Cherry Bend Recreation Area

Ozark, AR 72949

"Only hiked the 4 miles EAST of Cherry Bend trailhead - The trails are exceptionally well maintained and follow a good track throughout the hike. Not terribly strenuous and a good mix of up/down. People in the area are super nice and a pleasure to interact with. Spiders and spider webs across the trail path are a major challenge (every 4-5 feet would not be an exaggeration) but we're in THEIR habitat; just channel your inner Jedi and essentially windmill your hiking pole in front of you for the entire journey - seriously, there's A LOT. Flat camping spots are a challenge (on the eastern section from the CB trailhead) until you get past the 3-mile point; hammock users will have a significant advantage. Even if it's flat-ish, iceberg rocks hidden amongst the leaves will reveal themselves as you prep to post your tent. Again not a dig on the trail... It's supposed to be this way, it's natural and beautiful and primitive - deal with it. I plan to hike this again, though later in the fall (hopefully less spiders and less humidity)."

"Very beautiful great road very great hiking has to primitive tent pads off road"

"Hiked Murray and Senyard Falls trail which is located at Cherry Bend Recreation Area. Very steep, strenuous, and sketchy at times. Very narrow established trail with lots of fallen trees across the switch back trail leading to the falls. Hiked this on 7/27/21 during a surprise rain. Very difficult to climb back up trail when freshly wet. Bring lots of water and prepare for some major scrambling and so many spiders. Very little water flowing. Save this hike for fall/spring time. Download the map on alltrails, and enjoy."

"Great spot! I took a 4 hour hike on the Ozark highlands Trail and enjoyed every minute. Please note, the trail has downed trees that block the trail so be prepared for some careful maneuvering. Don't forget to sign in and to bring bug spray."

"I started my backpacking adventure at the Cherry Bend Rec Area trailhead. It was mid November, which was perfect for this part of the country for backpacking. I hiked in about 3 miles, at that point the trail goes North or you can take the trail to the South, which goes to a gorgeous campsite. It was in the 50s during the day and 20s at night. It’s in the mountains of Arkansas, so there are some steep, rocky inclines. The views are amazing, unfortunately pictures don’t do them justice. There are beautiful valleys and several small waterfalls."