Richland Creek Swimming Holes In The Ozark National Forest
Swimming hole in Russellville, Arkansas · Creek
Richland Creek Swimming Holes In The Ozark National Forest is a creek swimming hole. It is near Russellville, Arkansas. Access is free. Best season: The best time to visit is late spring through early fall (May to September) when the water is warm enough for swimming, and the trails are less muddy.
Typical season: The best time to visit is late spring through early fall (May to September) when the water is warm enough for swimming, and the trails are less muddy
About Richland Creek Swimming Holes In The Ozark National Forest
Near Russellville in Arkansas, Richland Creek Swimming Holes In The Ozark National Forest offers a straightforward outdoor swim. Clear water tumbles over smooth sandstone ledges, carves through boulder gardens, and pools in deep, cold hollows shaded by a dense canopy of oak, hickory, and sycamore. This is not a destination with roped-off swim zones or rental kayaks. It's the real thing, and it rewards visitors willing to earn it. The Richland Creek corridor is a study in Ozark geology at its most dramatic. Smooth rock ledges slope into the creek like natural diving platforms, and massive boulders. Tumbled and rounded by centuries of high water. Crowd the banks. Falling Water Falls offers the most accessible introduction: you can pull over roadside and watch the water cascade down a tiered rock face into a clear pool below, all without breaking a sweat. But venture further, and the landscape deepens. The trail to Richland Falls and Twin Falls demands creek crossings and steady footing on uneven terrain, rewarding hikers with scenic views. Wildflowers thread through the understory in spring, autumn paints the ridgelines in deep amber and crimson, and the creek stays lively and photogenic in nearly every season. Treat Richland Creek Swimming Holes In The Ozark National Forest as a wild swim: no lifeguard, variable depth, and rules that can change by season.
Key facts
Structured details for trip planning — verify access and fees with the land manager before you visit.
- Water type
- Creek
- Water body
- Richland Creek/ Falling Water Creek
- Fee
- Free
- Nearest town
- Russellville
- State
- Arkansas
- Coordinates
- 35.89049, -92.89254
- Best season
- The best time to visit is late spring through early fall (May to September) when the water is warm enough for swimming, and the trails are less muddy. Autumn also provides stunning foliage views.
- Access difficulty
- Moderate to difficult. Falling Water Falls is easily accessible, while Richland Creek Campground and the trail to further falls require rugged hiking and creek crossings.
- Parking
- Designated area
- Restrooms
- Yes
- Lifeguard
- None — assume unguarded
- Camping
- Camping at Richland Creek Campground, pretty rustic, rough road, no RV's.
- Land manager
- U.S. Forest Service
- Activities
- Swimming
- Facilities
- Richland Creek Campground offers picnic tables and vault toilets. The area is rustic and not suitable for RVs or large vehicles.
- Listing last updated
- May 12, 2026
The experience
- Best time to visitThe best time to visit is late spring through early fall (May to September) when the water is warm enough for swimming, and the trails are less muddy. Autumn also provides stunning foliage views.
- AccessModerate to difficult. Falling Water Falls is easily accessible, while Richland Creek Campground and the trail to further falls require rugged hiking and creek crossings.
- FacilitiesRichland Creek Campground offers picnic tables and vault toilets. The area is rustic and not suitable for RVs or large vehicles.
- Camping nearbyCamping at Richland Creek Campground, pretty rustic, rough road, no RV's.
Highlights & features
- Falling Water Falls with roadside access
- Deep swimming hole at Richland Creek Campground
- Hiking to Richland Falls and Twin Falls
- Geological formations like smooth rock ledges and boulders
- Abundant wildlife and native flora
- Contrasting swimming experiences: a roadside waterfall and a secluded creek
- Access to additional hidden waterfalls via hiking trails
- Stunning photography opportunities year-round
How to get there
Richland Creek Swimming Holes In The Ozark National Forest lies in Arkansas near Russellville, Witts Springs. Use these driving notes as a starting point and confirm road conditions before you go. Falling Water Falls :
Starting Point - Russellville, AR
From Russellville (located on I-40 about 70 miles northwest of Little Rock), take Highway 7 (RT 7) north for about 40 miles. You will pass the turnoff for the "Long Pool Area" . Continue driving until you reach the town of Pelsor, also known as Sand Gap.
