If I were to ask you, what is your favorite waterfall in Arkansas? Would you answer Hemmed-in-Hollow, Cedar Falls, or Pam’s Grotto? While those are some of the most spectacular cascades in the state, there’s one that is guaranteed to leave you awestruck. Short Grotto Falls is a hidden natural wonder in the Arkansas Ozarks and it’s one of the most magnificent waterfalls that you can imagine. And there’s no doubt that you’ll want to explore this unexpected, hidden gem in Oark, AR for yourself. So, grab your hiking gear and let’s go!

Even if you’re a wanderlust explorer of the Natural State, chances are, you’ve never heard of Short Grotto Falls. This pretty little grotto waterfall is nestled inside the Ozarks near the tiny town of Oark, Arkansas.
Short Grotto Falls
Dave Outdoors/Google
Since the area isn’t well-traversed, it might be a bit tricky to locate this hidden gem. So, we provided an interactive map for you as well as the coordinates for your convenience: 35.66817, -93.62830.
Google Maps/35.66817, -93.62830
If you would like to make this a weekend adventure, Short Grotto Falls is only 7 miles from Wolf Pen Recreation Area. Here you’ll have access to the Mulberry River where you can camp, hike, kayak, and so much more.
Kris Allee/Google
The falls is located in an area known as Engagement Hollow. And the drive is along unpaved as well as unmaintained roads. So, it’s best to use a Jeep or 4-wheel drive vehicle.
Z A R A/Google

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In the area, you’ll find a flowing creek as well as lots of other waterfalls to explore. In fact, there are over 7 waterfalls that you will encounter and many of them are unnamed cascades. But you'll agree that they’re worth the adventure.
Dave Outdoors/YouTube
Follow alongside the creek, and you’ll eventually get to Short Grotto Falls, and be prepared to be amazed. Not only is it a cool waterfall, but it is an unexpected natural wonder in Arkansas.
Short Grotto Falls
Dave Outdoors/Google
At only approximately 5-feet tall, this waterfall is tiny, but what it lacks in height, it makes up for it with its beauty.
Dave Outdoors/Google
Between the carved out grotto, the majestic trees, the pool as well as the falls flowing over the bluff, chances are, you’ll be captivated by the enchantment of it all.
Eric Hostetler/Google
Have your camera ready because naturally, you’ll want to experience this hidden gem from different perspectives.

Here’s a quick video by explorer Dave Outdoors showing you more of the falls as well as the gorgeous area.

So, have you ever heard of Short Grotto Falls in the Arkasas Ozarks? If so, tell us in the comments about your experience exploring this natural wonder in Arkansas. 

And if you would like to spend the night in the area, here’s a top-rated hotel near Oark, Arkansas, that’s the perfect base camp after a day of exploration. 

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Natural Wonders In Arkansas

Melanie J. | March 08, 2024

What are some more waterfalls in Arkansas that are worth visiting?

Chasing cascades is one of our favorite things to do, and these are the waterfalls in Arkansas that we like the best:

  • Falling Water Falls, Sand Gap
  • Glory Hole Falls, Deer
  • Pam's Grotto, Hagarville
  • Natural Dam Falls, Natural Dam
  • Hemmed-In Hollow Falls, Compton
  • Cedar Falls, Morrilton
  • Magnolia Falls, Deer
  • Kings River Falls, Witter
  • Car Wash Falls, Hagarville
  • Big Creek Cave Falls, Jasper
  • QuiVaLa Elise Falls, Jasper

Be sure to read our previous article telling you more about these gorgeous waterfalls in Arkansas.

What are some of the best natural wonders in Arkansas?

As the Natural State, there are endless natural wonders in Arkansas to see. But here are a few that belong on your bucket list.

  • Pinnacle Mountain, Roland
  • Buffalo National River, Ponca
  • Arkansas Grand Canyon, Jasper
  • Bull Shoals Caverns, Bull Shoals
  • Arkansas Sphinx, Hagarville
  • Hot Springs National Park, Hot Springs
  • Halls Creek Canyon, Ravenden Springs,
  • Lake Chicot, Lake Village
  • Crowley's Ridge, Helena
  • Little Grand Canyon, Chidester

Read our article to discover more about these natural wonders in Arkansas.

What are the best hiking trails in Arkansas?

If you want to spend time exploring our great state, here are the best hiking trails in Arkansas that will take you on a grand adventure.

  • Whitaker's Point (Hawksbill Crag), Kingston
  • Goat Trail, Ponca
  • Indian Rockhouse Nature Trail, Yellville
  • Lost Valley Trail, Ponca
  • Tanyard Creek Loop 2, Bella Vista
  • Bear Cave Trail, Morrilton
  • Pinnacle Mountain West Summit Trail, Roland
  • Yellow Rock Trail, Winslow
  • Rocky Valley Trail/East Quarry Spur, Little Rock
  • Pinnacle Mountain East Summit Trail, Roland
  • Seven Hollows Trail, Morrilton
  • North Rim Trail, Paris

Check out our previous article to learn more about the best hiking trails in Arkansas. 

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Featured Addresses
Short Grotto Falls, Forest Service Rd 1522, Oark, AR 72852, USA