The water at this spot can get a little murky, due to the dam holding in leaves and debris, so, as always, check the water where you will be jumping to make sure there are no limbs or rocks lurking below. Spend The Day At This Kings River Swimming Hole In Arkansas Tulare County officials are actively monitoring the water flows and will reopen the rivers as soon as possible, the sheriffs office said. The swimming hole here is deep and wide, and its surrounded by small bluffs on three sides. The South Fork of Kings River terminates at Tulare Lake Basin. This swimming destination is also popular with campers and day-trippers on ATVs. Take a look at our guide to all the best things to do in Branson, Missouri, Your Guide to the Best Swimming Holes in the Ozarks. Literally no list of the best swimming holes in Arkansas is complete without mentioning Little Mulberry. To get there, take Arkansas 23 north from Ozark for 15 miles. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 33 min to complete. Two hours and 55 minutes south of Springfield, near Sand Gap, Arkansas, Two and a half hours south of Springfield, near Aurora, Arkansas, Two hours northeast of Springfield, near Rolla, One hour and 15 minutes west of Springfield in Joplin, One hour and 30 minutes southwest of Springfield in Anderson, Only if theyre older and can hold their own in the river, Binoculars to spot wildlife along the creek, Four hours south of Springfield, near Perryville, Arkansas, Three hours and 20 minutes northeast of Springfield, near Black, Missouri, A pair of water shorts so you dont tear your swimsuit, Two hours and 20 minutes east of Springfield, near Eminence, A waterproof phone case so you can take videos of the shut-ins, One hour and 45 minutes east of Springfield near Houston, Missouri, One hour and 45 minutes east of Springfield, near West Plains. Fort Douglas access is smaller, but offers a gentle slope into the water and nice swimming holes for families. Check out the creek at the Arkansas 220 bridge in Washington County, south of Devils Den State Park. Youll find Big Shoal Creek Cascade here:This gem lies in between Paris, AR and Mount Magazine. 278 WestWickes, AR 71973. Located on the northeast corner of the Ouachita National Forest, Lake Sylvia a little slice of Ozarks paradise. Read on to learn more about some of the other interesting museums in Arkansas. It wasnt serious, but its good to always err on the side of safety if you have any doubts. Approximately 1.2 million people visit the lake each year to explore its crystal clear waters and scenic mountain landscape. -source. We would be remiss if we didnt include at least one spot on the Buffalo River, and Steel Creek Campground was recommended to us by Arkansas photographer and back-road wanderer Jeff Rose, whose job pretty much consists of finding the coolest outdoor spots in the Ozarks. Be sure to check that access is open before you go.Located near the intersection of Highway 125 and State Highway JJ in Rogersville is a public access area on the Finley River that is a popular swimming spot. . The rock formations here have been carved out by the east fork of the Black River, and centuries of erosion have worn them smooth, leaving the rocks perfect for slipping and sliding over. Tanyard Creek Nature Trail, Waterfall Trail, Bella Vista, AR, USA, Forming south of Fayetteville, along US Highway 71 near Winslow, the West Fork of the, West Fork White River, Arkansas 72959, USA. There are places to swim on each side of the concrete walking path.One of the beaches has sand and the other is concrete. The valley has a stunning collection of spring fed streams, waterfalls, and collecting pools. Find Fort Douglas where Arkansas 123 crosses Big Piney Creek, about 11.1 miles southwest of Pelsor/Sand Gap via Arkansas 7, or 16 miles north of Hagarville along Arkansas 164. The shooting happened in a parking lot in between a liquor store and a duplex. Eventually, we decided it was time to move on as well. Mulberry River, AR Mulberry River, AR by robert thigpen ( CC BY-SA 2.0) The Mulberry River is 62 miles of cold, emerald green water with rapids rated from easy to difficult. To visit Falling Water Falls, drive east on Arkansas 16 from Pelsor/Sand Gap. In fact, boats and paddle boards may not even be allowed. Crystal Springs Beach is a unique Arkansas swimming hole because the beach is sandy and there is a playground just steps from the water! As of Friday, both people were still missing, according to the Tulare County Sheriffs Office. The Mulberry is very temperamental. Be aware of water flowing over Hogscald Rd./CR 148 after heavy rains. The Little Missouri River begins in western Arkansas southeast of Mena and flows through the Ouachita Mountains before it reaches the Narrows Dam