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Ozark-St Francis/Gunner Pool Rec Area
Overview
Gunner Pool Recreation Area offers a deep immersion into the rugged beauty of the Ozark National Forest. Tucked away along the scenic North Sylamore Creek, this destination is defined by its towering limestone bluffs and lush hardwood canopy. Unlike modern resorts, this park provides a primitive camping experience where the sounds of the forest and the flowing creek take center stage. It is an ideal spot for those looking to unplug and reconnect with nature in its purest form while exploring the highlands of Arkansas.
Location & Surroundings
Located near Fifty Six, AR, the park is situated within the Sylamore Ranger District. The landscape is characterized by steep hills, karst topography, and the clear, emerald waters of North Sylamore Creek. Accessing the park involves navigating winding gravel roads, which adds to the sense of seclusion and adventure. The area is famous for its dramatic rock formations and the iconic concrete low-water bridge that spans the creek, providing a picturesque backdrop for every visitor and photographer.
Amenities & Park Features
As a primitive Forest Service site, the amenities are limited to enhance the natural experience. The park offers 27 individual campsites, most of which are shaded by the dense forest canopy. Facilities and features include:
- Primitive campsites equipped with fire rings, picnic tables, and lantern posts.
- Access to vault toilets located conveniently within the camping loops.
- Seasonal availability of drinking water via hand-pumped wells.
There are no hookups or dump stations available, making it essential for RVers to arrive fully prepared for a traditional boondocking experience. Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to explore just a short drive or hike away. The North Sylamore Creek Trail passes through the recreation area, offering miles of scenic hiking through the Ozark backcountry. Just down the road, visitors can discover the subterranean wonders of Blanchard Springs Caverns or visit the picturesque Mirror Lake for trout fishing. For a touch of local culture, the town of Mountain View is nearby, known as the folk music capital of the world.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is a paradise for nature photographers and hikers who prioritize scenery over luxury. Because of the primitive nature of the sites and the gravel access roads, it is best suited for smaller camper vans, truck campers, or experienced boondockers. If you are a traveler looking for a quiet escape from technology and crowds, Gunner Pool provides the perfect environment to enjoy the tranquil beauty of the Arkansas Ozarks without the distractions of modern life.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- Hunting Nearby (within 20 miles)
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Andre Lewis
Well maintained camp sites and hiking trail. I also like how accessible and segregated the trash cans are. Highly suggest adding this to your list of sites to visit!
Josh Wise
The pool itself is okay. It is similar to Mirror Lake, but you can swim here (you can't swim in Mirror Lake). Gunner Pool is not big like Mirror Lake, the water looks okay, but not as enticing to swim in. There is a trail you can take over the dam that goes to the left to a small cliff that you can jump off of into Gunner Pool. Some picnic areas as well. There is some trails you can take down to the base of the dam and go into the creek which you can walk through into the North Sylamore Creek near where the bridge goes over it. There is a lot of places there you can sit and relax and play in the water. It is shallow in most places and relaxing. Getting there can be a bit difficult though for people that can't walk good.
Raemie Taylor (Ms. Raemie)
Such a beautiful place! Very relaxing. We went on Father’s Day weekend and it was not busy at all. Maybe two/three other family’s that we saw.
Suzette Moss
It is absolutely beautiful! We took a group of students to BBQ hotdogs after touring the Blanchard Spring Cavern. We had a great afternoon.
Amber Powell
Beautiful place to find peace and hiking with my dogs. Water is clear and cool, flowers blooming everywhere. Awesome drive down a well maintained dirt road to get there. Lots of choices for where to walk around and enjoy the Ozarks
Chris Davis
This is a solid 4 star location , likely never 5 due to no water source and pit toilets only . The location is superb , lots to explore up and down the creek and if you catch it at the right time it’s quiet and empty . Enjoyed the creek noises throughout the night .
Phillip A Watkins
Beautiful place to camp and hike. Not a should there last night. We hiked to Barkshed and back.
Brandi Stoddard
Had a great spot down by the creek great place to hike and get away from it all. Has spot to buy fire wood when you first turn on gunner pool road to left. Has only restrooms no showers $10 a night. Hope we get to go back.