Jasper

Jasper is an ideal home base for backroad wanderers, floaters, climbers, and curious souls chasing waterfalls and wild elk sightings.

Scenic Terrain

Nestled in the heart of Newton County, Jasper sits amid some of the wildest, most scenic terrain in the Ozarks. More than a third of the county is preserved by national and state agencies, protecting an extraordinary natural playground of rivers, forests, and rugged trails.

In Jasper, the Buffalo National River winds past towering limestone bluffs and has iconic terrain for floating and hiking. An elk herd of about 600 roams the river corridor and is also renowned for caving, rock climbing, fishing, hunting, mountain biking and horseback riding.

Outdoor Experiences

While visitors to the region can certainly immerse themselves deep in nature and adventure, plenty of outdoor experiences are accessible within five minutes of Jasper.

Just four miles south of town is Round Top Mountain Trail with about three miles of looping trails that feature wildflowers in spring, pawpaw trees in summer and brilliant foliage in fall. Pruitt Trailhead, 5.6 miles north of Jasper, is a popular Buffalo National River access point. Nearby Ozark Campground sits along the river. Three miles north of Jasper, Koen Experimental Forest features more than 34 types of trees and plants along a wheelchair-accessible walking trail.

The Little Buffalo River flows through the center of Jasper. It’s easily accessible from Bradley Park and the Little Buffalo River Bridge with swimming holes for cooling off in the summer and fishing action for smallmouth bass, bluegill, spotted bass and catfish. 
From the lookout tower at Scenic Point, located 3.6 miles south of town, you can see for more than 40 miles on a clear day with panoramic views of the Little Buffalo and Buffalo River valleys. Stop in the gift shop for native crafts and Ozark souvenirs.

Charming Town

While this corner of the Ozark Mountains remains remarkably wild, the town provides a charming counterpoint to the rugged terrain that surrounds it. The historic courthouse and lawn with shaded gazebos anchor the square. The surrounding storefronts are home to local gift shops, restaurants, and art galleries. From gorgeous jewelry at The Turquoise Buffalo Mercantile to Bubba’s Buffalo River Store, which is packed full of gifts and outdoor gear, there’s a lot to see in this small town.

Arkansas Scenic Byway 7 threads through town, connecting visitors to iconic Arkansas locales. Jasper offers four seasons of outdoor discovery just 20 miles from Harrison.