which creates Lake Greeson. Theres a big flat rockhence the nameand a rope swing thats easily visible from the road. Indulge your inner Tarzan, and give it a go. Real-time updates and all local stories you want right in the palm of your hand. ), but that didnt dampen their spirits. Find it by taking Arkansas 23 north out of Ozark for 17 miles, then head east on Arkansas 215 for 12.6 miles. If the water doesnt suit you, take the mural tour in Fayetteville and see how much public art you can spot. This shimmering green hole is iconic to the region, so be prepared it can get crowded. The swimming hole along a tall bluff features a wide gravel bar with plenty of space for visitors. Between here and the park is Rainbow Pool, a well-known swimming hole that campers here often visit on their way back to the campground for a refreshing dip in the cool waters. If Fugitive Beach sounds like your kind of place, all of the fun starts Memorial Day weekend. [See also nearby Saline River swimming holes at "Benton", "Jenkins Ferry", "Farindale" and "Rye".] What you can do, though, is enjoy the large, serene pool below the cliff. Bring your umbrella and plan to stay awhile in this pretty, out-of-the-way spot. are carried to San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean by the San North Sylamore Creek runs through the recreation area, offering two popular swimming holes. Go 2.8 miles and turn left onto county road 15/Long Pool Road for 2 miles to the recreation area. Swimming holes are favorite destinations for adventuresome nature lovers, and Arkansas has a treasure. The Long Pool Recreation Area is a major access point for floaters on Big Piney Creek, and the 44-foot Long Pool Falls (plus a small sister waterfall nearby) add to the natural spectacle. Check out the creek at the Arkansas 220 bridge in Washington County, south of Devils Den State Park. Joaquin tributary in the past. But alcohol is sold on-site, and the vibe can tend to skew pretty heavy on the party side. Heres where, Argument leads to a shooting victim near Fresno liquor store. Crowley's Ridge State Park, 2092 AR-168 North, Paragould, AR 72450, USA. Take Route 227 north, then near the town of Mountain Pine, continue onto Blakley Dam Road and follow signs to Blakely Dam. To enjoy some fun in the sand, take Highway 165 from Branson to Table Rock Dam. It's a relatively flat, easy hike, so it's good for kids too. Here in the Ozarks, youre never far from capturing that feeling. Don't forget to add the Kings River Natural Area to your list of. We opted for the longest single day float, which is 15 miles long and runs from Twin Bridges to Blair Bridge. Kings River, California - National Wild and Scenic Rivers System Big Shoal Creek Cascade is a fun place to splash around near Paris, Arkansas. You can see the spot from the road, and from there its just a short climb down an embankment to the water. Copyright 2023Water Education Foundation. Sunscreen. The moderate trail features a stunning 24-foot waterfall thats simply mesmerizing after a hard rainfall. Afterward, make the short drive to Wrights Barbecue in Johnson or in Bentonville for the perfect rib. A few miles south of Edwards Junction in the Ozark National Forest, you will find the parking area for this hike just off the side of the road on Highway 16. Several campgrounds are also located at Cedar Grove. The land runs wild and adventure abounds. source, Youll find Cadron Creek Outfitters here:54 Cargile LaneGreenbrier, AR 72254501-993-1650. Big Piney Creek is a beautiful waterway on the southern edge of the Ozarks, well-known for its many outdoor activities. Some of the top trails in Arkansas that you should add to your bucket list include Pack Rat Falls Trail in Clarksville which is ideal for waterfall chasers. This popular swimming site provides access right down to the water and marks the border between Franklin and Crawford counties. Youll also find some of the BEST tent camping in Arkansas along the Buffalo River! A great place to start exploring this river is at the Cossatot River State Park-Natural Area. Kings River Natural Area features soaring bluffs and great floating and fishing among deep pools. The water is great at Lake Greeson, a reservoir on the Little Missouri River. Specialties: This dramatic landscape testifies to nature's size, beauty, and diversity--huge mountains, rugged foothills, deep canyons, vast caverns, and the world's largest trees. The main swimming hole is a short walk from the campsites, and Richland Creek is a sight to behold at dusk. The campsite falls on the rustic side, as far as these things gotheres no running waterbut the serene location more than makes up for it. Bavaria is home to spectacular outdoor lakes, including the famed 'Five Lakes' area, where you can