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National Forest Recreation Area · Arkansas

Lost Bridge North

Lost Bridge North provides a scenic and family-friendly outdoor recreation hub in the Ozark National Forest, offering camping, hiking, fishing, and water activities in a peaceful forest setting.

National Forest Recreation AreaApproximately 2,5004+ Trails

Designation

National Forest Recreation Area

Total Wilderness Area

Approximately 2,500

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Lost Bridge North

Lost Bridge North provides a scenic and family-friendly outdoor recreation hub in the Ozark National Forest, offering camping, hiking, fishing, and water activities in a peaceful forest setting.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Lost Bridge North is located within the Ozark National Forest near the town of Jasper in northwest Arkansas. The area is distinguished by its pine and hardwood forest ecosystems, gently rolling hills, and the clear waters of the nearby White River and Lost Bridge Lake. Established as a recreation area managed by the U.S. Forest Service, Lost Bridge North offers visitors a tranquil natural environment well-suited to both day use and overnight stays. This area provides access to a 250-acre lake, popular for fishing species such as bass and catfish, alongside well-maintained campgrounds and picnic areas. The surrounding forest presents ample opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife observation, including sightings of deer, wild turkey, and a variety of songbirds. Lost Bridge North is also favored for paddle sports, with calm waters ideal for kayaking and canoeing. Its proximity to the Buffalo National River—America’s first national river—adds to the visitor appeal by providing options for extended river trips and exploration in one of Arkansas' most celebrated natural settings. The site's history is connected to early timber activities and river transportation, which shaped the local landscape. Today, Lost Bridge North serves as a welcoming gateway for enthusiasts seeking both active adventure and quiet nature experiences amid the renowned Ozark wilderness.

Field Guide · National Forest Recreation Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Lost Bridge North

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Discover the Hidden Gem of Indian Creek Trail⌖ 2 miHiking
Indian Creek Trail eye of the needle - Buffalo River

Discover the Hidden Gem of Indian Creek Trail

Explore the Indian Creek Trail to the Eye of the Needle near Jasper, Arkansas. This moderately challenging route captures the essence of Ozark beauty with waterfalls and rock formations. Ideal for hiking, photography, and wildlife viewing during late spring or early fall.

Waterfall Wonders at Paige Falls★ 7.5⌖ 2 miHiking
Paige Falls / Broadwater Hollow

Waterfall Wonders at Paige Falls

Paige Falls, near Harrison, Arkansas, offers a moderate hike through lush woodland leading to a serene waterfall. Ideal for photographers and nature lovers, visit during spring or fall for vibrant foliage and solitude.

Hiking the Waterfall Trail in Compton, Arkansas★ 7.5⌖ 3 miHiking
Hemmed in Hollow Road

Hiking the Waterfall Trail in Compton, Arkansas

Explore the 2.3-mile Waterfall Trail in Compton, Arkansas. Known for its challenging out-and-back hike to Hemmed-In Hollow, with scenic views and a 209-foot waterfall—the tallest between the Rockies and the Appalachians. Ideal for adventure seekers.

Hemmed-In Hollow Falls: Nature’s Majestic Choreography★ 8.4⌖ 3 miHiking
Hemmed-In Hollow Falls

Hemmed-In Hollow Falls: Nature’s Majestic Choreography

Explore Hemmed-In Hollow Falls near Compton, Arkansas. This moderate hike features a stunning 209-foot waterfall, with opportunities for swimming and canoeing. Best visited in spring for full waterfall flow, it offers a serene and remote nature experience.

Hiking to Hemmed-in-Hollow Falls in Buffalo National River, Arkansas★ 7.8⌖ 3 miHiking
Hemmed in Hollow Road

Hiking to Hemmed-in-Hollow Falls in Buffalo National River, Arkansas

Hemmed-in-Hollow Falls is a 5-mile round-trip, challenging hike located near Compton, AR. It's the tallest waterfall between the Rockies and Appalachians. Ideal for adventure seekers, it offers breathtaking views, especially after rain. Best visited in late winter through early spring.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Lost Bridge Lake – a central, stocked fishing and paddling destination✦ Scenic wooded campgrounds with easy access to trails and water✦ Nearby Buffalo National River for extended outdoor exploration✦ Quiet forest roads and hiking trails ideal for wildlife viewing
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Lost Bridge North

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Lost Bridge North
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Lost Bridge North
Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Lost Bridge North
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Lost Bridge North
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Lost Bridge North
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Lost Bridge North
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Lost Bridge North
Park Recreation

Picnicking

Available in Lost Bridge North
Park Recreation

Boating

Available in Lost Bridge North
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in Lost Bridge North
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Lost Bridge North.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access for day use; camping requires reservation or first-come, first-served; no special permits required.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Lost Bridge North

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Lost Bridge North Campground

Campground adjacent to Lost Bridge Lake with shaded sites, water, and restroom facilities, suitable for tents and RVs.

Lost Bridge South Campground

Located south of the lake, offering more secluded sites amidst forest, featuring picnic tables and fire rings.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Lost Bridge North

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Compton
⌖ 3.19 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Compton, Arkansas

Compton offers an off-the-beaten-path gateway to the outdoor wonders of the Ozarks, with rugged landscapes and serene solitude.

Fall and SpringExplore Town
Jasper
⌖ 5.83 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Jasper, Arkansas

A charming Ozark town offering diverse outdoor adventures with stunning natural beauty at every turn.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Newton County
⌖ 5.83 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Newton County, Arkansas

A rural escape in the Ozark Mountains, perfect for nature lovers seeking solitude and adventure across rugged terrains and scenic waterways.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Ponca
⌖ 7.15 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ponca, Arkansas

A quaint, rural town offering rich access to breathtaking outdoor adventures in the heart of the Ozarks.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Parthenon
⌖ 8.40 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Parthenon, Arkansas

A quiet rural town offering peaceful access to forested hiking and scenic paddling opportunities in the Boston Mountains region.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Harrison
⌖ 13.41 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Harrison, Arkansas

A welcoming Ozark Mountain town perfect for those seeking outdoor adventures in a landscape rich with natural beauty.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Lost Bridge North

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Primitive Camping at Cockatiel Camp C | Wilderness Rider Buffalo Ranch, Kingston ARKingston, Arkansas · 8.17 mi away
Trails & Outdoor Adventures· Wilderness Rider Buffalo Ranch and Adventure Park

Primitive Camping at Cockatiel Camp C | Wilderness Rider Buffalo Ranch, Kingston AR

Experience true solitude and connect with nature at Cockatiel Camp C in Kingston, Arkansas. Surrounded by towering trees and native wildlife, this primitive campsite offers a peaceful escape and countless opportunities for outdoor fun. Discover why it’s a favorite among serious outdoor enthusiasts seeking a quiet, private retreat.

Nightly, as long as desired

Explore this trip

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.