Ozark Mountains & Buffalo River Scenic Loop: Arkansas Adventure from Little Rock

Trip Snapshot

• Distance & drive time: Approximately 410 miles round-trip. Little Rock to Jasper via I-40 & AR-21 is ~150 miles (3 hours). Jasper to Eureka Springs via Buffalo River and Scenic 7/US-62 is ~80 miles (allow 2–3 hours with stops). Eureka Springs back to Little Rock (via US-412 east to US-65 south to I-40) is ~180 miles (3.5 hours). This is a full-day drive with stops, or better over two days.
• Best time:Autumn (mid-late October) is spectacular with fall foliage lighting up the Ozarks in reds, oranges, and yellows a photographer’s dream. Spring (April-May) offers blooming wildflowers, lush green hills, and good water levels in the Buffalo River for floating (plus baby elk sightings). Summer is great for swimming and canoeing, but expect heat and more crowds at the river; the forest stays fairly green and shaded. Winter can be peaceful and less crowded; mild days are fine for hiking, though some attractions have limited hours and occasional snow can make higher roads tricky.
• Ideal for:Outdoor enthusiasts (hikers, paddlers, campers), scenic drivers & motorcyclists (curvy mountain roads and vistas), wildlife watchers (elk herd viewing), families (nature activities, easy short hikes, cave tours nearby), and anyone looking to experience the natural beauty of “The Natural State.” Eureka Springs also appeals to art and history lovers with its architecture and galleries.
• Quick route summary: From Little Rock, go west on I-40 then head north at Clarksville on AR-21 into the Ozark National Forest, arriving in Jasper (jumping-off point for Buffalo National River). Explore the Buffalo River area (Ponca, Steel Creek) along AR-74 and AR-43, then continue north on Scenic AR-7 to Harrison and east on US-62 to the Victorian mountain town of Eureka Springs. After enjoying Eureka, return to Little Rock via US-62/US-412 east to pick up US-65 South, which leads back to I-40 E near Conway and on to Little Rock. (Alternatively, from Eureka you can backtrack a bit and take the Pig Trail/AR-23 or other scenic routes if you want more mountain driving.)
• Top 3 highlights:Floating or hiking along the Buffalo National River beneath towering bluffs • Scenic overlooks on Arkansas’s Highway 7 (like the “Arkansas Grand Canyon”) • Charming Eureka Springs with its historic downtown and Thorncrown Chapel

Route Overview
Get ready for a day of winding roads and wilderness wonders. You’ll depart Little Rock heading west on Interstate 40, but the interstate portion is just to position you for the scenic byways ahead. After about 100 miles (roughly 1.5 hours) on I-40 passing by towns like Morrilton and Russellville and skirting the Arkansas River valley you’ll reach Clarksville, AR. This is where the true adventure begins: you’ll leave the flat, straight highway for the curves of AR-21 North, climbing into the Ozark National Forest. AR-21 is a beautiful drive itself expect forests closing in around you, with occasional clearings revealing pastoral farms or mountain hollows. The road follows ridges and valleys; you might notice the air cooling slightly as you gain elevation. There are a couple of small towns en route (like Ozone, where a stop at the Ozone Burger Barn is an option if you’re hungry for an old-fashioned burger).

By late morning, you’ll arrive in the vicinity of Jasper, Arkansas a tiny town (population ~500) nestled in the hills. Jasper sits near the Buffalo National River, America’s first national river, known for its pristine waters and massive limestone bluffs. This area will likely be the highlight of your day. You can take AR-74 west from Jasper about 12 miles to reach Ponca, a key access point for the upper Buffalo River. Alternatively, from Jasper you might first head north on AR-7 a short way to Pruitt or Steel Creek campgrounds both offer river access and views. The route is flexible: essentially, you’ll be exploring the stretch between Jasper and Ponca for Buffalo River sights.

After enjoying the Buffalo River region (more on those stops below), you’ll continue the journey north. If you went to Ponca, you can take AR-43 north through the Boxley Valley (where elk graze) up to Harrison. If you stayed on AR-7, you’ll already be going north through Marble Falls toward Harrison. Either way, you converge in Harrison, AR (a regional hub with gas, restaurants, etc.). From Harrison, turn west on US-62 for the final leg to Eureka Springs (~45 minutes). This stretch on US-62 is scenic in its own right it’s a winding highway that cuts through a mix of rolling hills and deep hollows. You’ll know you’re near Eureka when you start seeing quirky billboards for attractions and the road begins a series of tight switchbacks descending into town.