take a plunge in clear, natural waters surrounded by stunning scenery. All year long, water gushes over a 12-foot ledge of chert rock, cascading into a wide pool below. Muir Rock is, of course, the star here, giving swimmers a platform to jump 15 feet into the Kings River below. (501) 372-1443 or Email. Bull Shoals Dam was completed in 1951 and as Bull Shoals Lake filled the flow at Dew Spring increased. To get there, take Arkansas 23 north from Ozark for 15 miles. Here are 13 of my favorite swimming holes in Arkansas! None of the tributaries are dammed except Hurricane Creek at Shores Lake. Muir Rock isnt ideal for paddling, as the Kings River can be quite shallow. A tributary to the Buffalo River, Smith Creek runs through the Nature Conservancys Smith Creek Preserve located off of Highway 21 in Boxley Valley. First of all, although Johnsons Shut-Ins is a blast, it can be dangerous, and if the water is moving too fast, youll want to steer clear. Little Missouri River, Arkansas 71857, USA. Kings River (Madison and Carroll counties), Other rivers may get more attention, but the Kings River should not be overlooked. The Arkansas Alligator Farm and Petting Zoo in Hot Springs is home to pygmy goats, turtles, raccoons, big cats, and more. They dont call Arkansas The Natural State for nothing. The Bauxite Historical Association Museum in Bauxite features an array of quirky items that you wouldnt expect to find in traditional museums. the river also helps irrigate cropland and provides fresh water PHOTOGRAPHY: ARKANSAS DEPARTMENT OF PARKS HERITAGE AND TOURISM. Knowing that the Kings River lay just beyond, we walked along the edge of the parking lot, looking for the trail to Muir Rock. Find the swimming hole south of Eureka Springs on Arkansas 23. The Kings River (Spanish: Ro de los Santos Reyes), historically called Wimmel-che by the Yokuts, is a 132.9-mile (213.9 km) river draining the Sierra Nevada mountain range in central California in the United States.Its headwaters originate along the Sierra Crest in and around Kings Canyon National Park and form the eponymous Kings Canyon, one of the deepest river gorges in North America. But crowds thin out some in the heat of summertime. In springtime, the river is well-known for whitewater, but as the season progresses, plenty of swimming and wading holes emerge. To get to Dogs Bluff, head west on Highway 17 from Houston, Missouri, for three miles. The trail end at a gorgeous shelf waterfall and makes for a great picnic area. There, you will see the entrance; follow the trail down to the river and jump on in! Before jumping, assess the water for any potential obstacles and make sure to choose a safe spot to jump. The Ozark Highlands Trail runs nearby, meaning youre likely to meet interesting adventurers trekking the route. They want to see what Arkansas really has to offer. A favorite swimming spot for many people is at the Steel Creek Campground. The river can be too swift to swim at times, so check local water levels before heading out. However, if youre just looking to swim, there is no usage fee. With its 10-foot waterfall, rope swing, turquoise water and lush scenery, Falling Water Falls is a little slice of swimming hole heaven. At Ben Hur, turn right onto Arkansas 16-E, then left at Upper Falling Waters Road/County Road 68/Forest Road 1205. There is a small offshoot to this road right before the falls (if you cross the bridge, youve gone about 100 yards too far!)source. Exercising caution and common sense in the outdoors will help keep your experience safe and fun. (Bonus points if you can pull off a flip.) California's 35 Best Swimming Holes | Outdoor Project A host of established swimming holes, hot springs and waterfalls beckon. There are several swimming holes near Steel Creek, including a couple right in front of the tent camping site. So strap on your water shoes, slather on some sunscreen and get out there to explore one of the best parts of living in the Ozarks. Theres a stretch of gravel road in the Ozark National Forest, about halfway between Springfield and Little Rock, Arkansas, that is simply magical. These sites barely scratch the surface of Arkansas established swimming holes, not to mention the many unnamed spots just waiting to be discovered on your summertime travels. Steel Creek Campground is situated along the Buffalo River under the towering and picturesque Roark Bluff. -source, Youll find Steel Creek Campground here:Latitude: 36 1 48.6084 NLongitude: 93 20 30.6708 W. Steel Creek is located about 3 miles east of Ponca, just off Highway 74. She loves exploring the trails around the Buffalo National River and has yet to find a waterfall that wasn't her favorite. Through that publication, members learned about issues of importance to the cooperatives