Lake Fort Smith State Park
This site was a bit of a bummer. There was no swimming in the lake, but they do have a pool. Park is only 1 hour South from Bentonville. Beaver Lake is much bigger, much more to do.
Boat rental:
Fishing $50
Pontoon $250
Kayak $20
Fish: bass & croppy
Camping: 2 lodges
Indian Cave, Locke AR
This site has radiocarbon dated Petroglyphs from A.D. 1195-1495. There are no signs for where to go, but the trail is right where the GPS says it is. Park your car on the opposite side of the street and is an easy walk down.
This area has several archeological digs from over the years, and were discovered in the 1930's.
Not a lot is known about these markings or their creators, but here's a site with more information if you’re interested:
http://archeology.uark.edu/rockart/index.html?pageName=The%20Narrows%20Rock%20Art%20in%20Archeological%20Context
Fern Climbing Area (rock climbing)
You’ll have to take a dirt/gravel road to get to the entrance. It has primitive campsites, but makes up for that with amazing rock structures. We definitely will return to this find! There were about 15 to 20 people there on a Saturday with everyone having a good time!
Shores Lake & Campground:
The site had a few kayakers and the water was a beautiful light green. We will definitely be checking out the area again! Camping was closed when we visited.
White Rock Overlook:
You can see the entire valley from here. It’s a rugged dirt/gravel drive up the mountain. Elevation is only 2200 feet, yet seems taller. Camping site is available as well as a local store and access to Ozark Highland trail.
Phipps Branch Waterfall:
This area was easy to get to. The location has a stream with several elevation drops. I expected it to be dry in early August, but it had a steady flow.
Mulberry Mountain Lodging
This lodging center is the biggest commercial outfitter in the area! They frequently have huge festivals and concerts. Kayak and 4-wheeler Polaris rentals are available here.
Nearby sites Pixie and I have yet to explore:
Spirits Creek Falls
Rattlesnake Creek Falls
Hundred Hidden Falls
Frog Bayou Falls
Hundred Hidden Falls
Devils Canyon Trailhead
Mill Creek OHV Trailhead
Pig Trail Falls
Redding Spyrock loop trailhead
Road closed to Grays Spring Recreation Area