Eureka Springs is tucked into a narrow valley, with steep streets terraced with Victorian homes and shops. The town’s streets literally wind up and down hills it feels a bit like a time-warp mountain village. The drive through downtown requires slow speeds and sharp turns; fortunately, the speed limit is low and there are pedestrian crossings. Once in Eureka, you’ll likely park and explore on foot or hop on the trolley that tours the town.

For your return, the most straightforward way back is leaving Eureka Springs heading east on US-62/US-412 across the top of the Ozarks. This is a scenic highland route passing through towns like Green Forest and Alpena. Near Harrison, you can either continue east on US-412 to pick up US-65 South at Bellefonte, or take a more diagonal path via scenic backroads (for instance, some might cut down to Clarksville or Russelville through other routes but US-65 is the easier drive). US-65 South will take you through the Ozark foothills, past Branson, MO turn-offs and Bull Shoals Lake areas (if you fancy another side trip), then eventually through Clinton, Conway, and down into the Little Rock area. It’s about 150 miles from Eureka to Conway, and another 30 to Little Rock on I-40. After all the mountain driving, that final stretch on interstate will feel smooth and fast a chance to relax and reflect on all the scenery you encountered.

Top Stops & Experiences

• Ozark National Forest & AR-21 Waterfalls:Family-friendly. As you venture up AR-21, you’re in the Ozark National Forest which offers hidden gems right by the road. One such gem is the Glory Hole Waterfall Trail, about 30 miles north of Clarksville (watch for a small parking turnout around mile marker 35). It’s a 2-mile round-trip hike that leads to a unique waterfall where the water has drilled a hole through an overhanging rock ledge, creating a “glory hole.” This is best seen after rains (in dry spells it may trickle). The hike is moderately easy going downhill to the falls (remember it’s uphill on return). Another roadside stop: Ozone Burger Barn in Ozone is a fun pit stop it’s literally a burger joint in an old gas station/purple bus combo, serving up juicy burgers. It’s a local favorite for bikers cruising the Ozarks. Even if you’re not hungry yet, grabbing a cold soda or milkshake and snapping a photo with the quirky decor is worth it. As AR-21 climbs, enjoy the journey you’ll cross over the Mulberry River (a popular whitewater stream in spring) and wind along mountain ledges. There aren’t many formal overlooks on 21, but simply pulling off on a safe shoulder can yield lovely views into forested valleys. During fall, this whole drive is an experience of vibrant foliage you might find yourself frequently saying “wow” around each bend.
• Jasper, Arkansas Small Town Charm:Family-friendly. Arriving in Jasper, you might be surprised at how small and rustic this “county seat” is. Park around the town square (really, it’s one loop street). There’s a quaint courthouse and a handful of businesses. Don’t miss the Ozark Cafe, a cornerstone diner that’s been serving comfort food since 1909. It’s a great spot for lunch think chicken fried steak, burgers, or their popular chocolate gravy on biscuits if it’s breakfast time. The interior has nostalgic memorabilia and often local characters chatting at tables. Jasper has a few souvenir and craft shops worth a browse you can pick up a Buffalo River t-shirt or local honey. This is also a good place to stock up on any last-minute supplies (snacks, bug spray, bottled water) before heading to the more remote Buffalo River areas. The pace here is slow and friendly; don’t be surprised if strangers say hello. For a quick photo op, look for the wooden elk statue by the Chamber of Commerce building a nod to the wild elk in the region.
• Buffalo National River Ponca & Steel Creek:Family-friendly, with caution. The Buffalo National River is the crown jewel of this road trip. It’s divided into upper, middle, and lower districts; Jasper/Ponca is in the upper district, known for the tallest bluffs and seasonal elk. One must-do stop is Ponca. Take AR-74 west from Jasper about 12 miles it’s a curvy, steep route (use low gear on descents). You’ll descend into Boxley Valley, a picturesque valley with meadows and fences, through which the Buffalo River first begins to cut. In Ponca (really just a tiny community), turn onto Arkansas 43 toward Steel Creek or Lost Valley. Lost Valley Trail is an excellent short hike (2.2 miles round-trip) that starts near the Ponca campground. It winds along a creek to a waterfall and even a small cave (Cob Cave) great for families, just wear good shoes as there are rocks and maybe mud by the falls. In spring, Lost Valley has multiple cascades and lush foliage; in summer parts might be dry but the trail is still lovely and shaded.

