Natural Bridge, Ozark Mountains Travel Guide

Nestled in the Ozark foothills near Clinton, Arkansas, the Natural Bridge of Arkansas is a captivating rock formation shaped over millions of years by the erosive power of Little Johnny Creek. This 120-foot-long sandstone arch stands as a testament to the slow, powerful forces of nature.Historically, the bridge served as a natural thoroughfare. Native American locals used the bridge long before European settlers came to the area in the early 19th century. Later, it facilitated the transportation of timber using mule-drawn carriages to nearby sawmills. The expansion of the M&NA Railroad in the late 1880s increased logging in the area. Legend has it that the bridge and its surrounding rock shelters were even used as hideouts by Civil War Jayhawkers and the notorious outlaw Belle Starr.Today, visitors can explore the natural beauty and history of the site. Although you can't walk on the bridge itself for safety reasons, there are viewing areas offering spectacular perspectives. The property also features two 19th-century log cabins. One serves as the entrance and gift shop, while the other houses a museum filled with vintage artifacts from early farm and homestead life. The museum displays a collection of early-era goods, including a century-old spinning wheel, washing machines, and farrier and logging tools. Below the museum, you can find two authentic moonshine stills from Searcy and Van Buren County. The Natural Bridge is open mid-March through mid-November.