Ozark-St. Francis National Forest – Image Gallery

Ozark-St. Francis National Forest

Details

Ozark-St. Francis National Forest

The Ozark-St. Francis National Forest is located in the state of Arkansas and is actually divided into two separate forests - the Ozark National Forest and the St. Francis National Forest. Together, they cover over 1.2 million acres of land and are managed by the U.S. Forest Service.

Features:

• Beautiful mountainous terrain
• Several rivers and streams, including the Buffalo National River
• Abundant wildlife, including black bears, deer, and various bird species
• Over 400 miles of hiking trails
• Scenic overlooks and waterfalls
• Recreational activities such as camping, fishing, and hunting

Ecological Significance:

The Ozark-St. Francis National Forest is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species, many of which are unique to the region. The forest plays a crucial role in providing habitat for wildlife and protecting important watersheds. Additionally, the forest helps to regulate the local climate and prevent erosion through its dense vegetation and network of waterways.

Overall, the Ozark-St. Francis National Forest is a vital natural resource that provides numerous recreational opportunities for visitors while also serving as an important ecological preserve.

Ozark-St. Francis National Forest

Points of Interest

Ozark-St. Francis National Forest

The Ozark-St. Francis National Forest is a vast and diverse area in Arkansas, encompassing over 1.2 million acres of land. It is home to a wide variety of natural beauty, including forests, mountains, rivers, and wildlife. Here are some of the most popular points of interest in the Ozark-St. Francis National Forest:

• Blanchard Springs Caverns: One of the most popular attractions in the national forest, Blanchard Springs Caverns is a stunning underground cave system that offers guided tours for visitors to explore.
• White Rock Mountain: This scenic lookout offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and forests, making it a popular spot for hiking and picnicking.
• Buffalo National River: The Buffalo National River runs through the national forest, offering opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and camping along its pristine waters.
• Devil's Den State Park: Located within the national forest, Devil's Den State Park is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and rock climbing, with picturesque rock formations and scenic trails.
• Mount Magazine: The highest point in Arkansas, Mount Magazine offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, as well as opportunities for hiking, hang gliding, and camping.
• Richland Creek Wilderness Area: This remote and rugged area is popular with outdoor enthusiasts for its challenging hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic beauty.

These are just a few of the many points of interest in the Ozark-St. Francis National Forest, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Ozark-St. Francis National Forest – Images

Description: A sign for the Cove Lake Recreation Area in the Ozark National Forest. This recreation area has a day use area and campground, and is right off Mt. Magazine Scenic Byway in Arkansas.

Image by Tony Webster from Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States – CC BY 2.0 – Wikimedia

Description: Flame Azalea. Leatherwood Wilderness, Sylamore Ranger District, Ozark-St. Francis National Forests, Arkansas. This photo was submitted for the May 2023, employee photo contest: flowers and pollinators. (USDA Forest Service photo by Robert Duggan)

Image by Forest Service Photography – Public domain – Wikimedia

Description: Harrison, Arkansas on March 26, 2019.

Image by Tony Webster – CC BY 2.0 – Wikimedia

Description: Shores Lake in the Ozark National Forest

Image by Marco Becerra – CC BY-SA 2.0 – Wikimedia

Description: Panel title. Includes location map and tables/indexes of national forest recreation sites. Park information, col. ill., descriptive index to points of interest, and mini maps of Blanchard Springs Caverns and Mt. Magazine recreation areas on verso. Available also through the Library of Congress Web site as a raster image.

Image by United States. Forest Service. Southern Region – Public domain – Wikimedia

Description: Pinus echinata, Ozark National Forest, Arkansas.

Image by Paul A. Mistretta, USDA Forest Service – CC BY 3.0 us – Wikimedia

Description: Shores lake in the Ozark National Forest

Image by Marco Becerra – CC BY-SA 2.0 – Wikimedia

Description: Shores Lake in the Ozark National Forest

Image by Marco Becerra – CC BY-SA 2.0 – Wikimedia