The Awesome Hike In Arkansas That Will Take You Straight To An Abandoned Cemetery
By Carol Ann Carson|Published March 02, 2019
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Carol Ann Carson
Author
Arkansas native, Carol Ann Carson, has written for OnlyInYourState for three years now. She resides in Western Arkansas' Mountain Frontier but calls NWA home as well. The graduate of University of Arkansas - Fort Smith, Carol Ann earned her B.A. in English and will soon be pursing her M.A. in Library Science. She loves exploring the trails around the Buffalo National River and has yet to find a waterfall that wasn't her favorite.
If you grew up around Van Buren then you most definitely have explored Lee Creek. The reservoir is a beloved gem for summertime swimming and peaceful fishing. In addition to these activities, the area also has a handful of trails. This small trail system leads to the most interesting of places, including an old homestead site and abandoned cemetery.
The Lee Creek Recreation Area has a lovely system of trails that each have a unique feature or two.
Most folks are familiar with the Crack in the Rock Trail that has a nifty crevasse and stunning waterfall; however, this isn't the only trail in the area! Let's explore two of the other trails around Lee Creek. The recreation area is located at 3808 Gelly Dr., Van Buren, AR 72956.
The Cemetery Loop and Homestead Trail are easy to combine and even easier to enjoy.
Both trails together are under five miles and fairly easy to traverse. The Homestead Trail does cross a creek so take caution before hiking with small children.
In addition to the Bodine family, other notable names include J.J. Norrid and Charles W. Fairfield. Norrid served in the 2nd Arkansas Infantry and Fairfield was the captain in the 17th New York Veteran Infantry during the mid-1860s.
This peaceful place has quite a few treasures hidden along the shores.
The historical discoveries along Cemetery Loop and Homestead Trail turn a quick reservoir trip into a well-rounded adventure.
What’s your favorite trail around Lee Creek? Share with us in the comments below and submit your photos in our Facebook Group, Arkansas Nature Lovers. You should join for your chance to be featured and to discover why there’s nothing better than Arkansas’ stunning nature.