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Winrock Recreation Area adventures

Winrock Recreation Area Adventures

Winrock Recreation Area offers diverse outdoor activities within the Ozark National Forest, featuring hiking, mountain biking, and scenic views along the rugged Boston Mountains.

4,500
Acres Protected
30
Miles of Trails
25,000
Annual Visitors
1950
Year Established

About Winrock Recreation Area

 

Winrock Recreation Area is located within the Ozark National Forest in northwestern Arkansas. The area is characterized by its rugged topography with steep ridges, deep valleys, and striking sandstone outcrops typical of the Boston Mountains. The forested landscape primarily consists of mixed hardwoods and pine, providing habitats for a variety of wildlife including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and numerous bird species. Winrock is popular for its extensive trail system that appeals to hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders alike. The area also features campgrounds, picnic sites, and access to nearby rivers suitable for fishing and paddling. Historically, parts of Winrock hold significance related to early logging operations, and today the area serves as a peaceful retreat from urban surroundings. Visitors often enjoy panoramic views offered by overlooks along the trails, making it a favored destination for photography and nature observation. The combination of rugged terrain and well-maintained trails makes Winrock Recreation Area an accessible yet invigorating place for outdoor enthusiasts.

Highlights

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Big Piney Vista – a scenic overlook offering panoramic views of the Boston Mountains

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Diverse oak-hickory forests with abundant wildlife viewing opportunities

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Extensive multi-use trail network popular for mountain biking and hiking

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Secluded creekside campsites along rolling streams

Notable Natural Features

Big Piney Vista

A well-known viewpoint providing expansive views of the Boston Mountains' rugged landscape.

Buffalo Creek

A clear, spring-fed stream popular for fishing and tranquil nature walks.

Winrock Trail System

A 30-mile network of trails offering varied terrain for hikers, bikers, and equestrians.