Crawford County has a striking north–south contrast: in the north, the rugged terrain of the Ozark Mountains shapes the landscape. In the south, gently rolling farmland alternates with wooded ridges, individual mountains and lakes. Historic places and cultural offerings round out the area. Depending on your interests, you can discover Crawford through its landscapes, its history or its outdoor activities.
Ozark Scenery, Trails and Water
Visitors to Crawford County can enjoy lakes, rivers, mountains, valleys and scenic views. A specific landmark for hikers is Lake Fort Smith State Park: it marks the western starting point of the 240-mile Ozark Highlands Trail. The trailhead is behind the park's visitor center. Along the Ozark Highlands Trail at Lake Fort Smith, waterfalls, ridges and valleys shape the scenery.
Kayaking is one of the activities offered at Lake Fort Smith State Park. The Mulberry River is also widely used for canoeing and kayaking. Alongside the long-distance hiking trail, these offer two distinct ways to enjoy the water. The contrast between the Ozark terrain in the north and the hills, ridges and lakes in the south adds a variety of landscapes to these natural attractions.
Discover Buildings and History
Van Buren's Main Street National Historic District covers six blocks of restored buildings dating from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This historic district is not limited to a single building: the restored buildings span several blocks and reflect different periods of construction.
The Crawford County Courthouse combines a long history of construction with special historical significance. Its original section was built in 1842. The courthouse is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and is considered the oldest still-active county courthouse west of the Mississippi. The Wilhauf House in Van Buren also has two notable dates: it was built in 1838 and remodeled in 1847.
The UAFS Drennen-Scott Historic Site is associated with the Trail of Tears. The site's house and its contents are listed in the National Register of Historic Places. The site also hosts a monthly lecture series. Another historic building can be found in Mulberry: the Mulberry Home Economics Building was built between 1937 and 1939 and is also listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
Cultural offerings are also housed in historic buildings. Arts On Main is located in St. Michael's Catholic Church, built around 1912. Its program includes performances, workshops, art classes for adults and children, and special events. The extensively restored King Opera House hosts theatrical performances; information about events and tickets can help you plan your visit.
Events and Practical Information
The Crawford County Fair takes place every September at Kirksey Park in Mulberry and has been a community tradition since 1920. If you want to include the fair in your travel plans, check the current event dates. This can help you coordinate the annual event with your preferred travel dates.
In Van Buren, the Historic Main Street Trolley stops at the train station, at the intersections of Main Street with 7th, 5th and 3rd Streets, and at the Drennen-Scott Historic Site. Route details may change, so it's best to check them before traveling. These stops offer practical guidance for anyone who wants to start exploring at one of these locations.
Discover more destinations: Natural Dam, Van Buren, Mountainburg, Grant County, Little River, Washington, Crittenden, Greene County
For the broader travel overview: Arkansas.
