Ozark Highlands Trail Association

2024 OHTA Rendezvous & Annual Meeting
2024-04-26 14:30 - 2024-04-28 15:00 (America/Chicago) | AR
OHTA’s 2024 Rendezvous and Annual meeting will be held April 26-28, and, as it was in 2023, this year’s extravaganza will be held at the dam on Norfork Lake. See the OHTA April 2024 newsletter for the details.

OHTA Adopt-A-Highway Spring 2024
2024-05-25 09:00 - 12:00 | AR
In keeping true to our efforts, OHTA is launching another Adopt-A-Highway cleanup of the organization’s adopted section of Highway 23. If you would like to get out and engage in an activity that benefits your great state (provided you live in Arkansas) and the OHTA, then join us as we beautify our one mile of highway south of Cherry Bend Trailhead on the OHT. Here are the details:

Day and Time: Saturday, May 25, 2024 at 9:00 AM
Meeting Place: OHT Cherry Bend Trailhead on Highway 23
Gear to Bring: water—equipment will be supplied
Total Time Commitment: approximately 3 hours
Contact Info: Randy Soeung—randyly80@gmail.com

NOTE: If you have any questions about this very worthwhile event and/or want to let OHTA’s Adopt-A-Highway coordinator know you plan to volunteer for this month’s cleanup crew, please use the email address above to contact Randy Soeung. We hope to see you there!

OHTA Board of Directors Meeting
2024-06-30 14:00 - 16:00 | Fossil Cove Brewing, 1946 N. Birch Ave., Fayetteville, AR, 72703, United States
Come one, come all to Fossil Cove Brewing Company, 1946 North Birch Avenue, Fayetteville, Arkansas, for the next meeting of the OHTA Board of Directors! The meeting is scheduled for Sunday, June 30, 2024, at 2 p.m. in the Old Tap Room at Fossil Cove. Our organization has the room reserved for two hours, if needed. Of course, you can come early and/or stay late if there is something in addition to the meeting you’d like check out. The primary focus of this meeting is the election by board members of new officers for the upcoming 2024-2025 fiscal year. Hope you can make it to the meeting! Thank you Fossil Cove for making space for us and for being so accommodating! What a great group you have, and your brews are superb!

OHT Maintenance Basecamp #1 - Mulberry MTN
2024-09-13 - 2024-09-15 | Mulberry Mountain, 4117 Mulberry Mountain Loop #9306, Ozark, AR, 72949, United States
OHT Maintenance Basecamp #1 – Mulberry MTN
Location: Mulberry Mountain Campground/Mulberry Mountain Lodging & Events
Friday, September 13
Saturday, September 14
Sunday, September 15
The OHTA will be sponsoring 4 work weekends during the Fall of 2024. This will enable us to take care of some
problem areas, getting the trail ready for hiking season and trail runs/events that the OHT will be hosting.
All 4 Base Camps will be camping events (If you want to camp- commuting each day is also an option for some). So,
you can bring your camping gear- we will have several sites reserved at the campgrounds at NO cost for you. Also,
we will provide BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER for all participants. Hard hats and safety gear will be provided.
Members and nonmembers are welcome. Bring your lawn chairs- after the workday, this becomes a social event – sitting around the fire with people that enjoy similar things.
We need individuals to help in many ways- Loppers, Sawyers, Trimmers, “Swampers” will be needed on the trail. We
can also use help in the camp- if you can help cook, clean, take care of the camp, or shuttle volunteers to different
locations- that would be greatly appreciated as much as working on the trail.
We will begin each day of Trail Work with a meeting at 8:30am. Camping will be available on the Thursday
evening before each Base Camp.
Click Link below for Signup Sheet
(email info if unable to use link)
OHTA West Maintenance Base Camp- Mulberry Mountain (google.com)
Note: This campground has restrooms and showers.
MORE SPECIFIC INFORMATION WILL BE EMAILED TO PARTICIPANTS THAT HAVE SIGNED UP.

OHTA Membership Drive
2024-09-28 17:30 - 20:00 | Pack Rat Outdoor Center, 209 W Sunbridge Dr., Fayetteville, AR, 72703, United States
Date: Saturday 9/28Time: 5:30 – 8:00pmPlace: Pack Rat Outdoor CenterCost: $5 (goes to OHTA), or in-person at event.

Join us at Pack Rat Saturday, September 28 for an evening event supporting the Ozark Highlands Trail Association, sponsored by Osprey Packs! We’ll have live music, local beverages and food, and tons of Osprey gear being given away all night! Osprey will have a representative providing pack fits, so if you’re in the market for a new backpack this Fall, this is a great opportunity to get the perfect pack.

