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🏊 Natural Swimming  ·  Arkansas River Valley

Big Shoal Creek

📍 Clarksville
Nearest Town
✅ Free
Entry Fee
💧 Cool, clear
Water Temp
🟡 Moderate
Difficulty
📅 Spring–summer
Best Season
🏊 Natural Swimming 🟡 Moderate Free Entry
🌊 About Big Shoal Creek

A distinctive swimming hole at the foot of a 40-50-foot rock cliff featuring a natural hole said to be about the size of a half bushel.

📋 Visit Details
Entry Fee
✅ Free
Water Temperature
💧 Cool, clear
Best Season
📅 Spring–summer
Reservation
Not Required
Water Type
Rock-cliff swimming hole
Managed By
Informal / roadside public access
County
Johnson County, Arkansas
Access Difficulty
🟡 Moderate
🗺️ Getting There

Address / Access Point:
~50 mi east of Fort Smith via I-40 Exit 57, near Clarksville, AR

Access Notes:
A 40-50-ft rock cliff with a distinctive hole marks the spot

GPS Coordinates
35.5658, -93.4075
Open in Google Maps →
✅ Before You Go — Checklist
  • ✓
    Check current water conditions — especially after recent rain
  • ✓
    Save GPS coordinates offline before leaving — cell service may be limited
  • ✓
    Pack reef-safe sunscreen, dry bag, water shoes and plenty of drinking water
  • ✓
    Tell someone where you are going before heading to a remote location
  • ✓
    Pack out everything you bring in — leave no trace
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