Ozark Travel Guide

Planning to visit Ozark? Here's your ultimate travel guide with information on what to do, see, eat and where to stay in Ozark, Arkansas.


Introduction to Ozark

Located in River Valley, Ozark is a beautiful small town in Arkansas, United States of America. Popular for its natural beauty and outdoor activities, Ozark is a well-known travel destination among hikers, bikers, and nature enthusiasts. With its historical landmarks, museums, and art galleries, Ozark also offers ample opportunities for cultural exploration.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we will provide you with all the information you need to make your visit to Ozark a memorable one.

List of Places to Visit in Ozark

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Pivot Rock and Natural Bridge: One of the most iconic landmarks in Ozark, Pivot Rock and Natural Bridge is a natural rock formation that attracts a large number of visitors every year.
  • Ozark Area Museum: The Ozark Area Museum offers a glimpse into the town’s history, showcasing artifacts and exhibits from the area’s earliest settlers to the modern era.
  • The Ozark Heritage Arts Center: A popular cultural center, The Ozark Heritage Arts Center showcases the best of local art and culture. It also hosts exhibitions, classes, and workshops throughout the year.

Natural Attractions of Ozark: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • White Rock Mountain: A popular destination for hikers and campers, White Rock Mountain offers spectacular views of the surrounding hills and valleys. With several hiking trails and campsites, it’s a perfect spot to escape into nature.
  • The Mulberry River: Known for its pristine waters, The Mulberry River is a paradise for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing enthusiasts.
  • Lake Fort Smith: The Lake Fort Smith State Park offers a range of outdoor recreational activities, including camping, hiking, and fishing. The lake itself is also popular for boating and swimming.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ozark

Ozark offers several hiking and biking trails for adventure enthusiasts. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • Ozark Highland Trail: Stretching over 165 miles, Ozark Highland Trail is one of the most challenging hiking trails in the Ozarks. The trail offers stunning views of the Boston Mountains, Mulberry River, and Richland Creek Wilderness.
  • Razorback Greenway: Razorback Greenway is a popular biking and hiking trail that runs for 36 miles from Fayetteville to Bella Vista. The trail passes through several Ozark towns and offers a taste of the local culture.
  • White Rock Mountain Loop Trail: The White Rock Mountain Loop Trail is an 8.6-mile trail that takes you through the Ozark National Forest. Offering scenic views, waterfalls, and rock formations, this trail is perfect for intermediate hikers.

Best Things to Do in Ozark: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and biking, Ozark offers several enjoyable activities and tours to make your visit more memorable. Here are some of our top recommendations:

  • Canoeing on the Mulberry River: Spend a day canoeing down the Mulberry River and enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way.
  • Antiquing in Downtown Ozark: Explore the unique antique shops and boutiques in downtown Ozark and find the perfect souvenirs to bring back home.
  • Horseback Riding at Horseshoe Canyon Ranch: Horseshoe Canyon Ranch offers guided horseback trail rides through the scenic Ozark Mountains.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ozark

With so much to see and do, it’s easy to spend a week in Ozark. Here’s a suggested seven-day itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Hiking to Whitaker Point
2 Canoeing on the Mulberry River
3 Exploring the Ozark Area Museum and Heritage Center
4 Biking the Razorback Greenway
5 Horseback riding at Horseshoe Canyon Ranch
6 Visiting Pivot Rock and Natural Bridge
7 Relaxing at Lake Fort Smith State Park

Food and Drink Scene of Ozark

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fried Catfish: A Southern classic, fried catfish is a must-try in Ozark. You can find it on the menu at many local restaurants.
  • Barbecue: Ozark’s barbecue is some of the best in Arkansas, and you shouldn’t miss out on trying it.
  • Burgers: Whether it’s a classic cheeseburger or a fancy gourmet burger, Ozark is known for its delicious burgers.

Local Beverages

  • Craft Beer: Ozark has a growing craft beer scene, with several local breweries offering a variety of unique and flavorful brews.
  • Fruit Wines: Fruit wines, made from local fruits like cherries and blackberries, are also popular in Ozark.

Where to Stay in Ozark: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Ozark offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Some popular choices include:

  • Ozark Inn: A budget-friendly option that offers clean and comfortable rooms.
  • Lake Fort Smith State Park Cabins: Cabins in Lake Fort Smith State Park are a great choice for those who want to be close to nature but still have all the amenities.
  • Mount Magazine Lodge: Nestled atop Mount Magazine, this lodge offers stunning views and luxurious accommodations.

What to Buy in Ozark: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Honey: Ozark’s honey is famous for its unique flavor. You can find it at several local farmers’ markets.
  • Pottery: Handcrafted pottery pieces can be found in several Ozark shops.
  • Quilts: Ozark is known for its beautiful, handcrafted quilts, which make perfect souvenirs to bring home.

Local Culture and Customs of Ozark

Ozark has strong ties to its roots, and you’ll find that many residents take pride in preserving the town’s history and culture. Religious values and rural lifestyles are also an essential part of Ozark’s local customs.

Best Time to Visit Ozark

The best time to visit Ozark is between April and October when the weather is mild, and outdoor activities can be enjoyed without restriction. Fall is an especially beautiful season in Ozark, with colorful foliage and cooler temperatures.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ozark

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine: Ozark’s food scene is something you don’t want to miss out on.
  • Respect local customs: Ozark is a rural, religious community, and it’s essential to respect local customs and values.

Don’t:

  • Litter: Keep the natural beauty of Ozark intact by not littering.
  • Go off-trail: Stick to designated hiking and biking trails to preserve the local flora and fauna.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ozark

Ozark is a safe town to explore, but it’s always important to remain vigilant, especially if you’re hiking or biking in remote areas. During hunting season, be sure to wear bright clothing to make yourself visible to hunters.

Health in Ozark

Ticks can be prevalent in Ozark, so it’s essential to take precautions against tick bites by wearing insect repellent and checking yourself for ticks after being outdoors.

Getting to Ozark: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Ozark

  • Fort Smith Regional Airport: The Fort Smith Regional Airport is about 45 miles away from Ozark.
  • Clinton National Airport: The Clinton National Airport in Little Rock is about a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Ozark.

Bus Stations Near Ozark

  • Ozark Transit: Ozark Transit operates a bus service that connects Ozark to other towns in the area.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Renting a car is a great option for those who want to explore the Ozark area on their own.
  • Ridesharing: Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available in Ozark.

How to Get Around in Ozark

Although Ozark is a small town, it’s still essential to have your transportation to explore all the best spots. Car rentals, bikes, and mopeds are all available for rent.

Where to Go Next from Ozark: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Little Rock: Little Rock is the capital city of Arkansas and located two and a half hours away from Ozark.
  • Eureka Springs: A charming, historic town, Eureka Springs is a short drive from Ozark and offers unique attractions like the Thorncrown Chapel and the Crescent Hotel and Spa.

Conclusion

There you have it, a comprehensive guide to Ozark, Arkansas – a destination perfect for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. Be sure to follow our tips and recommendations to have an unforgettable time on your visit to Ozark.

Downtown Ozark Downtown Ozark Missouri Pacific Depot Missouri Pacific Depot Franklin County Courthouse Franklin County Courthouse