Brews: Norfork Brewing Co.Food Truck: La Otra Tex-Mex

Each donation will include:2x beverage tickets
1x giveaway ticket

OHT Maintenance Basecamp #2 - Richland Creek
2024-10-04 - 2024-10-06 | Richland Creek Campground, Campground Rd, Witts Springs, AR, 72686, United States
OHT Maintenance Basecamp #2 – Richland Creek
Location: Richland Creek Campground in Richland Creek Recreation Area
Friday, October 4
Saturday, October 5
Sunday, October 6
The OHTA will be sponsoring 4 work weekends during the Fall of 2024. This will enable us to take care of some
problem areas, getting the trail ready for hiking season and trail runs/events that the OHT will be hosting.
All 4 Base Camps will be camping events (If you want to camp- commuting each day is also an option for some). So,
you can bring your camping gear- we will have several sites reserved at the campgrounds at NO cost for you. Also,
we will provide BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER for all participants. Hard hats and safety gear will be provided.
Members and nonmembers are welcome. Bring your lawn chairs- after the workday, this becomes a social event – sitting around the fire with people that enjoy similar things.
We need individuals to help in many ways- Loppers, Sawyers, Trimmers, “Swampers” will be needed on the trail. We
can also use help in the camp- if you can help cook, clean, take care of the camp, or shuttle volunteers to different
locations- that would be greatly appreciated as much as working on the trail.
We will begin each day of Trail Work with a meeting at 8:30am. Camping will be available on the Thursday
evening before each Base Camp.
Here are the dates and locations: Below is a form for each Base Camp. Please sign up early, so we can get numbers
for each camp so we can order food and T-shirts.
Click Link below for Signup Sheet
(email info if unable to use link)
OHTA Work Weekend-Richland Creek Campground (google.com)
Note: This campground has vault toilets, no water.
(Thanks to East Maintenance Director Sean Prewitt, Hot showers will be available)
MORE SPECIFIC INFORMATION WILL BE EMAILED TO PARTICIPANTS THAT HAVE SIGNED UP

OHT Maintenance Basecamp #3 - Fifty-Six
2024-10-11 - 2024-10-13 | Fifty Six, Fifty Six, AR, 72533, United States
OHT Maintenance Basecamp #3 – Fifty-Six
Location: Fifty-Six, Arkansas
Cedarwoods Cabins
The Great Oaks Cabins
Friday, October 11
Saturday, October 12
Sunday, October 13
The OHTA will be sponsoring 4 work weekends during the Fall of 2024. This will enable us to take care of some
problem areas, getting the trail ready for hiking season and trail runs/events that the OHT will be hosting.
All 4 Base Camps will be camping events (If you want to camp- commuting each day is also an option for some). So,
you can bring your camping gear- we will have several sites reserved at the campgrounds at NO cost for you. Also,
we will provide BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER for all participants. Hard hats and safety gear will be provided.
Members and nonmembers are welcome. Bring your lawn chairs- after the workday, this becomes a social event – sitting around the fire with people that enjoy similar things.
We need individuals to help in many ways- Loppers, Sawyers, Trimmers, “Swampers” will be needed on the trail. We
can also use help in the camp- if you can help cook, clean, take care of the camp, or shuttle volunteers to different
locations- that would be greatly appreciated as much as working on the trail.
We will begin each day of Trail Work with a meeting at 8:30am. Camping will be available on the Thursday
evening before each Base Camp.
Here are the dates and locations: Below is a form for each Base Camp. Please sign up early, so we can get numbers
for each camp so we can order food and T-shirts.
Click Link below for Signup Sheet
(email info if unable to use link)
OHTA Basecamp-Cedarwoods Cabins (Hwy 14) (google.com)
Note: Although this is a tenting event, the OHTA has rented 2 cabins for bathroom/shower facilities.
MORE SPECIFIC INFORMATION WILL BE EMAILED TO PARTICIPANTS THAT HAVE SIGNED UP.

OHT Maintenance Basecamp #4 - Norfork
2024-10-19 - 2024-10-20 | AR
OHT Maintenance Basecamp #4 – Norfork
Location: Norfork Lake (exact campground to be determined)
Saturday, October 19
Sunday, October 20
The OHTA will be sponsoring 4 work weekends during the Fall of 2024. This will enable us to take care of some
problem areas, getting the trail ready for hiking season and trail runs/events that the OHT will be hosting.
All 4 Base Camps will be camping events (If you want to camp- commuting each day is also an option for some). So,
you can bring your camping gear- we will have several sites reserved at the campgrounds at NO cost for you. Also,
we will provide BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER for all participants. Hard hats and safety gear will be provided.
Members and nonmembers are welcome. Bring your lawn chairs- after the workday, this becomes a social event – sitting around the fire with people that enjoy similar things.
We need individuals to help in many ways- Loppers, Sawyers, Trimmers, “Swampers” will be needed on the trail. We
can also use help in the camp- if you can help cook, clean, take care of the camp, or shuttle volunteers to different
locations- that would be greatly appreciated as much as working on the trail.
We will begin each day of Trail Work with a meeting at 8:30am. Camping will be available on the Thursday
evening before each Base Camp.
Here are the dates and locations: Below is a form for each Base Camp. Please sign up early, so we can get numbers
for each camp so we can order food and T-shirts.
Click Link below for Signup Sheet
(email info if unable to use link)
OHTA Work Weekend-Norfork Lake (google.com)
Note: Basecamp at possibly Robinson Point, Panther Bay, or Bidwell Point. To Be Determined.
MORE SPECIFIC INFORMATION WILL BE EMAILED TO PARTICIPANTS THAT HAVE SIGNED UP.

