Even though the girl group TLC advises against chasing waterfalls, it’s actually a great way to spend a summer day in the Natural State. Take a hike and admire the beauty of the water as you walk. Then, you can find a nearby swimming hole to cool off afterward.

 

This is not a complete list of waterfalls or swimming spots in the state. Arkansas has more than 600,000 acres of lakes and 90,000 miles of rivers and streams, according to Arkansas Tourism’s website, Arkansas.com. Near every major lake, you’re likely to find a spot that can become your go-to swimming hole. 

 

But, to help you narrow it down a bit, we have put together a collection of waterfall and swimming recommendations throughout the state. 

 

Swimming Spots 

 

Benton Swimming Hole (Benton) – This swimming hole can be found beneath the Highway 5 bridge, where it spans the Saline River. Access to the area is simple, and no hiking is required. It would make an easy day trip that is perfect for families. 

 

Brushy Creek Recreation Area (Wickes) – A walkway allows visitors to walk from the west side of the river to the east side parking lot, which has a swimming area and picnic tables. Find an easy, short trail nearby if you’re looking for an easy day hike. 

 

Cadron Creek | Credit: arkansas.com

 

Cadron Creek (Near Conway) – Hidden away in the woods of central Arkansas, this creek offers two access points. The Route 65 bridge area offers relatively easy roadside access. The Route 123 bridge offers a short hike through trails to the creek. 

 

Crowley’s Ridge State Park (Paragould) – This rustic Northeast state park offers 3.5 acres for swimming, as well as a 31-acre fishing lake, and kayak rentals. 

 

DeGray Lake Resort State Park (Bismarck) – For those looking for a less “off-the-grid” swimming spot, look no further than DeGray Lake Resort State Park. Multiple swimming beaches are in the area along DeGray Lake. The nearby resort offers a 90-room lodge, 113 campsites and even a golf course. 

 

Half Bushel (Near Fort Smith) – Among the Ozark National Forest’s rolling terrain, Half Bushel offers cool swimming even on hot summer days. There are no facilities nearby, so be sure to bring everything you need with you. 

 

Jacksonport State Park (Newport) – Along with a swimming beach, pavilion, picnic sites and a playground, Jacksonport State Park offers exhibits about the area’s Civil War history. 

 

Lake Dardanelle State Park (Russellville)  – The Lake Dardanelle State Park is located in two areas on Lake Dardanelle. At the main site in Russellville, you will find a swimming beach, boardwalk and even a visitor center with an 8,000-gallon aquarium. 

 

Long Pool Recreation Area (file photo)

 

Long Pool Recreation Area (Near Russellville) – Found inside the Ozark National Forest, this is a great swimming destination. This site is great for someone looking for something off the beaten path. 

 

Trigger Gap (Eureka Springs) – This is just one of a slew of swimming spots around Eureka Springs. Trigger Gap offers gentle water that runs clear over a gravel bed. There is parking close to the riverbank, so this is great for beginners or those not looking to hike far to their destination. 

 

Lake Ouachita State Park (Mountain Park) – Arkansas’ largest lake, Lake Ouachita is surrounded by the scenic Ouachita National Forest. Find great opportunities for swimming as well as scuba diving, boating, kayaking, and fishing if you’re looking for a sporty, water-filled weekend. 

 

Village Creek State Park (Wynne) – This state park includes about 7,000 acres of forested hills and clear streams. There are two lakes in the area with pavilions and picnic sites nearby, perfect for a day in the water. 

 

Waterfall Views

 

Bridal Veil Falls (Heber Springs) – You do not even have to leave town to see this beautiful waterfall. A lookout deck off the nearby parking lot provides easy views, and a .6 mile trail will take you in for a closer look. However, be careful of slippery rocks and a steep path. 

 

Cedar Falls at Petit Jean State Park (Morrilton) – This is arguably one of the most famous waterfalls in the state. Located in Petit Jean State Park, this waterfall splashes into Cedar Creek at the end of the Cedar Falls Trail. The trip is moderately strenuous, but a nearby Cedar Falls Overlook offers a barrier-free walkway that is wheelchair accessible and allows you to view the falls from above. 

 

Crooked Creek Falls in Caney Creek Wildlife Management Area (Caddo Gap) – Just inside the Caney Creek Wildlife Management Area is the Crooked Creek Falls. It can be viewed from the road or accessed with an easy walk.

 

Cedar Falls | Credit: iStock

 

Eden Falls at Buffalo National River (near Ponca) – This multi-tiered waterfall that you will find along the Lost Valley Trail at Buffalo National River. The lower falls are a focal point of this hike, falling 53 feet to the base. 

 

Falling Water Falls in Ozark National Forest (near Ben Hur) – This waterfall can even be viewed from the road, making it a great option for those who do not like to hike or are unable to. You’ll find it by driving along Falling Water Creek. About six miles down the road is Richland Creek Campground if you want to stay overnight. 

 

Falls Creek Falls at Lake Catherine State Park (Hot Springs) – Follow the Falls Branch Trail in Lake Catherine State Park, and you will come upon a scenic waterfall. 

 

Hemmed-in-Hollow on Buffalo National River (near Ponca) – This waterfall is about 200 feet, making it likely the tallest waterfall between the Rockies and the Appalachian Mountains. You can get to this waterfall by following the Compton Trailhead or while floating the upper part of the river. 

 

High Banks Twin Falls in Ozark National Forest (Elkins) – Hidden off the road is the High Banks Twin Falls. These beautiful waterfalls drop about 70 feet into a grotto. You may find this waterfall is more secluded and takes a harder hike to get there, but once you do, the view is worth it. 

 

Crooked Creek Falls | Credit: iStock

 

Longpool Falls in Piney Forest (Dover) – A fairly short hike through Piney Forest will get you to this waterfall. It is a great option as something to do if you’re staying in the nearby campgrounds. 

 

Sweden Creek Falls at Sweden Creek Natural Area (near Boxley) – Sweden Creek Falls Natural Area is located in the Boston Mountains of the Ozarks. A hike will bring you to this 80-foot waterfall, which keeps the nearby area moist and lush, offering tranquil views. 

 

Twin Falls at Devil’s Den State Park – Follow the Devil’s Den Self-Guided Trail to pass by two of the main features of the park, the Devil’s Den Cave and the Devil’s Icebox. After you explore these and continue down the trail, you will make it to the waterfalls with a bridge to walk you right out next to one of them for the perfect picture opportunity. 

 

Waterfall/Gum Springs Trail at Mount Nebo State Park (Dardanelle) – This seasonal waterfall is en route on the trail from Waterfall Overlook to Gum Springs. Be aware that the trail is steep and has many switchbacks and large rocks throughout.

 

Feature Photo: Falling Water Falls | Credit: iStock
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