A few miles further is Steel Creek a campground and river access with one of the most iconic views: Roark Bluff towering over the river. Even if you’re not floating, drive down the access road to the riverbank. You’ll be greeted by a stunning scene a broad pebble beach, emerald river water, and a sheer gray bluff ~200 feet high curving along the shore. It’s a perfect picnic or photo spot. Kids can wade in the shallow edges (always watch them, the river current can be swift especially in spring). You might see canoes or kayaks launching here if you’re inspired, the Buffalo Outdoor Center in Ponca rents gear and even offers quick float trips from Ponca to Steel Creek (a short 2-3 hour float) if water levels allow. However, note that the upper Buffalo (Ponca section) is often too low to float by mid-summer; the prime floating season here is March–June. If you do decide to paddle, plan that into your day (and be prepared to get wet!). Otherwise, simply enjoying the river by skipping stones or taking a dip is refreshing. The Buffalo’s water is clean and typically a beautiful turquoise color. Wildlife is abundant look for turtles on rocks and herons fishing. In the cooler months or at dawn/dusk, the elk often graze in Boxley Valley (especially near the low-water bridge on Highway 43). There’s an Elk Education Center in Ponca with exhibits and info, too. Bring binoculars if you have them; seeing a bull elk bugle in the foggy valley at dawn (fall rut season) is unforgettable.

• Arkansas Scenic 7 Byway “Arkansas Grand Canyon”:Family-friendly. Heading north from Jasper on Highway 7, you are now on one of the most famous scenic drives in the state (some argue in the country). Just a few miles up the road, you’ll find a well-known overlook with a big view over the Buffalo River Canyon area. Many call it the “Arkansas Grand Canyon.” There’s a pull-off and usually a sign. The view is sweeping: layered ridges fading to blue in the distance, deep hollows below, farm plots visible on distant mountainsides. This vantage point is especially dramatic in fall or at sunset. Conveniently (and quintessentially Ozark), right at the overlook is the Cliff House Inn & Restaurant. If timing aligns for a meal or pie break, stop in! The Cliff House is a small hotel and diner perched on the edge, offering home cooking with a view. Their most famous item is the “Company’s Comin’ Pie,” a mouth-watering pecan/coconut concoction perfect with coffee while you gaze out at the hills. They serve lunch and early dinner (typically closing by sunset). Even if you’re not hungry, you can pop into their gift shop for local jams or crafts and step onto their deck for a quick photo. It’s Ozark hospitality at its best that a scenic overlook has a mom-and-pop restaurant waiting for you.
• Eureka Springs Historic Downtown:Family-friendly (some shops more adult-oriented). Arriving in Eureka Springs feels like stepping back in time. The entire downtown is on the National Register of Historic Places. Park your car (public lots are available at the bottom of the hill near the transit center or upper near the library; street parking can be tricky on steep streets). Then wander the winding streets on foot. You’ll encounter Victorian-era architecture vibrant painted buildings, ornate woodwork, iron balconies. Tiny shops, galleries, and cafes are packed cheek-by-jowl on streets that sometimes are actually staircases (look for Spring Street and Main Street as the primary thoroughfares). Key sights include the Basin Park Hotel (1905 hotel fronting Basin Spring Park step inside its lobby to see vintage photos and maybe the ghost tour schedule), Basin Spring Park itself (a little pocket park with a gazebo, often hosting musicians or events), and dozens of unique shops. You’ll find everything from eclectic art galleries to old-time candy stores. A few must-visit spots: Quicksilver Gallery for local art, Soap Stop & Bucket (Bathhouse) for handmade soaps and spa items, and Fudge Shop for homemade sweets. If you have kids, they’ll love Train rides at the Eureka Springs & North Arkansas Railway (a historic rail depot on the edge of downtown that sometimes offers excursion rides) or the quirky Snake World just outside town (small reptile zoo). But honestly, just exploring Eureka is a joy in itself there’s something interesting around every bend, like a hidden pocket garden or a street performer playing violin.