West OHT Work Day
2024-10-26 | AR
On Saturday, October 26 we will have a work day on the OHT. There are a couple of areas that NEED to be cleared before the Hare Mtn 100 Trail Race. Most of this damage is in the Western part of the OHT.

Between Morgan Field TH and Herrods Creek (mm44-45) there are many trees down that will take several people.
West Shores Lake Loop will need a full clearing job of weeds and limbs. The USFS finished sawing trees today, but that section is not in good shape. Some of it will need to be re-blazed.

There will be a couple of other areas identified by our trail runners (scouts) before the 26th. Depending on the number of volunteers, we can let you know where, when, what you are doing on Saturday the 26th. Where to meet, who is in your group, equipment needed will be relayed to you.

Click here to go to the signup sheet.
To sign up, just follow the instructions on the page. It only takes a few seconds to do.

Hare Mountain Hike-In
2024-11-02 - 2024-11-03 | Hare Mountain
Hare Mountain Hike-In
Location: Hare Mountain
Saturday November 2
Sunday November 3
What’s so special about those two days? Well, the 2nd and 3rd of November are when the celebration extraordinaire of OHTA’s 43rd birthday will take place atop Hare Mountain! Remember, this is not a catered event, so be sure to bring whatever gourmet dish you choose to create for the potluck feast on Saturday evening. Also, this is not an RSVP thing because there is room galore up there for your luxury tent suite. And if you do not want to haul water up the trail to the top, there is an old water well near where we’ll be camping. Of course, if you choose that source for your drinking pleasure, don’t forget to bring some means of purification with you—you’ll be glad you did!
If you want to be a part of 2024’s special occasion, there are multiple locations from which to start your hike. However, the spot closest to where everyone will camp on Hare Mountain is the Hare Mountain/Morgan Field Trailhead (can be located on the Ozark Highlands Trail—West map available in OHTA’s online store). From there it is a mere 1.7 mile hike to the top.
In addition, presentations will be made for the winner of the Maintainer of the Year Award, Dawna Robinson Member of the Year Award, and the Trail Ranger Award (a lifetime achievement award).
Come one, come all. This is a perfect opportunity to introduce someone who is new to hiking to the spectacular beauty of the Ozark mountains and the unparalleled experience of primitive camping.

Frost Fest Outdoor Beer Festival 2025
2025-02-01 13:00 - 18:00 | Washington County Fairgrounds, 2463 N. McConnell Ave., Fayetteville, AR, 72703, United States
Join us at the region’s premiere beer festival and experience a huge selection of craft breweries, live music, food trucks, vendors and frosty vibes!
Frost Fest features the best craft breweries from across the Ozarks and beyond pouring samples and talking beer.
Frost Fest is from 1-6pm on Saturday, February 1, 2025 at the Washington County Fairgrounds. Celebrate craft beer, community and winter in the Ozarks while supporting area non-profits. A portion of Frost Fest proceeds will benefit: Apple Seeds, Arkansas Brewers Guild, Arkansas Climbers Coalition and the Ozark Highlands Trail Association.
All tickets include access to the festival grounds and a commemorative sampling glass for beer tasting. Food is not included in the ticket.
There are two ways to Frost Fest:
Early Access at 1pm, limited number of tickets, fewer lines and more beers to sample. If you love craft beer, this is the ticket for you.
General Admission at 2pm, access to all things Frost Fest.
Get tickets here
This is a rain, snow, ice or shine event; no refunds for Frost Fest. Must be 21+ with a valid ticket and ID for entry.
Frost Fest is brought to you by Barley, Hops & Water

March 15 Trail Work Day
2025-03-15 09:00 - 17:00 | AR
On Saturday March 15, the OHTA will have a trail day to address 4 problem areas that we consistently get reports on. Most of this work involves improving the tread on the trail, especially side hilling (Pulaski work).
There will be an “OHTA leader” for each of these excursions- The OHTA will provide all the tools needed for the day. Please bring work gloves, plenty of water, snacks and lunch. Each participant will also receive a special OHTA T-shirt.
For each area, we will need 6-8 volunteers. Once that is finalized, we will send you more information about the group, meeting location, and time.
For each of these areas, there will not be a lot of hiking involved, maybe about a half mile to 1 mile hike into the area that needs to be repaired.
Below are the areas on the OHT that need special help. Please click on the link of the location to sign up. More information will be sent later.
Chancel – mm 118 (side hilling, 2 tree rootballs)
Chancel/Boss Hollow – mm 121.5 (side hilling)
Richland Creek area – mm 141-142 (side hilling)
Red Bluff Road to East (Buffalo River area) – mm 190 (side hilling)

Any questions, please contact Chris Adams (ohtmaintenance@gmail.com).

