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Boxley Valley Historic District: A Glimpse into Arkansas's Past

Discover a living history museum in Arkansas's Ozark Mountains, where pioneer heritage and natural beauty intertwine along the Buffalo National River.

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Nestled in the Ozark Mountains along the Buffalo National River, Boxley Valley Historic District offers a captivating journey back in time. This culturally rich farming region showcases well-preserved buildings from the 1850s onwards, providing a glimpse into the lives of early settlers and the area's unique Ozark heritage. Keep an eye out for the elk that roam freely in the valley!

A brief summary to Boxley Valley Historic District

  • 4699 AR-43, Ponca, Arkansas, 72670, US

Local tips

  • Visit during the early morning or late evening for the best chance to see elk grazing in the valley's open fields.
  • Explore the Lost Valley Trail for a scenic hike featuring caves, rock formations, and a beautiful waterfall.
  • Stop by the Ponca Visitors Center to learn more about the area's history, wildlife, and recreational opportunities.
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Getting There

  • Car

    To reach Boxley Valley Historic District by car, head towards Ponca, Arkansas, within the Ozark National Forest. Use AR-43 as your primary route. The historic district is located at 4699 AR-43, Ponca, AR 72670. As you drive along AR-43, watch for signs indicating the Boxley Valley area. The district is approximately 15 miles from the nearest major highway, US-65. This scenic drive offers views of the Ozark Mountains.

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Discover more about Boxley Valley Historic District

The Boxley Valley Historic District, also known as the Big Buffalo Valley Historic District, is a significant cultural landscape located within the Buffalo National River area in northern Arkansas. Spanning approximately 8,000 acres, this picturesque valley lies near the town of Ponca and is defined by its stunning natural beauty and well-preserved historical character. The valley's history stretches back to the mid-1800s when settlers began farming the land after it served as a hunting ground for the Osage Native American tribe. Today, Boxley Valley retains its pastoral charm, with many farms still operated by descendants of the original homesteaders. These families continue to graze cattle, sheep and grow commercial crops, maintaining the area's historic land use. The district was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1987 and is composed of more than 200 structures. Visitors to Boxley Valley can explore a variety of historic buildings, including homes, churches, and the Boxley Grist Mill. The architectural styles reflect different phases of the region's development, from the simple log cabins of the Old-Ozarks-Frontier phase (1830s-1870s) to the more elaborate structures of the Cosmopolitan-Ozarks phase (1895-1950). Keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife, especially the majestic elk that roam the valley, particularly during the early morning hours. Hiking trails, such as the popular Lost Valley Trail, offer opportunities to immerse yourself in the stunning landscape, with its rolling hills, vibrant autumn colors, and the serene Buffalo River.

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