Turn onto Highway 16
At Pelsor, turn east onto Highway 16 (RT 16) and drive through the small community of Ben Hur.
Turn onto CR68/FR 1205
Shortly after passing through Ben Hur, turn left (east) onto County Road 68/Forest Road 1205 (CR68/FR 1205). This is a gravel road, so drive carefully. Continue for about 2.25 miles.
Parking and Access
Look for a pullout on the right side of the road where you can park. The waterfall is visible from the road, making it easy to locate. Falling Water Falls is a wide and beautiful waterfall with a scenic swimming area.
Helpful notes
The gravel road may be uneven in places, so proceed cautiously. There is no formal parking lot, but the roadside turnout provides sufficient space for vehicles. Richland Creek :
Starting Point - Falling Water Falls
From Falling Water Falls, continue driving north on County Road 68/Forest Road 1205 (CR68/FR 1205). This gravel road can be rough in sections, so drive carefully. Follow the road until you reach the Richland Creek Campground.
Parking and Access
Park at the lower campground area. This . Optional Hiking to Additional If you wish to explore more . The trail leads to Richland Falls and Twin Falls, which are about 2.5 miles from the campground. Be prepared for rugged hiking conditions, including multiple creek crossings.
Helpful notes
The gravel road leading to the campground can be uneven, so proceed with caution. The trail to Richland Falls and Twin Falls is not recommended for inexperienced hikers due to its challenging terrain. Ensure you bring appropriate footwear and supplies for creek crossings and rugged hiking. GPS Coordinates for Reference Falling Water Falls Latitude 35.721944, Longitude -92.9494 Google Maps Link Richland Creek Campground Latitude 35.79747, Longitude -92.93211 Google Maps Link Final Notes Both . Cell service may be limited, so plan accordingly. Bring water, snacks, and any necessary supplies for hiking or swimming. Always practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural beauty of the area. Bring water, sunscreen, and gear for a primitive swim day. Weekends and holidays can draw more visitors. Check local updates on access and water levels before you leave home.
Plan your visit
Richland Creek Swimming Holes In The Ozark National Forest works well as a day trip from Russellville or Witts Springs. Stock up in town, then head to the water with food, water, and sun protection. Pair the swim with a stop at Saint Joe Buffalo River Swimming Spots (about 12 mi away) or browse more Arkansas creek spots in our directory. For the full list in Arkansas, see our state directory.
Access & fees
Access is via gravel Forest Roads (FR 1205/CR68) which can be rough; high-clearance vehicles are recommended. Parking is informal at Falling Water Falls (roadside pullout) and at the designated Richland Creek Campground. No fees are required for day use. Facilities are limited to picnic tables and vault toilets at the campground only.
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim at Richland Creek Swimming Holes in the Ozark National Forest?
Yes. Richland Creek Swimming Holes in the Ozark National Forest near Russellville and Witts Springs in AR is a creek swimming spot on Richland Creek/ Falling Water Creek. Scout depth and current before entering — no lifeguards at most natural access points.
Is Richland Creek Swimming Holes in the Ozark National Forest free?
Access is generally free (fee listed as “None”). Confirm any parking or day-use rules on site, and pack out trash.
How do you get to Richland Creek Swimming Holes in the Ozark National Forest?
Richland Creek Swimming Holes in the Ozark National Forest is in AR within day-trip range of Russellville and Witts Springs. Use a current map for the put-in or park entrance; cell service can be limited at remote spots.
Explore more nearby swimming guides
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Map & location
Culture & history
Nearby Witts Springs has historical ties to early settlers and figures like John Campbell, offering a glimpse into Arkansas’s past.
Conservation
Follow Leave No Trace principles. Avoid littering, stay on designated trails, and respect wildlife habitats to preserve the area's natural beauty.
Sources & updates
Official land managers cited on this page
Always confirm current rules, closures, and fees on the agency site before visiting.
Reference sources
Spotted outdated access, fees, or safety info? Send a correction with the page URL — we review every submission.