Wilderness First Aid Course
2025-03-29 - 2025-03-30 | Ozark Natural Science Center at Lake Fayetteville, 599 E Lakeview Dr, Springdale, Arkansas, 72764
When: Saturday and Sunday, March 29-30, 2025
Where: Ozark Natural Science Center-Lake Fayetteville Campus
This two-day course immerses participants in essential wilderness medicine procedures, preparing individuals to take immediate action when an outdoor activity doesn’t go as planned and 911 responders are hours away. Time is split between interactive classroom sessions and hands-on field scenarios to prepare participants and help them quickly develop basic backcountry medical care skills. The course focus is on patient assessment, stabilization and emergency treatment of issues such as hypothermia and snakebites, as well as understanding when and how to attempt evacuation. Participants will emerge capable of calmly responding to a wide variety of emergency situations.
This course will be taught by Tom Burroughs, who is the head of the Washington County AR Search and Rescue team. Tom has been an emergency responder since 1990 and is an NREMT/WEMT and WildMed Instructor Trainer. Tom brings a background of many years of backcountry rescue experience and has been teaching these courses since 2006.
All participants will need to be dressed in clothing that can be stained and/or damaged, as the program is heavily hands on, and moulage will be used to promote training authenticity.
Participants will need to be prepared to be outside for many of the training hours, regardless of weather conditions, unless hazardous (storms or extreme heat or cold). Participants should bring whatever items they commonly carry on their persons in the performance of their duties, as improvisational concepts are an important aspect of this course.
All program supplies and a waterproof field guide which becomes property of the participant, provided by Ozark Safety and Rescue Educators (OSRE) as part of the program cost.
Successful completion of the entire program will result in a three year nationally recognized Wilderness First Aid Certification through Sierra Rescue International, and meets the requirements of BSA, NICA,and the American Camp Association for Wilderness First Aid Training.
Register Here

2025 OHTA Rendezvous
2025-04-25 - 2025-04-27 | Tyler Bend Campground, 170 Ranger Road, St. Joe, AR, 72675
Location: TYLER BEND CAMPGROUND on the beautiful Buffalo River
Latitude 35° 59′ 12.0001″ N – Longitude 92° 45′ 50.0000″ W
Days and Dates: Friday through Sunday, April 25 thru 27, 2025
No fee for tent only camping in the following group sites: G3, G4, G5 (no electricity)
Check in time on Friday, April 25: 1 p.m.
Check out time on Sunday, April 27: 12 p.m.
Pavilion reserved for Saturday, April 26 from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. (group shelter electric)
Saturday evening meal and the OHTA annual meeting will be held in the Pavilion
Evening meal served at or around 5:30 p.m.
Annual meeting starts at or around 7 p.m.
Chili cook-off is planned for the Saturday evening meal. If you want to try your hand at putting together a pot of goodness that will warm hearts and souls, please contact us at: brown.philip9@gmail.com. Notification deadline for being a chili cook-off participant is February 15, 2025. Pavilion where food will be served has electrical outlets, so slow cooker chili preparation is doable
Tyler Bend Campground:
Hiking trails galore
Buffalo River Trail/Ozark Highlands Trail (BRT/OHT)
Tyler Bend Trail System
Old River Trail (ORT)
RV sites (non-electric) – some sites are currently available for reservation – others available on a first-come basis. Shower and toilet facilities onsite
Lodging options nearby
Sky Hawk Ridge, St. Joe, AR
Anna’s Guest House, Gilbert, AR
Buffalo River Outfitters, St. Joe, AR
Triple D Cabin Rental, St. Joe, AR (it’s right on Hwy 65 at the intersection of Hwy 65 and Hwy 333-the road that takes you down to Sky Hawk Ridge and Anna’s Guest House)
Gilbertstore.com
Dining options nearby
Ferguson’s Store and Restaurant
Big Springs Trading Co.
Hike On Saturday Morning and Possibly Sunday Morning
Saturday morning a group of common adventurers plans to shuttle over to Gilbert and hike back to Tyler Bend—everyone’s welcome to join the hike
Sunday morning hike is yet to be determined
IMPORTANT NOTICE: If you plan to attend, please let us know as soon as possible so plans for how much food to prepare can be made. You can email us at: brown.philip9@gmail.com

