Ozark-St. Francis National Forest RV Guide

The Ozark National Forest covers 1.2 million acres in the Ozark mountains of northern Arkansas while the St. Francis National Forest covers 22,600 acres in eastern Arkansas. The Ozark-St. Francis National Forest is characterized by narrow V-shaped valleys bordered by vertical bluffs of sandstone and limestone that soar over clear mountain streams. The forest understory is full of dogwoods, maples, and redbuds that bloom in the spring and blaze in the fall under lush hardwood and pine canopies. 

The forest includes four wilderness areas and also borders the Buffalo National River. Each of the recreation areas, trails, wilderness areas, or wild and scenic rivers provides unique opportunities to observe nature and enjoy your favorite outdoor activities. 

Ozark-St. Francis National Forest is full of opportunities for:

• Camping
• Hiking
• Swimming
• Fishing
• Hunting
• Boating
• Scenic drives
• Picnics
• Wildlife viewing

The Ozark National Forest Scenic Byway offers breathtaking Ozark vistas and out-of-the-way places for those who enjoy a scenic drive. The byway crosses the Piedmont area of Arkansas through the Ouachita Mountains, then drops into the Arkansas River Valley before once more climbing into the Ozark Highlands, taking the traveler through two national forests and a national park, over a national river, and by several state parks.

Along the way stop at Fairview Trailhead for gorgeous fall colors, delicate spring blooms, and access to the Ozark Highlands Trail. 

Blanchard Springs Caverns

Visitors enter a "living" cave guided by Forest Service interpreters where glistening formations like stalactites, stalagmites, columns, and flowstones are constantly changing. Learn more about the caverns, nearby trails, safety, weather, reservations, pets, and more here.

Ozark Highlands National Recreation Trail

The 196-mile-long trail is recognized as one of the most beautiful in the Midwest with scenic bluffs, rock formations, and high vistas all along the trail. The trail starts at Lake Fort Smith State Park near the Oklahoma border and ends at the famous Buffalo National River in northern Arkansas. Learn more about the trail, facilities, activities, and more here.

Pedestal Rock Scenic Area

Take the 2.2-mile Pedestal Rocks Trail to see the area’s unique geological formation called pedestals or take the 1.7-mile Kings Bluff trail to a large flat bluff top with a waterfall that flows over the ledge. Learn more about the area, local maps, restrictions, hours, and more here.

Sam’s Throne

A popular rock-climbing area on Judea Mountain that offers great views of the Big Creek Valley below. Learn more about the recreation area, restrictions, fees, and activities here.

Vintage Cabins

Step into the past by visiting the 1930s vintage cabins on the Ozark National Forest at Lake Wedington and White Rock Mountain. These depression-era WPA and CCC cabins can be admired from afar or rented overnight.