The first settlers to move to the region were French. They named the area aux Arcs, which eventually became Ozark. Legend says that in 1819, these settlers shot an arrow, saying they would build a community where the arrow landed, and it landed where the Franklin County Courthouse now stands. While it would take a few years, the first post office was built in 1837, and the town was made the county seat that same year, but the city was not incorporated until 1850. That incorporation was lost during the Civil War when all but three houses and all businesses were destroyed.
You can learn more about the history of the area by visiting the Ozark Area Depot Museum. This museum is housed in the old train depot. While the railroad was initially slated to run several miles west of Ozark, the chief engineer for the project reportedly fell in love with a girl from Ozark and was convinced to run the railroad through her town. The first train arrived in Ozark in 1873, and four passenger trains were arriving daily by 1888.
Following the war, many new businesses were constructed as people moved back to town, and the city was re-incorporated in 1869. It soon established itself as one of the leading towns in the Arkansas Valley, which stretches from the Ozark Mountains to the north and the Ouachita Mountains, and it generally runs along the Arkansas River. You will want to explore many outdoor venues near this town of 3,610 people, including Ozark-St. Francis National Forest and Aux Arc Park.
Canning was the first major industry in Ozark. While the cannery is long gone, you will want to eat local produce and livestock from many area farms when visiting this city. Consider grabbing a delicious hamburger at the Ozark Burger Company or some outstanding barbecue at Rivertowne BBQ.
Backwoods at Mulberry Mountain – This event in the Ozark National Forest features three days and four nights of camping and music fun. It is mainly known for its art installations that are put up for each year's festival.
Byrdfest – This two-day festival features live music and lots of vendors.
Square Fest – This downtown September festival features live music, arts and crafts vendors, and shopping fun.
Hot Springs National Park is about 118 miles south of Ozark. You will want to start your visit on Bathhouse Row as you will love seeing the different architectural styles. The oldest building on Bathhouse Row is the Hale Bathhouse, which was built in 1892. It is at least the fourth building at this location. The Buckstaff Bathhouse, built in 1912, is the only building in continual operation since its construction.
Lake Fort Smith State Park is a terrific place to play on the water no matter if you are an angler or a kayaker. Boats are available to rent. This park is also a fantastic place to go for a swim in the pool. The western end of the 240-mile Ozark Highlands Trail is in this park, where you can also find many shorter hiking options.
Mount Magazine State Park is a terrific place to go for a hike. Consider hiking up the eponymous mountain to enjoy the stunning 360-degree views from the summit. This park is also a fantastic place for mountain biking, horseback riding, backpacking, and ATV riding.
Mount Nebo State Park is a fantastic place for swimming, playing tennis, and enjoying a picnic. It is a certified Trail of Tears National Historic Trail Site as all five of the tribes forced from their native land traveled through this location.
While you can find terrific Arkansas landmarks spread across the state, one site that you will not want to miss is the Gallows of Hanging Judge Parker in Fort Smith at the Fort Smith National Historic Site. Start your visit in the small courtroom that has been recreated to look like it did when Judge Parker sentenced 160 men and women to death. Then, head to the basement jail where people would await their day in court. Up to 150 men were often crammed into each cell as Judge Parker tried to bring the peacefulness of the Eastern United States to the lawless Western United States.
There are many great campgrounds in Arkansas, and you can find some outstanding campground options in the Fort Smith area. You may want to think about the William O. Darby RV Community that has a beautiful country setting. Alternatively, you may want to consider Anglers White River Resort near Allison with its gorgeous riverside setting. You can also find terrific camping near Mountain View at the Blue Sky RV Park, only two miles from the White River.
Motorhomes are divided into Class A, B, and C vehicles. On average expect to pay $185 per night for Class A, $149 per night for Class B and $179 per night for Class C. Towable RVs include 5th Wheel, Travel Trailers, Popups, and Toy Hauler. On average, in Ozark, AR, the 5th Wheel trailer starts at $70 per night. Pricing for the Travel Trailer begins at $60 per night, and the Popup Trailer starts at $65 per night.
Do you need to be a certain age to rent an RV in Ozark?Yes. The minimum age is 25 to be eligible to get an RV Rental in Ozark from RVshare.
Does RVshare have emergency roadside assistance?Yes. Every RV rental booked through RVshare receives 24/7 emergency roadside assistance.
Does RVshare offer one way RV rentals in Ozark?Yes. Prior to renting any RV, check with the owner since not all will offer this particular option.