OHTA West Fall 2025 Basecamp
2025-09-19 - 2025-09-21 | Mulberry Mountain, 4117 Mulberry Mountain Loop #9306, Ozark, AR, 72949, United States
The OHTA will be sponsoring four (4) work weekends during the Fall of 2025. This will enable us to take care of some problem areas along the trail in preparation for hiking season and trail runs/events that the OHT will be hosting.
All four Base Camps will be camping events—if you want to camp. Commuting each day is also an option for some. So, if you plan to camp, please bring your camping gear. The OHTA will have several sites reserved at the campgrounds at NO cost to you. Also, OHTA will provide BREAKFAST, LUNCH, and DINNER for all participants. Water, soda, and tea will be available. Bring your own adult beverages.
Hard hats, safety gear, and maintenance implements will be provided. Members and nonmembers are welcome. Please remember to bring your lawn chairs because after the workday, base camp becomes a social event filled with conversation, giveaways, and plenty of laughter while sitting around the fire with people who enjoy similar things.
We need individuals to help in many ways both in camp and on the trail. On the trail, volunteers will be needed to serve as loppers, sawyers, trimmers, and swampers (aka, sawyer helpers). Or, if you’d prefer to stay at camp and help out there, you can help with cooking, cleaning, picking up around camp, and/or with shuttling volunteers to various locations on the OHT. Whatever you choose to do, it will be very greatly appreciated!
Each day of trail work will begin with a meeting at 8:30 a.m. so volunteers can be informed of their assigned locations on the trail and what their tasks will entail.
Free camping will be available on the Thursday evening for the West, East, and North basecamps, and on Friday evening for the Norfork Lake basecamp.

OHTA West Basecamp
Friday, Saturday, Sunday – September 19, 20, 21, 2025
Mulberry Mountain Campground
4117 Mulberry Mountain Loop #9306; Ozark, Arkansas 72949
(approximately 3 miles south of the OHT’s Cherry Bend Trailhead on Highway 23)
OHTA’s area is reserved, and camping is open and free to all OHTA Maintenance Basecamp participants starting the afternoon of Thursday, September 18
Separate hot shower facilities for women and men available, and the bathrooms are nice and clean
All food will be free
Participants will be responsible for providing their own adult beverages
Sign-up link: OHTA Basecamp (West) at Mulberry Mtn

OHTA East Fall 2025 Basecamp
2025-10-03 - 2025-10-05 | Richland Creek Campground, Campground Rd, Witts Springs, AR, 72686, United States
The OHTA will be sponsoring four (4) work weekends during the Fall of 2025. This will enable us to take care of some problem areas along the trail in preparation for hiking season and trail runs/events that the OHT will be hosting.
All four Base Camps will be camping events—if you want to camp. Commuting each day is also an option for some. So, if you plan to camp, please bring your camping gear. The OHTA will have several sites reserved at the campgrounds at NO cost to you. Also, OHTA will provide BREAKFAST, LUNCH, and DINNER for all participants. Water, soda, and tea will be available. Bring your own adult beverages.
Hard hats, safety gear, and maintenance implements will be provided. Members and nonmembers are welcome. Please remember to bring your lawn chairs because after the workday, base camp becomes a social event filled with conversation, giveaways, and plenty of laughter while sitting around the fire with people who enjoy similar things.
We need individuals to help in many ways both in camp and on the trail. On the trail, volunteers will be needed to serve as loppers, sawyers, trimmers, and swampers (aka, sawyer helpers). Or, if you’d prefer to stay at camp and help out there, you can help with cooking, cleaning, picking up around camp, and/or with shuttling volunteers to various locations on the OHT. Whatever you choose to do, it will be very greatly appreciated!
Each day of trail work will begin with a meeting at 8:30 a.m. so volunteers can be informed of their assigned locations on the trail and what their tasks will entail.
Free camping will be available on the Thursday evening for the West, East, and North basecamps, and on Friday evening for the Norfork Lake basecamp.
OHTA East Basecamp
Friday, Saturday, Sunday – October 3, 4, 5, 2025
Richland Campground in Richland Creek Recreation Area (Located in Richland Creek Wilderness on the east side—accessed by Richland Creek Road)
OHTA’s area is reserved, and camping is open and free to all OHTA Maintenance Basecamp participants starting the afternoon of Thursday, October 2
The campground has vault toilets and no water hookups
One backcountry shower with hot water will be set up for all participants by East Maintenance Director, Sean Prewitt
All food will be free
Participants will be responsible for providing their own adult beverages
Sign-up link: OHTA Basecamp (East) at Richland Creek

