Leatherwood Wilderness
The Leatherwood Wilderness contains 16,838 acres are located on the Sylamore Ranger District. It lies approx 15 miles south of Mountain Home and 20 miles northwest of Mountain View, AR. It is bordered on the north, east, south, and southwest by 4 high ridgetop roads. The western boundary is shared with the Lower Buffalo Wilderness, which is administered by the National Park Service and is part of the Buffalo National River. There are 6 creeks within the Leatherwood Wilderness, which are separated by some of the most rugged, high ridgetop terrain in the Ozarks. They are characterized by steep-sided ridges over 1,200 ft high. Many are with long exposed sides of sheer vertical rock face and benches, giving the appearance of large stairsteps dropping into the drainage below. Elevation varies from 1,300 ft above sea level on the highest ridgetops to 420 ft where Leatherwood Creek exits the Wilderness. The forest is spotted with stands of native shortleaf pine as well as the unique cedar glades nestled within the primarily oak, gum, and hickory forest. There are no developed trails, but several old roads offer access into the wilderness. Points of Interest - Buffalo National River: was the country's first national river. Lower Buffalo Wilderness: expect to see bluffs, waterfalls, and old cabin sites. White River: Known for its abundance of trout and its scenery, featuring some of the best bluffs in the Ozarks.
At a Glance
Fees: | None |
---|---|
Open Season: | Year- round |
Restrictions: | Wilderness Regulations prohibit the use of any mechanized or motorized equipment including motorcycles, bicycles, or portable motors such as generators and chainsaws. |
Closest Towns: | Norfork, Big Flat, Fifty six, Allison |
Water: | Not for drinking |
Restroom: | no |
Operated By: | Sylamore Ranger District (870)269-3228 or Blanchard Springs Visitor Information Center (870)757-2211 |
General Information
Directions:At Big Flat go east on Arkansas 14 for 3.8 miles then turn left (north) on Push Mountain Road. Or, from Allison, go west on Arkansas 14 for 20 miles, then turn right (north) on Push Mountain Road. The wilderness lies northwest between Forest Service Roads 1118 (Rand Road) and 1116 (Brush Creek Road), both gravel roads.
Activities
Dispersed Camping
River and Stream Fishing
Fishing in the Leatherwood Creek is available.
Day Hiking
There are 6 creeks within the Leatherwood Wilderness, which are separated by some of the most rugged, high ridgetop terrain in the Ozarks. They are characterized by steep-sided ridges over 1,200 ft high. Many are with long exposed sides of sheer vertical rock face and benches giving the appearance of large stair steps dropping into the drainage below.
Fire Information | Campfires are allowed (unless in the event of a burn ban), no firewood should be brought in or taken from the forest. |
Elevation desc | Elevation varies from 1,300 ft above sea level on the highest ridgetops to 420 ft where Leatherwood Creek exists the Wilderness. |
Backpacking
Backpacking is available in the Leatherwood, but it is a rough area. You'll need to be very self-sufficient. Carry water with you and be aware that there are few roads in the area.
Big Game Hunting
Small Game Hunting
Game Bird/Waterfowl
Viewing Wildlife
Because the Leatherwood Wilderness has few roads and fewer people, there are many species of wildlife that make their homes there. The high ridges and difficult terrain make it good habitat for bears, deer, turkey and smaller creatures. The rugged limestone also creates habitat for specific creatures such as bats and lizards. There are 6 creeks within the Leatherwood Wilderness, allowing for fish and aquatic species to thrive. There are no developed trails, but several old roads offer access into the wilderness.
Viewing Plants
The Leatherwood Wilderness is named for the leatherwood tree (Dircus palustris), a small tree once used for a leather substitute. Oak, hickory, and gum are the predominant trees seen in the forest, with other specialties such as spicebush nearer the creeks. Unique cedar glades and native pine stands dot the wilderness.
Viewing Scenery
The Leatherwood Wilderness is known for its high ridgetops. It's bordered by 4 high ridgetop roads. The western boundary is shared with the Lower Buffalo Wilderness. There are 6 creeks within the Leatherwoods, separated by some of the most rugged, high ridgetop terrain in the Ozarks. Many are with long exposed sides of sheer vertical rock face and benches giving the appearance of large stair steps dropping into the drainage below. The forest is spotted with stands of native shortleaf pine as well as the unique cedar glades nestled within the primarily oak, gum, and hickory forest. Expect to see caves, bluffs, waterfalls, and old cabin sites.