There’s no denying that a day soaking in the sandy islands at Lake Ouachita or paddling down the Buffalo National River makes for a memorable getaway but sometimes you really need a true “getaway.” Out of the way and northwest of Greers Ferry Lake resides the Bluffton Preserve on the Archey Fork. Bluffton Preserve in Arkansas offers a perfectly lovely swimming hole for a family day trip. Let’s pack a picnic and enjoy the seclusion!

Most folks will stop at Archy Fork Park in Clinton without realizing there's another must-stop along the creek.
TripAdvisor / management
The park certainly is a lovely stop, though! Enjoy fishing, discgolf, a playground, and walking trails while you're in town! Let's travel a little farther for another family trip.
About ten miles northwest of the park is the Bluffton Preserve, a beautiful slice of paradise indeed!
Facebook/The Nature Conservancy in Arkansas
The preserve is a whopping 985-acre tract of forest in the upper Little Red River Watershed. The area is maintained and protected by Arkansas' Nature Conservancy. You can learn more about their endeavors by visiting their website.
This gorgeous area offers plenty of recreational activities for any time of the year.
TripAdvisor/Management
Nature photography, trail hiking, and even hunting are just some of the reasons to visit the preserve.

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What we're most focused on today is the preserve's swimming hole!
Google/Jeff Briggs
The Archey Fork of the Little Red River flows for four miles throughout the preserve, which means amply opportunities for water recreation! There's an easily discoverable swimming hole not far from the welcome sign to the preserve.
Pack a fishing pole for your chance to reel in some rare catches.
Flickr/Chad
In addition to the typical smallmouth bass, the upper Little Red River is also home to the elusive yellowcheek darter. You and your family can easily spend the afternoon enjoying this beautiful area!
Spend the day wading the creek or stay even longer!
Facebook/The Nature Conservancy in Arkansas
First come first serve camping is available near the swimming hole if you need to spend more time exploring the area. Just remember to leave horses and ATVs at home.
Heading to this little swimming hole can be the gateway to so many more adventures within the Bluffton Preserve.
TripAdvisor/Management
Help keep the Bluffton Preserve well preserved by leaving no trace. You'll have plenty of photos and memories to take home with you!

Would you spend the day at Bluffton Preserve in Arkansas? Is there another out-of-the-way spot your prefer for swim days? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below! We’d love to see your outdoor 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.

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Bluffton Preserve in Arkansas

Melanie J. | June 10, 2022

Are there any good swimming holes in Arkansas?

Arkansas has some great swimming holes that are the perfect spots to cool off on a warm day.  Walnut Creek located at the Charlton Recreation Area in the heart of the Ouachita National Forest is a favorite for many locals. The swimming hole is spring fed, which means it offers pristine waters. Another favorite swimming hole is Crowley’s Ridge in Jonesboro, AR. This 3.5-acre swimming area provides lots of room for locals to splash around and cool off on warm days. Other swimming holes include Gunner Pool, Lake Ponder, and Natural Dam. You can read more about these swimming holes here.  

 What are the best swimming holes in Arkansas?

Arkansas is known to have some great hiking trails and waterfalls, but the Natural State is also brimming with some of the best swimming holes in the Ozarks. Kings River Falls tucked inside the Ozark Mountains has one of the best waterfall-fed swimming holes in Arkansas. The crystal-clear water is a perfect way to cool down on a warm day. Another amazing waterfall-fed swimming hole is located at the Little Missouri River in the Ouachita National Forest. The small, tiered cascades offer a scenic view and a relaxing swim. Twin Falls of Richland Creek and Falling Water Falls are equally amazing. Here are a few more of the best swimming holes in Arkansas.

 Name the most incredible swimming holes in Arkansas.

The most incredible swimming holes in Arkansas can be found at our beautiful lakes. Lake Ouachita is the largest lake in Arkansas, and it has one of the most beautiful beach areas in the state. Crystal Springs Beach is a favorite spot for many water enthusiasts. The crystal-clear water and white sandy beach make it a perfect place to spend the day on the water. Another incredible swimming hole is Sandy Beach located at Greers Ferry Lake. The beach is so beautiful that you’ll believe that you’re on an island paradise somewhere. There are many other lakes with incredible swimming holes and you can read more about them here.

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