Haw Creek Falls
Scenic spot
3.8 mi
4.7 (207)
Hagarville, AR 72839
Creek/FallsAR
Haw Creek Falls Swimming And Recreation Area
By Hidden Swimming Holes Team · Record updated
Background: generated illustration, not a photograph of this location.
Plan a Haw Creek Falls visit with low-water bridge cautions, free primitive camping, vault toilets and the distinction from Fort Douglas on Big Piney Creek.
Water type
Creek/Falls
Access
Informal
Fee
Free day use and camping in the Forest Service's 2026 schedule; confirm current notices before travel.
Best season
Choose stable weather and check creek levels. High water can prevent safe arrival even outside swimming season
Nearby towns
Russellville, Dover, Pelsor
Water body
Haw Creek/Big Piney Creek
Location
Map & Directions
Nearby towns
Russellville, Dover, Pelsor
Recreation-area reference location
35.677000, -93.255050
Recorded coordinates have not been source-checked. Confirm the entrance and legal access before using directions.
A closer look
Photos of Haw Creek Falls Swimming And Recreation Area
Photos show past visits, not current water levels or swimming conditions. Select a photo to view it larger.
Sources & checks
This is a desk-researched listing. A record update or map check does not confirm current swimming permission or water conditions.
- Swimming rules
- Official sources checked . See the rules above and check for current closures.
- Recreation-area reference location
- The map uses a recreation-area reference coordinate from the manager, not a surveyed entrance, parking space or safe water-entry point. Follow current signs and confirm access before travelling.
- Record updated
- · This is a data update, not a field visit.
Found an error? Send a correction with the location and a source. How we research listings.
Haw Creek Falls: a waterfall stop with weather-dependent access
This listing focuses on the Forest Service recreation area at Haw Creek Falls. The falls and wooded surroundings make it a useful stop for waterfall viewing, a picnic or primitive camping. A scenic creek is not proof that water entry is safe on the day you visit.
Check the low-water bridge first
The entrance crosses a low-water bridge and the area can flash flood. The Forest Service specifically warns that an open entrance does not mean conditions are safe. Cancel or turn back if the crossing is flooded, water is rising or storms threaten the watershed. Do not drive through water to reach the campground.
Camping and basic facilities
Bring drinking water, food and a way to carry out all waste. This is a primitive stop rather than a full-service campground. Consult the 2026 Forest Service fee schedule for the free day-use and camping listing and vault-toilet facilities. Check current alerts for changes before travel.
Haw Creek is not Fort Douglas Bridge
The old listing combined Haw Creek Falls with a separate Big Piney Creek stop at Fort Douglas Bridge. The map now represents Haw Creek Falls recreation-area coordinates. We have not confirmed current public water access, parking permission or rope swings at Fort Douglas, so this page does not direct visitors under the bridge or recommend jumping there.
Viewing access is not swimming access
The Forest Service identifies an accessible waterfall-viewing trail and the Ozark Highlands Trail connection. Neither establishes a safe or accessible water-entry point. Stay on established approaches, avoid slick ledges and choose a viewing visit whenever water conditions are uncertain.
Getting There
Navigate to Haw Creek Falls Point of Interest in the Ozark-St. Francis National Forest. The map pin represents the recreation area, not Fort Douglas Bridge. The entrance crosses a low-water bridge: do not drive through floodwater. Check forest alerts and local conditions before setting out.
Quick Navigation
Access Notes
A low-water bridge at the entrance can become hazardous. An open gate is not evidence that a crossing or swimming is safe. Fort Douglas on Big Piney Creek is a separate location; current access permission there has not been established in this review.
Plan Your Visit
Parking & Access
Confirm the entrance, parking arrangements, and legal access with the land manager. A map pin does not establish a public right of access. Follow posted routes and never block gates or driveways.
Regulations & Fees
Current swimming permission has not been independently confirmed for this listing. Check official rules, fees, hours, and closures before visiting. Public park access does not necessarily include permission to swim. Respect private property and posted restrictions.
Seasonality & Flow
Water conditions can change quickly. This listing does not provide a current safety or water-quality assessment. Check official alerts and avoid entering water when conditions or permission are uncertain.
What to Bring
Bring sturdy water shoes to protect your feet on rocks and slippery surfaces. A waterproof dry bag keeps your phone, keys, and valuables safe. Pack a quick-dry towel, sun protection, and drinking water - never drink from the natural water source.
Nearby Facilities
Nearby places from saved public map data, not necessarily facilities at the swimming spot. Confirm access, hours, fees, and amenities with the operator before you drive.
Map data retrieved 2026-06-15
Long Pool Falls Trailhead
Hiking area
14 mi
4.6 (31)
Nfr 1804, Dover, AR 72837
Pilot Rock Base Camp
Campground
14.9 mi
5 (1)
1074 Pilot Rock Mountain Rd, Dover, AR 72837
Back In The Ozarks R.V. Park
RV park
19 mi
4.8 (28)
700 Broomfield Rd, Dover, AR 72837
Picnic tablesRunning waterTent sitesWi-Fi
Hillbilly Haven RV Park
Campground
22.8 mi
4.7 (41)
9688 AR-333, Dover, AR 72837
Public shower
Dover
Parking
24.4 mi
Arkansas
Dover is a town in Pope County, Arkansas, United States. The population was 1,337 at the 2020 census. Dover is located in the Arkansas River Valley, and is part of the Russellville Micropolitan Statistical Area.
