Gunner Pool Recreation Area

How does a campground that combines rugged natural beauty with timeless serenity sound? Gunner Pool Recreation Area, in the Ozark-St. Francis National Forests near Fifty-Six, Arkansas, defies expectations of modern camping by immersing visitors in a secluded haven of shaded campsites along the crystal-clear North Sylamore Creek. With no water or electrical hookups, this is a destination for those craving a true escape into nature alongside moments of quiet reflection.

Featuring 27 primitive campsites, travelers will find picnic tables, fire rings, lantern poles, and tent pads at each site. Vault toilets and seasonal drinking water (April to November) cater to basic needs, while the historic Gunner Pool—a dammed section of the creek—invites fishing, swimming, or simply basking in the scenic ambiance. The Sylamore Hiking Trail begins right from the campground, offering a 15-mile journey through lush woodlands, dramatic rock bluffs, and creekside vistas. Access to the site requires navigating steep, narrow gravel roads, making it more suitable for tents and small RVs rather than large vehicles.

Located just minutes from Blanchard Springs Caverns, a stunning cave system, and within 30 minutes of the cultural charms of Mountain View (home to folk music and crafts), Gunner Pool is a perfect base for exploration. This campground appeals to adventure seekers, nature lovers, and anyone yearning for an unplugged getaway in one of Arkansas’s most distinctive natural settings.