One highlight is Eureka’s historic springs. The town was founded on “healing” springs you’ll notice several small grottoes and fountains where springs still flow (often tucked along Spring Street). For instance, Grotto Spring or Harding Spring some you can walk down steps into a cool cave-like niche where water trickles out. These are great photo ops and have signage explaining the spring’s history. Also, if architecture interests you, stroll up to St. Elizabeth’s Catholic Church above downtown unique because you enter through a bell tower and it’s a beautiful old stone church (famous as one of the only churches you enter through the bell tower, in fact).

• Thorncrown Chapel:Family-friendly, quiet reflection. Just a few miles outside Eureka Springs (west on US-62), don’t miss Thorncrown Chapel. Tucked in the woods, this glass chapel is a breathtaking work of architecture by E. Fay Jones. With 425 windows and soaring wooden beams, it looks like something out of a fairytale a chapel that brings the forest inside. It’s open to visitors daily (free admission, donations appreciated) except during private events. You’ll park in a small lot and take a short wooded path to the chapel. Inside, the atmosphere is serene sunlight filters through the glass, illuminating the simple wooden pews and stone floor. Even kids often get quiet here, sensing the peace of the space. It’s a place to sit for a few minutes and just absorb nature and architecture in harmony. Make sure to sign the guestbook and take a postcard (they often have free ones). Thorncrown has won numerous architecture awards and is frequently listed among the most beautiful churches in the world one look and you’ll see why. If you’re there on a Sunday morning, you might even catch a nondenominational service with lovely acoustics as music fills the woods.
• Outdoor Adventures (Buffalo River Floating, Hiking, Caves):Family-friendly options. Depending on how much time you allocate, the Ozark region is full of outdoor activities. If you’re staying overnight, you might dedicate time to float the Buffalo River (several outfitters like BOC in Ponca or Gilbert can set you up; popular floats are Ponca to Kyle’s Landing for whitewater fun in spring, or Pruitt to Hasty for calmer summer floating). Hiking enthusiasts have endless choices one standout is the Centerpoint Trail to Big Bluff near Ponca (a longer hike, ~6 hours round trip, but yields a dramatic bluff overlook 500 ft above the river not for small kids or those afraid of heights!). Shorter hikes like Triple Falls (Twin Falls) at Camp Orr can be done with a high-clearance vehicle to trailhead. Also, not far from this route, you could detour to Blanchard Springs Caverns (about 1.5 hours east of Jasper) an incredible underground cave system with guided tours, often touted as one of the most beautiful caves in America. It’s out of the way for this loop, but if you’re a cave lover and have another day, it’s worth it. And for adrenaline, some come to the Ozarks for ziplining (there’s a course near Eureka) or rock climbing (Horseshoe Canyon Ranch near Jasper offers climbing and via ferrata). There’s truly no shortage of outdoor recreation tailor it to your interests and timeframe. Just remember, safety first: if hiking, carry water, let someone know your plan, and be back by dark; if floating, always wear life jackets and check conditions (flash floods can happen after rains). The Buffalo’s beauty lies partly in its remoteness, so plan accordingly.

Where to Eat & Stay

Food:Notable local eats along the loop:

