Ozark National Forest Some 130,000 acres of hardwood forests,
crystal clear streams, two adjoining rivers, limestone bluffs, and
grassy meadows make up the Sylamore
District of the Ozark - St. Francis National Forest. The most
well know attraction of this area is the Blanchard
Springs Caverns, a living cave open year around and run by the
US Forest Service. Knowledgeable guides conduct daily tours through
the caverns and outdoor theatre programs are conducted during the
season.
Forest Campgrounds The U.S.
Forest Service has developed campgrounds at scenic points in
these woodlands. Most of these campgrounds are located in ruggedly
beautiful mountainous terrain, and are designed to blend into the
landscape to preserve the forest atmosphere. Campsites are available
at Gunner
Pool, Barkshed, and Blanchard
Springs. Services vary at these scenic campgrounds from primitive
sites with vault toilets and no showers to developed sites with
full bath houses and picnic pavilions.
Hiking Trails Hiking enthusiasts will find trails
designed for both day and overnight hikes. The North Sylamore Trail
is named for the scenic North Sylamore Creek which flows alongside
the trail. Waterfalls at Slick Rock Hollows, fern beds moistened
by Ozark springs, and numerous scenic bluffs are a few features
of the trail. The trail follows the north fork of the Sylamore Creek,
providing one of the most scenic trails in the region. Camping is
open, but there are developed camping areas at Gunner Pool and Blanchard
Springs Recreation Area. The creek provides excellent opportunities
for swimming, especially in hot weather when the spring-fed creek
water remains cold.
The Ozark Highlands Trail Extension
(also known as the Sylamore Section)
This new trail section is a 31 mile long stretch of the Ozark
Highlands Trail that travels along and near Push Mountain
Road (Hwy. 341), north of Mountain View. The main section of the
Ozark Highlands Trail is 165 miles long from Lake Fort Smith State
Park (currently closed) to the Woolum Access on the Buffalo National
River. This scenic trail is maintained exclusively by volunteers
and offers opportunities to hike, camp, fish, see wildlife and just
enjoy the beauty of the forest and being away from the hustle of
modern living.
Click here to visit the Hike Arkansas website.
Horseback Riding Equestrian trails and guided
horseback riding facilities are available in the Ozark National
Forest to riders of all skill levels. There are miles of scenic
horseback trails that follow the North Sylamore Creek Trail and
work back to the White River.
