Hiking
Backpacking and hiking are both available in the forest.
Hiking is a wonderful way to see and experience the many wonders of our forests. Visit our forest’s ranger district office, our All Maps page, or National Forest Store to obtain a trail map to help you plan your route based on your ability, available time and interest.
Search for Hiking Opportunities
Alum Cove Natural Bridge Recreation Area
Site Open
Among the many natural features of the Ozark Natural Forest is the huge stone arch that forms a natural bridge at Alum Cove National Recreation Trail. The natural arch is all that remains of what was…
Austin Trailhead
Site Open
The Austin Trailhead provides access to the Brock Creek Multi-Use Trail System.
Barkshed Recreation Area
Site Open
Barkshed is a primitive camp near a clear mountain stream. It was the old "Barkshed Forest Camp" and was the show-off place for visitors to the forest. The picnic pavilion at the top of the hill was…
Bayou Bluff
Site Open
Located near the Illinois Bayou, the area exhibits picturesque bluffs and breathtaking scenery. Effective October 2021, Bayou Bluff became a Point of Interest. The fees are suspended for camping and…
Bear Creek Lake Recreation Area
Site Open
The Bear Creek Lake Recreation Area is managed by the Mississippi River State Park. Please call the Mississippi River State Park - Marianna Office with questions at 870-295-4040.The 625-acre Bear…
Big Piney Ranger District
The Big Piney Ranger District is the largest district on the Ozark-St Francis National Forest, encompassing approximately 496,000 acres. The district boundaries include parts of Van Buren, Conway,…
Blanchard Springs Day-Use Area
Site Temporarily Closed
Blanchard Springs Day-Use Area is part of the Blanchard Springs Recreation Area. The area has picturesque rock bluffs, beautiful crystal clear streams and hiking available in the wooded hillsides.
Blanchard Springs Recreation Area
Site Open
The Blanchard Springs Recreation Area offers a rich outdoor experience. Stroll on the paved trail to where Blanchard Springs gushes as a waterfall from the hillside. Swim in the clear waters of the…
Boen Gulf Trailhead
Site Open
Provides access to the Upper Buffalo Wilderness.Driving directions: From Deer, take AR Hwy 16 west to the junction of AR Hwy 21. Take AR Hwy 21 north for 2 miles to FS Rd 1462 (Newton County Rd 6).…
Brock Creek Trails
Site Open
The Brock Creek Trail is a multi-use trail system located on the Big Piney Ranger District in the beautiful Ozark National Forest. The trail system consists of two major loops and many…