since Arkansas is filled with so many gorgeous places, it's easy to miss some of its hidden gems. One such underrated spot is the tucked away Bard Springs. A fall trip to the spring is the perfect way to take a breath before we reach the holiday season. Let's take a weekend getaway to reconnect with nature at this secluded oasis.

About an hour south of Mena resides a wonderful little escape.

alt
Google/Adam Krahl

It's easy to tell that Bard Springs will be a favorite since it's located down a dirt road. Any Arkansan knows that our backroads lead to the best of places. For directions, use these coordinates.

advertisement

Most folks visit the oasis during the summer.

alt
Google/Danny McMichael

Which is certainly a lovely time to visit, if you don't mind the chance for crowds that is.

But the perfect time to plan a trip is during fall.

alt
Google/David D

The only sounds will be the running creek and the rest of nature. No noisy swimmers this time of year!

If you prefer to feel like the only person in the world, then Bard Springs is a must-visit between October and November.

alt
Google/Patrick Caple

There's no where better to relax by the creek and breathe in the crisp autumn air than this particular gem. It's easy to see why settlers used to believe the spring had medicinal qualities, you'll feel restored just sitting near the water.

advertisement

Besides just taking in the natural beauty, Bard Springs also has camping and hiking.

alt
Google/Patrick Caple

There are five adirondack shelters to help shield you from the persistent rains and walk-in overnight stays are only $8. Bard Springs is typically used as a base camp for hikers traversing the Caney Creek Wilderness or bikers taking the Bear Creek Cycle Trail near Daisy State Park.

No matter if you're camping or just taking the day for a picnic, this remote spring tucked away in the mountains will be a new favorite.

alt
Google/Patrick Caple

For more details, visit the Forest Service website right here.

Have you stayed at Bard Springs? We'd love to see your photos in our Facebook Group, Arkansas Nature Lovers. You should join for your chance to be featured and to discover why there’s nothing better than Arkansas’ stunning nature.

Here are ten great hikes to take in fall if you're needing more seasonal inspiration.

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get the latest updates and news

Nature|Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

The Stunning Top-Secret Swimming Hole In Arkansas Nobody’s Ever Heard Of

Published Aug 9, 2024

Written by 

Melanie Johnson

If you live in Arkansas, we bet you've heard of or been to Falls Creek Falls, Walnut Creek, Gunner Pool, or Kings River Falls. After all, they're some of the best swimming holes in the state. But unless you live near Paris, I can guess that you’ve never heard of Big Shoal Creek or Shoal Creek as locals call it. This pretty nature spot in Arkansas is one of her best kept secrets. But now that the cat is out of the bag, we want to share this hidden gem swimming hole with you.

advertisement

Tucked inside the tiny town of Paris, you'll find a secret spot that not many folks know about. Big Shoal Creek is a small oasis filled with cascading waterfalls as well as pretty swimming holes, and it's perfect for a quick summer day trip in the Ozarks.

A serene river flows over rocks, surrounded by lush greenery and dappled sunlight filtering through the trees.
Travis Howk/AllTrails

The hike to get to this hidden gem is literally 0.1 miles, so it's only a short walk from the parking area on Spring Lake Rd. Or if you have an ORV, you can easily drive right up to it.

Off-road vehicles parked near a muddy stream surrounded by lush greenery and trees under a clear blue sky.
Stephanie Jardine/Google

If you've driven on Spring Lake Rd in Paris, you might have seen Big Shoal Creek as you travel across the bridge. And if you've never stopped, be sure to do so next time you're in the area. You won't be disappointed.

Aerial view of a car driving over a bridge above a winding creek surrounded by trees.
Ronnie Hendrix/Google

What I like most about this nature spot is that there are rocky areas along the creek...

A serene stream flows through a rocky landscape, surrounded by lush green trees and a wooden bridge in the distance.
Russell McLaughlin/AllTrails

...so, if you have kids, there are plenty of places for them to play and wade in the water.

A man in an orange shirt walks along a creek, while a child sits on a rock and another man wades through the water.
Samantha Wilson/Google

Plus, there is a pretty little cascading waterfall. At only about 5-feet tall, what Big Shoal Falls lacks in height, it makes up for in beauty. Bring your camera as you will want to snap some pics here.

Two people stand by a rocky stream, surrounded by greenery, with water flowing over the rocks in a serene landscape.
Rodger Reber/Google

Depending on when you visit, you could have this secret swimming hole to yourself, so you'll want to take full advantage of it.

advertisement
A person sits on rocky terrain by a flowing stream with small waterfalls, surrounded by trees in a natural setting.
April Barnard/AllTrails

It's best to visit after a good rainfall, but even if the creek isn't flowing, you can still find a few spots to get your feet wet.