OHTA North Fall 2025 Basecamp
2025-10-10 - 2025-10-12 | White Oak Cabins & RV, 1655 Highway 14, Fifty Six, Arkansas, 72533
The OHTA will be sponsoring four (4) work weekends during the Fall of 2025. This will enable us to take care of some problem areas along the trail in preparation for hiking season and trail runs/events that the OHT will be hosting.
All four Base Camps will be camping events—if you want to camp. Commuting each day is also an option for some. So, if you plan to camp, please bring your camping gear. The OHTA will have several sites reserved at the campgrounds at NO cost to you. Also, OHTA will provide BREAKFAST, LUNCH, and DINNER for all participants. Water, soda, and tea will be available. Bring your own adult beverages.
Hard hats, safety gear, and maintenance implements will be provided. Members and nonmembers are welcome. Please remember to bring your lawn chairs because after the workday, base camp becomes a social event filled with conversation, giveaways, and plenty of laughter while sitting around the fire with people who enjoy similar things.
We need individuals to help in many ways both in camp and on the trail. On the trail, volunteers will be needed to serve as loppers, sawyers, trimmers, and swampers (aka, sawyer helpers). Or, if you’d prefer to stay at camp and help out there, you can help with cooking, cleaning, picking up around camp, and/or with shuttling volunteers to various locations on the OHT. Whatever you choose to do, it will be very greatly appreciated!
Each day of trail work will begin with a meeting at 8:30 a.m. so volunteers can be informed of their assigned locations on the trail and what their tasks will entail.
Free camping will be available on the Thursday evening for the West, East, and North basecamps, and on Friday evening for the Norfork Lake basecamp.
OHTA North Basecamp
Friday, Saturday, Sunday – October 10, 11, 12, 2025
White Oak Cabins & RV
1655 Highway 14; Fifty Six, Arkansas 72533
5 cabins and 4 RV sites (w/electricity and water) are free and open to all OHTA Maintenance Basecamp participants starting the afternoon of Thursday, October 9
Plenty of space on the grounds for tent camping
NOTE: If you would like to put dibs on one of the cabins or plan to to use one of the sites for your RV or travel trailer, please let us know in advance at: brown.philip9@gmail.com
Separate hot shower facilities for women and men available, and the bathrooms are nice and clean
All food will be free
Participants will be responsible for providing their own adult beverages
Sign-up link: OHTA Basecamp (North) at Fifty Six, AR

OHTA Norfork Lake Fall 2025 Basecamp
2025-10-18 - 2025-10-19 | Three Oaks Resort, 117 Three Oaks Lane, Gamaliel, Arkansas, 72537
The OHTA will be sponsoring four (4) work weekends during the Fall of 2025. This will enable us to take care of some problem areas along the trail in preparation for hiking season and trail runs/events that the OHT will be hosting.
All four Base Camps will be camping events—if you want to camp. Commuting each day is also an option for some. So, if you plan to camp, please bring your camping gear. The OHTA will have several sites reserved at the campgrounds at NO cost to you. Also, OHTA will provide BREAKFAST, LUNCH, and DINNER for all participants. Water, soda, and tea will be available. Bring your own adult beverages.
Hard hats, safety gear, and maintenance implements will be provided. Members and nonmembers are welcome. Please remember to bring your lawn chairs because after the workday, base camp becomes a social event filled with conversation, giveaways, and plenty of laughter while sitting around the fire with people who enjoy similar things.
We need individuals to help in many ways both in camp and on the trail. On the trail, volunteers will be needed to serve as loppers, sawyers, trimmers, and swampers (aka, sawyer helpers). Or, if you’d prefer to stay at camp and help out there, you can help with cooking, cleaning, picking up around camp, and/or with shuttling volunteers to various locations on the OHT. Whatever you choose to do, it will be very greatly appreciated!
Each day of trail work will begin with a meeting at 8:30 a.m. so volunteers can be informed of their assigned locations on the trail and what their tasks will entail.
Free camping will be available on the Thursday evening for the West, East, and North basecamps, and on Friday evening for the Norfork Lake basecamp.
OHTA Norfork Lake Basecamp
Saturday, Sunday – October 18,19, 2025
Three Oaks Resort
117 Three Oaks Lane
Gamaliel, Arkansas 72537
Cabins 7, 8, and 9 have been reserved
Plenty of space on the grounds for tent camping
There will be toilet and shower accessibility for everyone
Camping is free and open to all OHTA Maintenance Basecamp participants starting the afternoon of Friday, October 17
All food will be free
Participants will be responsible for providing their own adult beverages
Sign-up link: OHTA Basecamp (Keystone) at Norfork

2025 Hare Mountain Hike-In
2025-11-01 - 2025-11-02 | Hare Mountain
Mark your calendar for Saturday and Sunday, November 1st and 2nd if you’re interested in joining in on the celebration of OHTA’s 44th birthday at the Hare Mountain Hike-In. Access to Hare Mountain is possible by journeying east along the OHT from East Fly Gap trailhead or by heading north from Morgan Fields trailhead. It’s a hike and a celebration you do not want to miss!
Naturally, all are welcome to join the fun, but please remember to bring all of your own camping supplies, stories and tall tales to share, and a dish for the top-of-the-mountain potluck that will be memorable and delicious! Be sure to check future editions of the OHTA Newsletter and OHTA’s social media sites because there will be more info coming as we get closer to the big event!

