Explore Harrison, Arkansas
Harrison is a city in northwest Arkansas and the county seat of Boone County. It is located on Crooked Creek in the Ozark Mountains, 80 miles south of Springfield, Missouri. In 1869, Harrison was surveyed and founded by Colonel Marcus LaRue Harrison. The city became officially incorporated on March 1, 1876. Harrison's development was sparked by the arrival of the Missouri and North Arkansas Railway in 1900. It turned the city into a major shipping location for goods like marble, limestone, dolomite, dairy products, livestock, and dairy products. In 1961, a flood in Harrison's more recent past destroyed many homes and the city's commercial district.
Historically, the economy used to be based primarily on farming and forestry, but today it includes a transport business and produces clothing, aluminum die castings, tiny appliances, and furniture frames. Following the construction of the White River dams, which led to the creation of Bull Shoals Lake and State Park, tourism started to gain traction. To the south are portions of the Ozark National Forest and the Buffalo National River, with various wildlife to view. There are several limestone caves close by. Visitors to the area enjoy caving adventures at the show cave known as Mystic Caverns. The National Trust for Historic Preservation has acknowledged the historic district around Harrison Courthouse Square, which also attracts many tourists. Many of the city's original business and civic structures can be found in this historic district, such as the 1929 Hotel Seville.
As you stroll through Harrison's central business district, you will enjoy seeing the regional murals painted on the buildings. You will especially enjoy viewing the murals honoring the Native American people of the area. They are all grouped under the theme of "Natural State, Natural Art". The city hosts festivals such as the Arkansas State Hot Air Balloon Championships and Fridays on the Square Cruise. You can watch one of the 75 sporting events held in the city each year, including basketball, football, softball, volleyball, and baseball.
Campgrounds Near Harrison, Arkansas
Shady Oaks Campground and RV Park in Harrison is a spotless, well-kept campground that welcomes pets. There is a children's play area, and each campsite has a fire ring. It has back-in and pull-through sites with full hookups. You will appreciate the shower, the good cell signal, and the readily available Wi-Fi.
Harrison Village Campground is in the heart of the Ozarks. The campground is peaceful, surrounded by trees, and conveniently located near major cities. The 10-acre park offers full hookups, grills, and picnic tables. You will appreciate the services, which include a meeting room, a laundromat, an RV supply store, a pavilion and horseshoe pit, and free Wi-Fi. You will also enjoy hiking on the nearby trails with your pet.
Dogwood Springs Campground has excellent hiking, canoeing, caverns, and elk viewing opportunities. It offers cabins and tent sites in addition to its 20 RV back-in and pull-through sites with full hookups. Enjoy the campground's numerous shady trees, picnic tables, swimming pool, outdoor pavilion, and fire rings.
State Parks Near Harrison, Arkansas
Withrow Springs State Park is located about 49 miles from Harrison in Huntsville, AL. This park is known for its beautiful waterfalls, caves, and hiking trails. Enjoy the main trail that runs along War Eagle Creek, or check out the Lost Valley Trail, a 2.2-mile loop that takes you through a dry ravine and around a small lake. Bring your boat and explore the serene waters of Lake Wedington, which is located within the park's boundaries. You will also find camping and picnic sites, a bathhouse, playgrounds, and more.
Drive 95.2 miles south of Harrison to explore the gorgeous Mount Nebo State Park located near Dardanelle, Arkansas. This park offers panoramic views of the Arkansas River Valley and provides a great place for hiking, camping, and fishing. You can explore the trails and take in the stunning views of Petit Jean Mountain and Lake Dardanelle. Visit the Jesus Rocks Trail, which is a 1.5-mile loop with beautiful views, or take a stroll along the winding trails of Buffalo Point. Enjoy fishing and boating on Lake Dardanelle, or tour the Arkansas River as you keep your eyes open for local wildlife. The park also offers cabins and a campground for overnight stays.
Petit Jean State Park is another great option located about 109 miles south of Harrison. You can take in the breathtaking views from the top of Cedar Falls and explore the natural beauty. Visit Bear Cave for a unique experience, or check out Turtle Rocks. Take a stroll along Seven Hollows Trail or explore the Mather Lodge Historic area trails. The Arkansas River Valley is also visible from the park so that you can take in the beauty of the surrounding area. Enjoy a picnic or camping at one of the park's many sites, or take a dip in the swimming pool.
National Sites Near Harrison, Arkansas
If you are a nature lover, you should visit George Washington Carver National Monument, located 115 miles northwest of Harrison. This site commemorates the life and legacy of George Washington Carver and offers visitors the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of this area. Check out the Carver Trail, a one-mile loop that takes visitors through various terrains and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. Visit the Carver Memorial Garden or take a stroll along the interpretive trail. The visitor center offers educational exhibits on the life and work of George Washington Carver.
Drive 140 miles from Harrison to find Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site, where you can explore the historical events that took place there. The site commemorates the nine African American students who desegregated Central High School in 1957. Check out the visitor center to learn more about this event and explore the exhibits. You can also visit other sites near Little Rock that tell the story of civil rights in Arkansas.
Learn the history of the 42nd President of the United States by visiting President William Jefferson Clinton Birthplace Home National Historic Site in Hope, Arkansas. This site is located about 146.5 miles from Harrison and offers visitors the opportunity to explore the home of Bill Clinton's childhood. Check out his bedroom and the surrounding gardens, or take a guided home tour and learn more about the former president. The visitor center also offers educational exhibits on Clinton's life and presidency.
National Forests Near Harrison, Arkansas
Ouachita National Forest is located 134 miles south of Harrison in Hot Springs, Arkansas. This forest allows visitors to explore 1.6 million acres of natural beauty, including rivers, lakes, and mountains. You will love the wonderful views of the Ouachita Mountains, which stretch across the forest. The underdeveloped oak trees give you a glimpse into Arkansas' past. Enjoy camping and hiking in the forest, or take a scenic drive in your RV along the Talimena National Scenic Byway. Visit the wildlife viewing area at Lake Ouachita or explore the trails at Albert Pike Recreation Area.
Drive to Mark Twain National Forest, located approximately 219 miles from Harrison in Missouri. Explore the over 1.5 million acres of this national forest and admire the stunning views of the surrounding areas. Visit one of the many wilderness areas, such as Hercules-Glades Wilderness or Piney Creek Wilderness. You can enjoy various outdoor activities, including camping, fishing, and hiking. Take a walk along one of the many trails or enjoy the peaceful waters of Big Piney Creek.
Visit Ozark-St Francis National Forests, located about 33 miles south of Harrison. You will have the chance to explore the one million-acre Ozark National Forest and 20,000-acre St. Francis National Forest. Caving is a popular activity in this area, so you can explore the many caves or visit one of the many waterfalls. Take a canoe trip along the Buffalo River or go camping and hiking in the national forest. While here, you can access the Mississippi River, where you can cruise along its waters or fish. Keep an eye out for a chance to see wildlife like bald eagles, ospreys, and wild turkeys.
