The best walks and hikes in Johnson County

This is a lovely campsite with two fire rings and plenty of level spots to pitch your tent. Situated along the beautiful Cedar Creek, there is a waterfall here that drops into an emerald green pool, perfect for a dip on a warm day. It's an ideal spot for an overnight stay, and an opportunity to explore more of this beautiful area while you're here.

Bear Skull Falls, the largest of several along this stretch of the OHT, is a beautiful, multi-tiered waterfall over fantastic slot-like rock formations that end in a calm pool at its base. The falls tumble through a narrow ravine surrounded by mossy boulders and dense forest canopy. It's especially photogenic after rainfall. If you are from Arkansas and are familiar with Cedar Falls at Petit Jean State Park, you'll notice the striking similarity, but not quite as large. The short spur trail to reach the falls is well worth the side trip, perfect for a scenic break to capture some memorable photos

This trailhead sits right along CR 5261 and is one of several access points for the Ozark Highlands Trail (OHT), with a small parking area for two or three cars. While there are no restrooms or drinking water here, there is a small nearby stream if you're exploring the area and need a place to filter and fill up on water. The town of Oark is roughly five miles south of the trailhead. It has a small store with limited grocery offerings and a great restaurant that serves breakfast and lunch, making this road access ideal for thru-hikers who need to take a detour to resupply.

This trailhead is a popular access point for the Ozark Highlands Trail (OHT) for both day and long-distance hikers. There is a small parking lot and an information kiosk with a map and trail register, and a small campsite, with space for a few tents, along with a large fire ring. There is no restroom or drinking water; however, the trailhead sits along the creek of the same name, which is one of many reliable water sources in the area.

This spur trail runs roughly 1 ½ miles south to reach the Mulberry River, a popular spot for paddling with beautiful views. Byrd’s Adventure Center sits right along the river and offers tent sites, cabins, and amenities for hikers looking to rest or resupply, including warm showers, a convenience store, and a restaurant. This spur is the perfect exit or resupply point for thru-hikers navigating the OHT’s midsection.

Hare Mountain, part of a designated Special Interest Area, is the highest point along the OHT, rising to about 2,400 feet. There are several campsites here, with bear poles, fire rings, a picnic table and plenty of trees for hanging a hammock. There is a nearby well, and all sites have beautiful panoramic views of the Boston Mountains, especially during sunrise and sunset. It's worth the detour, even if you don't plan on staying overnight.

Spadra Creek is a nice, large creek that runs past Clarksville. There is a lot of shade along the creek, so it is easy to find a shady, grassy spot to relax during a walk.

The Spadra Trail is a great trail that runs alongside Spadra Creek. The trail is paved and mostly flat. It is popular with cyclists and walkers, so make sure you are respectful of other trail users.