• Ozark Cafe (Jasper): We mentioned it earlier, but it deserves another shout-out. This is classic country cooking try the elk burger (yes, they serve a locally sourced elk burger, lean and tasty) or the “Excaliburger” (a burger served between two grilled cheese sandwiches a gut buster featured on TV shows). Their milkshakes and fruit cobblers make a great treat, too. It’s the kind of place where you might see a mix of bikers, hikers, and locals all enjoying pie together.
• Low Gap Cafe (Low Gap on Hwy 74): Between Jasper and Ponca, in the teeny community of Low Gap, there’s a surprising gourmet bistro in an old general store. Low Gap Cafe is run by a chef who trained in New Orleans, so while you can get a burger or ribs, you’ll also find dishes like duck with blackberry sauce or seafood pasta. It’s an unexpected culinary gem in the wilderness. Hours can be limited (often lunch and dinner Wed-Sat, but call ahead). If open, it’s absolutely worth stopping for a meal that rivals big-city restaurants with a rural Arkansas twist.
• BBQ and Brisket (Ozark style): While not as famous as Texas, the Ozarks do love barbecue. Hunts Brothers BBQ in Jasper (if it’s operating out of the gas station) had decent pulled pork sandwiches. But more interestingly, as you swing back via US-65, there’s Kenda Drive-In in Marshall that sometimes does BBQ nights with a movie check schedule if an overnight. In Eureka Springs, Rockin’ Pig Saloon does a mix of smoked meats and wood-fired pizzas, a good family dinner spot slightly out of downtown’s bustle.
• Ermilio’s Italian Home Cooking (Eureka Springs): A local favorite for dinner in Eureka. Set in a historic home on Spring Street, Ermilio’s serves hearty Italian lasagna, tortellini, eggplant parmesan with warm bread and friendly service. It often has a wait (they have a comfy porch for waiting with complimentary spiced cheese and crackers). Great for a cozy meal after a day outdoors. Save room for homemade spumoni or tiramisu. Note: cash or local checks only, no credit cards (they do have an ATM if needed).
• Local Flavor Cafe (Eureka Springs): For a slightly upscale yet casual lunch or brunch, Local Flavor is excellent. It’s right at the start of downtown, offering eclectic dishes like trout almondine, brie and fruit plates, burgers, and great vegetarian options. Dine on the patio if weather permits and people-watch as tourists stroll by. They also do a nice Sunday brunch with mimosas, if you’re staying over.
• Skybar at Crescent Hotel (Eureka Springs): Up for a unique dining experience? Head to the 1886 Crescent Hotel atop the hill. This grand historic hotel is known as one of America’s most haunted. You can take a ghost tour or… simply go to the SkyBar pizzeria on the fourth floor. They serve good pizza and drinks, but the main draw is the panoramic view over the town and mountains from their terrace. At sunset, it’s hard to beat. Plus you can wander the hotel’s elegant lobby and grounds it’s like visiting a living museum.

Lodging:Rest well in these recommended spots:

• Cabins on the Buffalo (Ponca/Jasper area): To immerse yourself in nature, consider renting a cabin near the Buffalo River. Buffalo Outdoor Center Cabins in Ponca offer comfy cabins with modern amenities and hot tubs, perched on ridges or by the woods perfect for starry nights. Ponca Creek Cabins or Steel Creek Cabins are other options. Waking up in the mountains, possibly with elk in the meadow, is a magical start to your day. These book up especially in fall and summer, so plan ahead. For a rustic but unique stay, Steel Creek campground (if you’re up for camping) lets you sleep right by those giant bluffs but it’s primitive (no showers, vault toilet).
• Jasper & Mt. Sherman B&Bs: If you’d rather split driving, spending a night around Jasper can be nice. The Arkansas House in Jasper has an eco-friendly boutique hotel vibe with a farm-to-table cafe downstairs (note: limited rooms). Further up Scenic 7, Grand Canyon Inn (at the Cliff House) has a few basic rooms with that incredible view right outside nothing fancy, but what a location. Also, near Parthenon (close to Jasper) there’s Little Switzerland Cabins that are quaint and affordable.
• Eureka Springs Hotels/B&Bs: Eureka Springs is known for its charming accommodations. The Basin Park Hotel right downtown is historic and convenient you’re steps from shops, and it has a spa and rooftop bar. The Crescent Hotel, as mentioned, is a beautiful historic property on the hill with gardens, a pool, and ghostly tales (some love it for that, some might not). They offer a shuttle down to town as parking up there is easier. For romance or B&B fans, options are endless: Arsenic & Old Lace B&B, Heartstone Inn, 1886 Peabody House all highly rated with gourmet breakfasts and unique rooms. Many B&Bs in Eureka have jacuzzi suites and private porches ideal for relaxing after a long day’s drive. If traveling with kids or on a budget, travelier motels like The Trails Inn or Edelweiss Inn on the highway offer clean, comfy rooms often run by friendly folks, usually at lower rates than the historic hotels. These are within a short drive or trolley ride of downtown.
• Camping/Eco: Near Eureka, Lake Leatherwood Park has cabins and camping in a city-owned park around a lake good for those wanting more outdoors. Also, the Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge (a big cat sanctuary south of Eureka) offers lodging like safari tents and treehouses a cool experience hearing lions roar at night (they rescue tigers, lions, etc.).

Splitting the trip into two days with an overnight around Jasper/Ponca or Eureka Springs (or both) will greatly enhance the experience, letting you savor each location without rush.

