Beautiful Arkansas
Hidden Gems
Who knew there was a Grand Canyon in Arkansas?!
Granted…this Arkansas Grand Canyon is not what you imagine when you think of the one in Arizona, but it is still majestic. The rolling green hills are reminiscent of sand dunes, nestled among the steep mountains and river below. Looking out over the landscape from the scenic overview is quite breathtaking.
The state contains six national park sites, two-and-a half million acres of national forests, seven national scenic byways, three state scenic byways, and 50 state parks.
No wonder one of its motto’s is “The Natural State”.
We knew our experience in Arkansas was going to be magical the moment we arrived. The entrance of the Shady Oaks Campground and RV Park is cute and fun, and we were immediately greeted by our campground hosts / owners (Melissa and Rob - who were very nice, engaging, and accommodating). When they purchased the campground a few years ago, they restored many of the existing features and added elements that create a whimsical landscape for others to enjoy. The park is cozy and welcoming, with one of our favorite features being the small, glowing lights in the trees at night. We felt as though we had invaded a secret cove of green fairies or fireflies. Very cute! It was impossible to capture with a camera, or we would have posted a pic here. You’ll just have to go check it out for yourself! :-)
After settling in at our site, we headed straight for the Mill Creek Trail in Pruitt, AR. We knew it was a short trail, which was perfect since it was starting to get later in the day. However, it was even shorter than anticipated, as the trail had been washed out by heavy rains. So, we circled back and made our way down to the riverfront and chatted with a couple of guys just finishing up a kayak trip and fishing while they waited for their ride. The bluffs overhead were gorgeous and the water was surprisingly clear, given the recent heavy rains. Although, in the few times we’ve visited the Buffalo River, it has always had some of the most crystal clear water (so maybe not so surprising after all).
Next up was the scenic overlook of the Arkansas Grand Canyon. Wow! What a treat! We both roamed around taking way too many pictures, but got some great shots to share (one of our favorites linked above; more available on the Photos page).
The Ozark Cafe in downtown Jasper is where we decided to extinguish our hunger. The veggie burger and curly fries were great (highly recommend)! The cafe is charming, in that you can see the history of the changes that have taken place over the years. We both love exploring old downtown squares and were sad that we didn’t have more time to spend roaming in and out of the stores.
Downtown Jasper, AR
Ozarks Cafe
Twin Falls (Triple Falls)
The next day we tested out the Jeep by driving a steep and windy gravel road down to Camp Orr Campground. Just outside of the campground entrance is a parking lot, with the trail head for Twin Falls directly across. The drive down was interesting, as parts of the road were washed out a bit, but overall in good shape. There are signs along the way suggesting that you stop and rest your brakes. We STRONGLY recommend that you do so! On our way out there was chaos, as a shuttle with a load full of younglings was rapidly honking its horn as it was attempting to grind to a halt at the bottom of the hill. Luckily, they stopped in time, and all was well, but there was smoke pouring from the wheel wells of the shuttle from their roasted brakes. Scary!
That aside…the falls were beautiful! It is a short hike back along a meandering creekside, which is quite peaceful. You can hear the waterfall before you see it, but even in the distance it is pretty. The babbling brook at the bottom of the falls is pure and pristine. We were lucky enough to see Triple Falls, even though the name of the hike is Twin Falls. We highly recommend the trip down to the falls; just remember to heed the brake warnings!
We thoroughly enjoy all of the beautiful scenery we get to witness, and are coming to appreciate the various insects and critters that are a part of the places we stay. I am adjusting to the many creatures that sometimes choose to inhabit our new home. Scott is always overjoyed, and takes every opportunity to launch into a photo shoot with every terrified visitor. In Arkansas, his subject was, what we believe to be a bad-wing moth (dyspteris abortivaria).
He got some great shots, and we believe that the moth left only mildly traumatized.
Check out our Photos page for a few more scenery pictures.
Scotty - Insect Photographer
Bad-wing Moth!? We think so!