during the critical early years of the rural electrification movement. Everyone raves about the amazing camp hosts and the incredible swimming hole here at Red Fern Campground on Kings River Falls. Francis National Forest offers tons of great swimming places, and we dont have space to mention them all here, but Mirror Lake is only about 15 minutes away, and it is definitely worth a visit if you have the time. Forgot your floaties? Rockhouse Creek Access is a public access point on the Kings River where many visitors launch boats for paddle sports and fishing excursions. The fact that Dogs Bluff is right off of the highway does mean traffic can be noisy at times, but the water here is cool and clear, and a small picturesque bluff runs along the swimming hole. Theres no mud here, but the pebbles and sand can be rough, so water sandals or shoes are recommended. 17 Breathtaking Waterfalls Just Outside of Redding, California Also, check out Trigger Gap outside Eureka Springs, which offers family-friendly gravel beaches. Sylamore Creek Camp, 214 Sylamore Creek Rd, Mountain View, AR 72560, USA. A gravel bar beach area along the Buffalo River is easily accessed at the. Big Clifty Park , 6.5 miles from Silver Ridge, is a camping and day-use spot on Beaver Lake where swimming and paddle sports opportunities abound. Lower sections of the Buffalo National River have great places to cool off, too, and one of the best is at Buffalo Point (south of Yellville on Arkansas 14; east on Arkansas 268). According to the National Park Service, Rocky Falls was formed when molten rock from deep within the earth burst onto the surface about 1.5 billion years ago. What makes this Arkansas swimming hole so special is the small cascade that the Little Mulberry Creek flows over to feed the pool. The North First Stop: Sand Harbor The first place to stop is on the East Shore near Incline Village in Nevada. Thank you! The river may be reached via two state highways (278 and 246), Weyerhaeuser roads (particularly #52000 which leads to Ed Banks Bridge and #52600 which goes to the Sandbar low-water bridge above Cossatot Falls), and Forest Service Road 31. Check ahead of time to see if you qualify for a free pass fourth graders and active military do! Before you head down to the water, there are a few things to know. Arkansas is home to 52 state parks, each one more beautiful than the next. Beginning in glacial lakes above timberline, the river flows by deep, steep-sided canyons, over falls and cataracts, eventually becoming an outstanding whitewater rafting river in its lower reaches in Sequoia National Forest. Brushy Creek Recreation Area offers picnic sites, restrooms, and river access. But there are places to enjoy a dip, too, namely at Bayou Bluff. Another prime spot is Bluff Hole Park, a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers park within the town of Mulberry. Run by the U.S. Forest Service, this quiet campground has 11 family camping units and offers easy access to several fantastic swimming holes. The water in the circular lake can reach temperatures of up to 30C in summer. If youre lucky enough to get the spot to yourself, youre in for a real treat. Off to the side, theres a tree ladder that you can climb to get to the top of the bluff. Full disclosure here, folks, I got lostreally loston my way to this Arkansas spot. There were lots of kids on the water, but as with any float trip, youll run into some partiers. A wild whitewater ride during the spring thaw, Big Shoal Creek simmers down in the hotter months of the year and offers an easy-access experience for everyone in your group. To get there, head north from Mountain View on Arkansas 5/ Arkansas 14 for about 5 miles, then west onto Arkansas 14. What are the most beautiful beaches in Arkansas? Found within the Blanchard Springs Recreational Area, North Sylamore Creek is just one of the areas attractions; the others being some of Arkansas best hiking and mountain biking trails, as well as the most spectacular caves. creating a nice swimming hole for families. The best hidden gems and little known destinations - straight to your inbox. Hike the Parks: Sequoia-Kings Canyon National Parks. Copyright 2016 Arkansas Living Magazine. . There is also a small market here that sells snacks and drinks. Proceed another 2 miles; the falls are visible from the road. Recommended Outfitter. Don't forget to read our handy swimming holes safety guide before you go. With its varied terrain, the Natural State is home to countless beautiful hiking trails that are perfect for the outdoor explorer. Wangerooge: With a population of just 1,000, this car-less island lays claims to some of the most pristine white sand beaches in the country, which can only be reached by bike or horse-drawn .