Practical Tips

• Mountain Driving & Car Prep: The Ozark highways are fun but demanding. Before leaving Little Rock, ensure your vehicle is in good shape check tire pressure (properly inflated tires handle curves better and reduce blowout risk), fill up all fluids, and top off the gas tank. There are long stretches with no services, especially on AR-21 and AR-74. When driving steep grades, shift to lower gears to save your brakes (you’ll hear the engine rev higher that’s okay). Downshift before you really need to on downhill curves. If you’re not used to switchbacks, take it slow and give a short honk on blind curves on one-lane roads (like some side roads to trailheads). Locals may know the road well and zip along don’t feel pressured to keep up; use turnouts to let faster cars or motorcycles pass when safe. Also, cell coverage is very spotty in the national forest and river valleys (pretty much nonexistent between Clarksville and Harrison except in Jasper). Download offline maps or carry a paper map so you know your route. In winter, check forecasts a light snow or ice can close these steep roads (especially AR-74 which has very steep sections). In summer, watch your engine temp on uphill slogs if it’s extremely hot out if needed, turn off the AC for a bit to ease engine strain. And always carry some water and snacks in case of an unexpected delay or if you get a bit lost on backroads.
• Buffalo River Safety: If you plan to swim or paddle in the Buffalo, remember it’s a natural river no lifeguards, and conditions vary. In spring, waters can be swift and cold; a life jacket is a must even for strong swimmers if you’re far from shore. In summer, parts of the river are calm and great for a dip but always have someone on shore watching if kids are swimming. Be cautious near rapids and never jump from bluffs (the depth can be deceiving and hidden rocks abound). If canoeing/kayaking, secure your belongings in dry bags and know that a canoe can flip don’t take anything on the river you can’t afford to lose or get wet (keys, phones use waterproof cases or leave them). Also, no glass or Styrofoam allowed on the river use reusable bottles or cans for drinks and pack out all trash to keep this river pristine.
• Wildlife Watch: The Ozarks are teeming with wildlife. Seeing deer is common (especially around dusk along roadsides drive carefully in the evening). Elk will often be out in early morning or late afternoon in Boxley Valley; pull completely off the road if watching and never approach them bull elk can be aggressive in rut season (fall). Bring binoculars for a better view. You might also spot wild turkeys, armadillos, or even a black bear. Bears are generally shy; keep food secured at campsites and don’t leave food in your car at trailheads (a bear can smell it). Snake-wise, there are venomous snakes (copperheads, cottonmouths) in the region, but they avoid humans just watch your step when hiking, don’t reach blindly under rocks/logs, and you’ll be fine. Ticks and chiggers, however, are almost guaranteed in warm months if you tromp through grass wear insect repellent and check yourself after hikes. Light-colored clothing makes ticks easier to spot.
• Timing & Traffic: This loop covers a lot of miles, so start early each day to maximize daylight, especially in shorter winter days. Sunrise in the mountains is gorgeous and worth being on the road for. If traveling in peak fall foliage season (mid-October weekends), be prepared for increased traffic on Scenic 7 and in Eureka Springs it won’t be bumper-to-bumper, but you may find popular overlooks a bit crowded and lodging booked far in advance. Eureka Springs also gets busy during events (Bikes, Blues & BBQ rally, Ozark Mountain Music Festival, etc.). Check an event calendar if an event coincides with your trip, expect more motorcycles or slower RVs on the curvy roads. Patience is key use the slower pace as an excuse to soak in the scenery. Speaking of motorcycles: the Ozarks are beloved by motorcyclists, so always stay in your lane on curves (don’t hug that yellow line, a bike could be coming the opposite way). Give them room if they need to pass.
• Budget & Cash: Many rural places in Arkansas are cash only or have spotty card readers due to limited internet. It’s wise to carry some cash, especially for small cafes, farm stands, or state park fee boxes (for example, some trailheads or parks operate on honor system fees). ATMs exist in Jasper (inside a gas station) and of course in Eureka and Harrison, but not much in between. Eureka Springs downtown has a few ATMs but they may charge a fee; you can also find banks with ATMs on US-62 highway around Eureka. Gas prices might be slightly higher in remote areas fill up in larger towns like Clarksville, Harrison, or Berryville for best prices.
• Leave No Trace: The Ozark region’s beauty is well-preserved; help keep it that way. Stay on established trails to prevent erosion, respect private property (you’ll see lots of “Posted, No Trespassing” signs especially around Boxley stick to public lands and trail routes), and carry out all trash. Even biodegradable items like orange peels don’t belong on the ground animals don’t need our food and it keeps sites clean for the next visitors. If nature calls while you’re out in the boonies, bury waste 6-8 inches deep and 200 feet from water. Essentially, treat the area as you would a beloved park because it is one! The Buffalo is managed by the National Park Service, and they work hard to maintain its wild character.