A serene river scene with smooth rocks, gentle water flow, and lush greenery reflecting in the calm water.
Russell McLaughlin/AllTrails

After your visit, chances are, this swimming hole might become your new go-to oasis.

So, did you know about this secret nature spot in Arkansas? Have you been to it? Let us know in the comments below. While in the area, how about you grab a bite to eat at this scenic Arkansas restaurant that's high above the clouds.

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/arkansas/restaurant-above-the-clouds-ar/

Also, if you need a place to stay after your day of fun, we found this affordable hotel in Paris that's a perfect place to rest.

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get the latest updates and news

Nature|Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

This Natural Water Park In Arkansas Is A Summer Dream Come True

Published Aug 2, 2024

Written by 

Melanie Johnson

Truth be told, it’s not hard to find a natural water park in Arkansas. After all, with over 2,000 lakes and thousands of unnamed swimming holes, any of them can become a natural playground. Take, for instance, the Ouachita River Whitewater Park in Malvern that we are featuring today. With raging rapids, picnic tables, walking trails, and more, this epic Arkansas aquatic park is jam-packed with adventure. A day trip here will literally make your summer dreams come true. Plus, it’s dog-friendly, too. Come and check it out with us.

advertisement

At over 500 miles long, the Ouachita River is a natural playground that stretches from Arkansas to Louisiana.

A serene river scene with gentle rapids, surrounded by lush green trees under a clear blue sky.
Thomas Cluff/Google

Along the river in Arkansas, you'll find class I rapids, so kayakers have made this their summer playground for many years,

Located in Malvern, just 20 miles southeast of Hot Springs, the Ouachita River Whitewater Park is a great spot to access the scenic river.

A serene river scene with lush green trees, rocky shore, and a cloudy sky reflecting on the water.
Mark Corder/Google

Here you can spend the day lazily floating on the water...

Group of people relaxing on inflatable rafts in a river, surrounded by lush greenery and blue skies.
P.J. Martin/Google

...or for a more adrenaline pact day, you can kayak along the rapids.

A person paddles a red kayak through turbulent water, wearing a helmet and life jacket, with trees in the background.
Christopher Alter/Google

The park is fun for all ages and for all skill levels. So as long as you love the water, this outdoor playground will make your summer dreams come alive.

A child rides a green boogie board through a wave, splashing water around in a sunny outdoor setting.
Dee Elkins/Google

Don't leave the pup at home, they love the river too. They enjoy cruising the river on a canoe or boat.

advertisement
Two dogs in a canoe on a calm river, surrounded by lush green trees and a clear blue sky.
P.J. Martin/Google

If you prefer not to cool off in the water, there is more to do here. You can find a quiet spot to sit and enjoy the scenery...

A serene river scene with trees along the bank and a large rock in the foreground, reflecting calm waters.
Alejandra Gutierrez/Google

...or you can stroll on the paved trails that meander through the park.

A serene river scene with trees lining the shore and a walking path, under a bright blue sky with fluffy clouds.
Christopher Alter/Google

Be sure to pack a picnic as there is a pavilion with picnic tables. Plus, there are more picnic tables scattered throughout the park.

A spacious outdoor pavilion with a wooden roof, featuring picnic tables and surrounded by greenery.
Ouachita River Whitewater Park/Facebook

You can easily spend the day cooling off on the Ouachita River at this natural outdoor playground in Arkansas.

Are you ready to take your summer to the next level at this natural water park in Arkansas? If so, visit the Ouachita River Whitewater Park Facebook page to learn more about the outdoor playground.

If you're searching for more adventure this summer, how about you try this Stand Up Paddleboard tour on Beaver Lake. We believe you'll love it especially if you enjoy spending time on the water.

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get the latest updates and news

All Stories

Nature
Caves & Rock Formations

The Completely Free Natural Attraction Hiding in a Wyoming Park Is a Must-Visit

by Megan McDonald
on Nov 14
alt
Nature
Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

This Natural Wonder in Idaho Is the Definition of a Hidden Gem

by Courtnie Erickson
on Nov 14
alt
Food
Breweries & Wineries

The Best Apple Cider in Alaska Comes From This Award-Winning Hard Cidery

by Jennifer
on Nov 14
alt
Trip Ideas
Road Trips

The Scenic Road Trip That Leads to 5 of Oregon’s Most Charming Small Towns

by Natasha Kayes
on Nov 14
alt
Nature
Hiking

The Iconic Trail in Tennessee Everyone Should Hike Once in Their Lifetime

by Chris Dodge
on Nov 14
The bright green grass on top of Roan Mountain overlooks layers of mountains in the distance.