Crooked Creek
Crooked Creek is located in North Central Arkansas. It originates in Newton county, flows north and then east through Boone County, and continues east across Marion County
where it empties into the White River near the City of Cotter. A distance of about eighty miles. Crooked Creek has been described as "the blue ribbon smallmouth bass stream of the state."
As Crooked Creek meanders across northern Arkansas it passes through rolling hills, bluffs and pastureland. the stream itself is characterized by deep pools, fast chutes and clear water. Living along the stream are numerous beaver, mink and deer, and an assortment of water-oriented birds, including kingfishers, ospreys and great blue herons.
While the stream's upper reaches offer opportunities for wade-fishing and occasional float trips, most recreational use along Crooked Creek occurs in a fourteen-mile section between the small town of Pyatt and the City of Yellville. The lower reaches of the stream are very rugged. The rocky shoals, tight chutes and willow thickets discourage most visits.
Area Hiking Trails
The Ozark Mountains offer a wealth of hiking
opportunities whether looking for a short day
hike or a multi-day backpacking trip. Some
trails lead to scenic vistas, others to historic sites.
One national river trail follows sections of the
river from Boxley to Gilbert. A few of the more
popular hikes include:
Buffalo Point Area Trails
• Indian Rockhouse (3.5 mi
le loop; 5.6 km)
One of the most popular trails along Buffalo National River, the Indian Rockhouse trail was featured in a National Geographic article in the 1930's. The trail leading to this large bluff shelter once occupied by Indians includes a waterfall, sculptured rock, glory hole and pebble springs making the journey as fun as the destination. One strenuous section on the return trail.
• Overlook Trail (0.7 mile; 1.1 km)
An easy hike to a vista overlooking the river.
Rush Area Trails
The historic Rush area is dotted with old mines and historic structures.
For your safety, please look but don't enter.
• Morning Star Loop Trail (0.3 mile; 5 km)
A hike through historic Rush, once one of northwest Arkansas's larger communities. Passes the buildings of the Morning Star Mining Company, the remains of a blacksmith shop and a smelter built in 1886.
• Rush Hiking Trail
(2.2 miles; 3.5 km)
A climb up historic Rush mountain.
Other National River Trails (Within a Half-Day Drive)
• Buffalo River Trail
This trail follows the course of the river 37 miles (59.6 m) from Boxley to 
Pruitt then picks up further downriver for an addition 18.6 miles (29.8 km) from Woolum to Gilbert. Ideal for multi-day backpack trips, the Woolum section connects with the 165 mile (266 km) Ozark Highlands Trail. This connection can be treacherous during high water, however, so plan ahead.
• Lost Valley Trail (2.1 miles, roundtrip; 3.4 km)
Another popular park trail, this walk features a large bluff shelter, waterfall, high cliffs, and a cave. Bring multiple flashlights if you plan to enter the cave.
National Forest Service Trails
• Ozark Highlands Trail
An excellent multi-day trail. The 165 mile (266 km) long trail extends from Lake Ft. Smith State Park to Richland Valley at Woolum.
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