Matney Camp Restoration Celebration
2025-12-06 | Matney Camp
Several years ago, Matney Camp was decommissioned by the Forest Service, and since then, time, neglect, and the elements have taken their toll on what was left of the camp. As some of you know, the camp itself is accessible by a spur trail and by boat from the White River. On the OHT North map, the camp is designated by only a ‘basic camping’ symbol.

For months, Gordon King and a small group of recruits have devoted time to restoring Matney Camp, but the bulk of the effort devoted to the site came from Gordon. After all this time, the hard work everyone put into the camp has paid off—the camp is restored.
What all Matney Camp will or can be used for is yet to be determined, but three things are for sure: 1) It’s a great place for family activities, 2) it’s a nice site for bringing in the new year, and 3) Matney Camp will be the location of a Restoration Celebration on Saturday, December 6, 2025!!Here are the details:

Those wanting to hike roughly three miles from Matney Knob Trailhead (MKTH) to the camp can meet at MKTH at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, December 6, 2025.
Food, water/soft drinks, and utensils for the celebration will be brought in from the river by Gordon King —byo adult beverages.
Those not wanting to do the three-mile hike can be shuttled to the intersection of Matney Camp Spur Trail and Highway 341—the parking area near the intersection of the two is limited to four vehicles at the most.
If you want to kayak/canoe yourself and/or family/friends to the event, you are encouraged to do so—children and fur babies are certainly welcome.
If you have an instrument and want to play some music, please bring it along!
Want to bring a board game—please do!
The festivities will likely end somewhere between 2 and 3 p.m.
If you want to turn this into an overnight backpacking event, please bring along your camping gear as everyone is welcome to stay through the night.
The camp has picnic tables and an outhouse that are in very nice shape.

So we can make food and beverage plans, please send an email to OHTA@ozarkhighlandstrail.com. Be sure to include your name and the number of folks who are coming with you—their names are optional, but including them would be appreciated.

Jan. 2026 Board of Directors Meeting
2026-01-11 14:00 - 16:00 | Fossil Cove Brewing, 1946 N. Birch Ave., Fayetteville, AR, 72703, United States
Sunday, January 11, 2026, 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Fossil Cove Brewing Company
1946 North Birch Avenue
Fayetteville, Arkansas 72703
Old Tap Room (entrance is the first door on the street side of the building)
Everyone is welcome to attend, so we hope to see you there!

Spring 2026 Ozone Workday
2026-02-28 | AR
This Spring, along with the trail adopters annual maintenance on their sections, we will have a few days dedicated to taking care of a few areas along the trail. The first work day this Spring will be on Saturday February 28, 2026. The location will be around the Highway 21 area, both East and West of Ozone TH. Treadwork, building steps, getting water off of the trail, and taking care of an unadopted section are on the agenda.
There will be free camping at Bill & Donna Hignite’s cabin, located near Ozone TH. Showers, bathrooms available. Volunteers will be able to camp Friday night and Saturday night, but we will only work on the trail Saturday Feb 28. Dinner will be provided to all volunteers on Saturday evening. Bring your own breakfast and lunch on the trail. The OHTA will provide all equipment and tools needed to work on the trail. Due to the amount of work and space at the Hignite’s, this workday will be limited to 30 volunteers.
Sign Up Here
Chris Adams will be sending more specific information to everyone that signed up when we get closer to Feb 28.

2026 OHTA Rendezvous
2026-04-24 - 2026-04-26 | Tyler Bend Campground, 170 Ranger Road, St. Joe, AR, 72675
Location: Tyler Bend Campground
Friday through Sunday, April 24 thru 26, 2026
No fee for tent only camping in the following group sites: G1, G2, G3 (no electricity)
Check in time on Friday, April 24: 1 p.m.
Check out time on Sunday, April 26: 12 p.m.
Pavilion reserved for Saturday, April 25 from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. (group shelter has electricity)
Saturday evening meal and the OHTA annual meeting will be held in the Pavilion
Evening meal served at or around 5:30 p.m.
Annual meeting starts at or around 7 p.m.
OHTA members and their families and friends of all ages are welcome to join the fun and festivities! Our furry friends are welcome, as well, but remember, Buffalo National River (BNR) regulations are that they must be on a leash that is no longer than 6 feet—sorry fur babes and fur parents!
OHTA’s annual meeting will be held after Saturday evening’s meal, and the winners of the 2026 election of Board candidates will be announced.
There is no charge to attend the Rendezvous, and pitching your tent in any one of the three group camping areas reserved by OHTA is free!
Tyler Bend Campground amenities

