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Kings River Falls Natural Area: An Ozark Gem

Discover the natural beauty of Kings River Falls: hike to a scenic waterfall and swimming hole in the heart of the Ozark Mountains.

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Kings River Falls Natural Area, nestled in the Ozark Mountains near Witter, Arkansas, is a natural haven featuring a scenic 10-foot waterfall cascading into a refreshing swimming hole. The area offers an easy 1.8-mile hiking trail, diverse flora and fauna, and a tranquil escape into the Ozark wilderness.

A brief summary to Kings River Falls Natural Area

Local tips

  • Visit in late spring or summer for the best swimming conditions and to see wildflowers in bloom.
  • Wear appropriate footwear, as the trail can be rocky and may have areas with shallow water.
  • Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy by the falls, but remember to pack out all trash.
  • Be aware that the road leading to the trailhead is a dirt/gravel road, so drive carefully.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    To reach Kings River Falls Natural Area, navigate towards the community of Boston on State Highway 16, located between Fallsville and St. Paul. From Boston, turn north onto County Road 3175 (a dirt road) and continue for 2.1 miles. Bear right at the fork onto County Road 3415 and proceed for 2.3 miles until you reach a 'T' intersection with County Road 3500. Turn left onto County Road 3500; the parking area and natural area sign will be shortly ahead on your right, just after crossing the creek. Be aware that the final approach involves driving on unpaved roads. Parking is free but limited, with space for only a few vehicles.

  • Public Transport & Walking

    While public transportation options are limited in this rural area, the nearest bus service is available in Springdale, AR. From Springdale, you would need to take a taxi or rideshare service to reach the vicinity of Witter. However, note that taxi/rideshare services may be scarce and costly in this area. From the drop-off point in Witter, you would then need to call a local taxi service to take you to Kings River Falls Natural Area, located at 1543 Madison 3500, Witter, AR 72776. This final taxi ride can cost approximately $20-$30. After arriving, you may need to walk a short distance from the drop-off point to the natural area entrance.

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Discover more about Kings River Falls Natural Area

Kings River Falls Natural Area, situated at the meeting point of the Springfield Plateau and Boston Mountains, protects over three miles of the Kings River, with the picturesque Kings River Falls as its centerpiece. This natural area showcases the unique beauty of the Ozark Mountains, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in a diverse ecosystem. The falls themselves are a 10-foot shelf waterfall that spills into a clear, inviting pool, perfect for swimming and cooling off during the warmer months. The surrounding area features a mixed hardwood forest with pockets of shortleaf pine, steep rocky slopes, sandstone bluffs, and a vibrant shrub community along the riverbanks. The Kings River is unique because it flows from south to north. The Kings River Falls Trail is an easy-to-moderate 1.8 mile out-and-back hike that leads to the falls. The trail parallels Mitchell Creek, a tributary of the Kings River, and crosses a small bridge. The well-maintained path makes it accessible for hikers of all skill levels, including families with children. Along the way, hikers can enjoy the diverse flora and fauna, including dogwood trees, redbuds, wild geraniums, violets, and various bird species. The area has a rich history, with the Kings River named after Henry King, who died and was buried on its banks in 1827. The natural area was established in 1979 to protect the river and its surrounding ecosystem. Today, Kings River Falls Natural Area remains a popular destination for hiking, swimming, photography, and simply enjoying the natural beauty of the Ozarks.

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