Rentals & Logistics

• Vehicle choice: For this mountainous journey, consider an SUV or a car with good clearance. While all main roads can be driven in a normal sedan, an SUV provides better visibility on winding roads and can handle gravel turn-offs to trailheads more easily. If you’re renting, something like a midsize SUV (Toyota RAV4 or similar) is a great balance of fuel efficiency and capability. If you plan on camping or have lots of gear, a larger SUV or even a pickup might be useful, but not necessary. In dry weather, a standard car can reach most places just be cautious on any rough county roads. If traveling in winter and snow is forecast (rare but possible), a vehicle with 4-wheel drive or AWD is a plus in the Ozarks’ hilly terrain. For motorcyclists, these roads are a dream, but ensure your bike is tuned up and know that cell service is sparse if you break down.
• Fueling up: Gas stations are scarce in the national forest, so top off whenever you’re in a town. From Little Rock to Jasper, your last reliable gas is in Clarksville (there’s a couple stations at the I-40 exit) and then Ozone (one small gas station) before Jasper. Fill up in Jasper or Harrison before heading to Eureka. Between Eureka and Little Rock on the return, you have ample stations on US-65 (Harrison, Marshall, Clinton). I-40 also has frequent stops. Basically, don’t let your tank get below 1/4 in the backcountry.
• Navigation & Maps: GPS will get you to major points but often will not show smaller points of interest or might misjudge times on curvy roads (45 miles can mean well over an hour in the mountains). It’s wise to grab an official Arkansas Highway Map or the Ozark-St. Francis National Forest map if you plan to explore side roads. There are also free Buffalo National River maps at visitor centers or downloadable from NPS website. If you’re an app person, download maps on Google or try an app like Maps.me or Gaia GPS with Arkansas maps preloaded. Also, note that addresses in rural areas might not compute well in GPS many use descriptive addresses (e.g., “Hwy 74, 2 miles west of Jasper”). When in doubt, ask a local for directions folks are usually happy to help and might even give you tips for hidden spots.
• Emergency prep: The remoteness is part of the appeal but be prepared. Carry a basic first aid kit, especially if hiking (band-aids for blisters, antiseptic, tweezers for ticks). A flashlight or headlamp is smart in case you’re out past dark (or exploring a cave/crevice like at Lost Valley). If you have car trouble, cell service might be out having an emergency roadside kit (jumper cables, fix-a-flat, tow rope) can be a lifesaver to get you back on the road or flag down help. Park rangers do patrol the Buffalo River area and can assist if really needed. The universal emergency number 911 should work from any cell even analog, but you may have to move to a higher ground to get a signal. Let someone (a friend or even your hotel host) know roughly where you’re going each day if you’re wandering off the main loop. That’s not to scare this area is well-traveled by adventurers and you’ll usually encounter other friendly folks, even if not crowds. It’s just good practice in any wild area.
• Enjoy the journey: Lastly, remember the point of a road trip is not just the destination but the experience on the road. This loop has plenty of opportunities to slow down and truly savor Arkansas’s natural beauty. Roll down the windows and feel the cool mountain air in the morning, listen to the rushing of river rapids when you stop at a crossing, and at night, if you overnight in the Ozarks, look up the stars here, away from city lights, are dazzling. You may even see the Milky Way band on a clear summer night. These little moments an unexpected waterfall, an elk sighting, a conversation with a local artist in Eureka will make your trip special. Take your time, be curious, and your journey through the Ozark Mountains will be the adventure of a lifetime.

Reserve theperfect vehiclein Little Rock and get ready to hit the road. This Ozark Mountains & Buffalo River road trip packs in the best of Arkansas’s natural splendor, from river valleys to mountain vistas to historic towns. Happy travels and enjoy the winding way!