Hiking trails galore
Buffalo River Trail/Ozark Highlands Trail (BRT/OHT)
Tyler Bend Trail System
Old River Trail (ORT)
RV sites (non-electric) – some sites are currently available for reservation – others available on a first-come basis
Shower and toilet facilities onsite

Lodging options nearby

Sky Hawk Ridge, St. Joe, AR
Anna’s Guest House, Gilbert, AR
Buffalo River Outfitters, St. Joe, AR
Triple D Cabin Rental, St. Joe, AR (it’s right on Hwy 65 at the intersection of Hwy 65 and Hwy 333–the road that takes you down to Sky Hawk Ridge and Anna’s Guest House)
Gilbertstore.com

Dining options nearby

Ferguson’s Store and Restaurant
Big Springs Trading Co.

IMPORTANT NOTICE: If your intentions are to attend, please let us know as soon as possible so plans can be made in regard to purchasing necessary food and supplies. You can email us at: OHTA@ozarkhighlandstrail.com

2026 National Trails Day Celebration
2026-06-06 | AR
National Trails Day is on Saturday, June 6, 2026, and we are planning a celebration at Redding Campground. This is an open invitation to all OHT members. Feel free to come for the day or stay overnight. There will be some folks there on Friday and staying until Sunday.
There will be a taco bar starting at 1 p.m. on Saturday, June 6th.
Water, soda and tea will be provided. Bring your own adult beverage if you are so inclined.
Plates and eating utensils will also be provided. Feel free to bring your own to reduce environmental impact.
Please RSVP by June 1 so all food and other items can be purchased prior to the event.
Send responses to:
Gordon Brown: GMAN72466@outlook.com
Yvonne Liske: bebon66@gmail.com
Once we know how many people are attending, a request may be sent out for additional items.
Location: Redding Recreation Area
Latitude: 35.68282778
Longitude: -93.78651111
Directions:
From Cass, take Arkansas 23 north to AR 215, then turn right (east) on Forest Service Road 1003 for 3 miles.

June 2026 OHTA Board Meeting
2026-06-28 14:00 - 16:00 | Fossil Cove Brewing, 1946 N. Birch Ave., Fayetteville, AR, 72703, United States
Fossil Cove Brewing Company, Old Tap Room
946 N Birch Avenue,
Fayetteville, Arkansas
Primary Agenda: Board will elect its new officers for the 2026-2027 fiscal year

August 2026 OHTA Board Meeting
2026-08-23 14:00 - 16:00 | Fossil Cove Brewing, 1946 N. Birch Ave., Fayetteville, AR, 72703, United States
The OHTA will be holding a board meeting on Aug 23, 2026 from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm at Fossil Cove Brewing.
1946 North Birch Avenue
Fayetteville, Arkansas 72703
Agenda

Fall 2026 OHTA West Basecamp
2026-09-18 - 2026-09-20 | Mulberry Mountain, 4117 Mulberry Mountain Loop #9306, Ozark, AR, 72949, United States
Will be held at Mulberry Mountain Sept. 18-20. More details will be added as they are worked out.
Sign up here

Fall 2026 OHTA East Basecamp
2026-10-02 - 2026-10-04 | AR
Will be held Oct. 2-4. More details will be added as they are worked out.

Fall 2026 OHTA North Basecamp
2026-10-09 - 2026-10-11 | White Oak Cabins & RV, 1655 Highway 14, Fifty Six, Arkansas, 72533
Will be held Oct. 9-11 at White Oak Cabins. More details will be added as they are worked out.

2026 Hare Mountain Hike-In
2026-11-07 - 2026-11-08 | Hare Mountain
The 2026 Hare Mountain Hike-In, a celebration to commemorate the 1981 birth of the Ozark Highlands Trail Association, will be held November 7-8, 2026.
Get your gear ready, gather together your family members, call all of your friends, and start deciding on a great dish you can bring for a top-o’-the-mountain potluck. You might even give some thought to some of the tall tales you could share with all the folks who will join you around the campfire near the summit of Hare Mountain for this year’s Hike-In.
If you want to be a part of 2026’s special occasion, there are multiple locations from which to start your hike. However, the spot closest to where everyone will camp on Hare Mountain is the Hare Mountain/Morgan Field Trailhead (can be located on the Ozark Highlands Trail—West map available in OHTA’s online store). From there it is a mere 1.7 mile hike to the top.
There is plenty of room to camp, but be sure to pack in all the water you will need. Come one, come all. This is a perfect opportunity to introduce someone who is new to hiking to the spectacular beauty of the Ozark mountains and the unparalleled experience of primitive camping.
