The Dry Creek Wilderness Area is an underrated treasure that offers a rugged adventure for anyone near the Ouachita National Forest. Although it’s a rather small patch of land (compared to other designated forested areas within the state), Dry Creek has endless opportunities for nature lovers. Let’s step into this quiet area for a secluded nature connection.

On the northern edge of the Ouachita National Forest resides a piece of land known as the Dry Creek Wilderness Area.
Google/Carmen Smith
This protected land is between the North Petit Jean Mountain and Dry Creek Mountain. The area is a modest 6,310 acres, which makes it one of the state's smallest wilderness areas.
A major part of Dry Creek's charm is its lack of development.
Google/Patrick Caple
This area contains no designated trails or campgrounds. Instead, adventurers are welcomed to explore and disperse camp. No motorized vehicles are allowed within the wilderness but horseback riding is just fine.

To keep this area enjoyable for all be absolutely sure to leave no trace!

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Even if you can't explore the wilderness in person, Dry Creek has a way of creating a sense of tranquility.
Google/Patrick Caple
Anyone that does venture into the wilderness area will instantly feel like the only person in the world. For those of us that are better suited for a park-and-we're-here adventure, there's still plenty of joy in scrolling instead of strolling through the woods.
There's plenty of wow-inspiring spots to discover within the boundaries of Dry Creek.
Google/Patrick Caple
The panoramic ridge lines offers jaw-dropping views of the creek valley below. The actual creek, despite the name, contains gorgeous cascades and even a handful of waterfalls.
It may not be suited for every nature lover, but Dry Creek Wilderness Area is a true Arkansas treasure.
Google/Patrick Caple
Be sure to research this area further before jumping right in. A good starting point would be the Forest Service's webpage. For a virtual tour of the area, watch explorer Patrick Caple's hike right here:

You can also learn more by reading Patrick’s blog on the area right here.

The wilderness isn’t for everyone but we would love to hear from anyone that has ventured into Dry Creek. Tell us about your adventures in the comments below! You can also post photos from any of your Arkansas outdoor outings 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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