Greenfield Public Restroom
Public bathroom
43.1 mi
5 (1)
AR-309, Havana, AR 72842
Buffalo Point Visitor Center
Visitor center
45.9 mi
4.7 (13)
Co Rd 647, Yellville, AR 72687
Restroom
Live Conditions Nearby
Checking nearby USGS water conditions…
Frequently Asked Questions About Haw Creek Falls Swimming And Recreation Area
Is Haw Creek Falls free?
The Forest Service's 2026 schedule lists free day use and camping. Check current notices before travel.
Can I drive in after heavy rain?
The entrance has a low-water bridge and flash flooding is a concern. Never drive across a flooded crossing; an open gate does not establish safe conditions.
Does this pin lead to Fort Douglas Bridge?
No. It represents Haw Creek Falls recreation area. The separate Fort Douglas stop has not had its current access permission verified here.
Are showers and drinking water available?
Vault toilets are listed, but this review does not establish showers or a drinking-water supply. Bring your own water and pack out waste.
Highlights
Small waterfall and forest setting
Ozark Highlands Trail access
Free primitive camping in the 2026 schedule
Low-water bridge requires a weather check
Unique Features
Waterfall viewing beside the Ozark Highlands Trail
Location & Area Map
Safety Information
Important Safety Tips
- Do not cross flooded roads, jump from rocks or use unverified rope swings
- Avoid water entry during rising or turbid flow
- Supervise children directly and carry drinking water
Cultural & Historical Context
Historical Background
Managed within the Ozark-St. Francis National Forest.
Photography Guide
Photo Opportunities
Reviewed gallery views include waterfall and creek scenery, the Haw Creek Point of Interest sign, and a wooded road. Historical road photos are not turn-by-turn directions or proof that the low-water crossing is passable. Use established approaches and never enter floodwater for a photo.
Conservation & Ethics
Protect This Place
No trash service: take every item home and use designated campsites.
Explore More Nearby Swimming Guides
More Arkansas swimming holes
Browse every listed natural swimming spot in Arkansas.
Creeks swimming holes
Find similar creeks destinations across the directory.
Hidden gems in Arkansas
See under-the-radar places and local favorites in the same state.
Family-friendly spots in Arkansas
Compare easier-access destinations and safer planning options.
Arkansas waterfall swimming spots
Explore waterfall-focused swimming destinations in Arkansas.
Check water quality before swimming
Use this safety guide before entering any natural water.
You Might Also Like
At a Glance
Best Time to Visit
Choose stable weather and check creek levels. High water can prevent safe arrival even outside swimming season.
Difficulty Level
Forest Service identifies an accessible waterfall-viewing trail; that does not establish accessible water entry.
Fee
Free day use and camping in the Forest Service's 2026 schedule; confirm current notices before travel.
Facilities
Pack in drinking water and pack out all waste. Vault toilets do not imply showers or changing rooms.
Activities
Waterfall viewing, hiking, camping; water entry only when conditions permit
Phone
479-284-3150
Safety & Access Notice
This information is for general planning only and may be incomplete, outdated, or inaccurate. Access rules, closures, water levels, currents, hazards, and legal restrictions can change at any time. Always verify current rules with the land manager or official source before visiting.
You are responsible for your own safety and for following all posted signs, laws, and local regulations. Read the full disclaimer.
Camping Information
Designated primitive sites; free in the 2026 Forest Service schedule.
Loading weather data…
Safety & Access Notice
This information is for general planning only and may be incomplete, outdated, or inaccurate. Access rules, closures, water levels, currents, hazards, and legal restrictions can change at any time. Always verify current rules with the land manager or official source before visiting.
- Do not swim where swimming is prohibited, unsafe, or not clearly allowed.
- Follow posted signs, local regulations, closures, and private-property boundaries.
- Assess conditions on site. Water flow, depth, temperature, and underwater hazards change quickly.
- Never jump or dive without personally confirming depth and underwater obstacles.
- Swim with a buddy and consider flotation for weak or non-swimmers.
- Pack out all trash; respect wildlife and fragile environments.
You are responsible for your own safety and for following all posted signs, laws, and local regulations. Read the full disclaimer.
J
Joshua Havens
Founder & Editor, Hidden Swimming Holes
Joshua Havens created Hidden Swimming Holes to make it easier for people to find — and safely visit — natural freshwater swimming destinations across the United States. He researches access conditions, water quality resources, and land management rules so you don't have to start from scratch. He holds a strong belief that good outdoor recreation information should be accurate, honest about its limitations, and freely available.
Explore More Swimming Holes
Discover other amazing natural swimming destinations across America