There’s something quietly defiant about the towns tucked beneath Mount Magazine, as if they chose their distance from the interstate with intention. Here, the pace of life is calibrated by weather fronts and the flight paths of hawks. Gravel crunches underfoot. Gardens are tended more than tweets. In Belleville, a front porch is still a form of communication. Over in Magazine, the mountain—Arkansas’s tallest—doesn’t so much loom as linger, casting long shadows and longer silences.
This region isn’t about flash. It’s about presence. It’s about towns like Caulksville and Subiaco, where the roads don’t pretend to lead to fame, just to good fishing, a cool breeze, and neighbors who know your dog’s name. There’s a memory of motion here—a feeling that everything is slower not out of neglect but because slowing down is the point.
Mount Magazine, so-named for its storied elevation and military-sounding stature, offers more than altitude—it offers perspective. These ten towns remind us that seclusion isn’t always absence. Sometimes it’s intention.
10. Belleville: Countryside Calm and Open Spaces
Belleville, with a close-knit population of around 400 residents, is a haven for those seeking tranquility in the countryside. The town offers expansive open spaces, perfect for leisurely walks, bird watching, and enjoying the simplicity of rural life.
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore nearby Mount Magazine State Park, which provides hiking trails, picnic areas, and breathtaking views of Arkansas’s highest peak. Agriculture plays a significant role in the local economy, with farming being a primary industry that supports the community.
The seclusion of Belleville comes from its vast rural landscapes and minimal commercial development, allowing residents to enjoy peace and privacy. The slow-paced lifestyle and generous land parcels make Belleville an ideal retreat for anyone longing for a private sanctuary away from urban noise.
Where is Belleville?
Belleville is situated in Yell County, in west-central Arkansas, nestled amidst rolling farmlands and gentle hills. Its secluded nature is due to its location away from major highways and metropolitan areas, surrounded by the natural beauty of the countryside.
To get to Belleville, you can take Highway 10 west from Perryville or east from Booneville, enjoying a scenic drive through rural landscapes. The town’s remote setting provides a quiet environment, making it a perfect spot for those wanting to escape the busyness of city life.
9. Caulksville: Tranquility in the Heart of the Ozarks
With a population of just over 200 people, Caulksville is a quaint town that embodies the essence of small-town charm. Residents enjoy a peaceful environment with spacious properties, allowing for privacy and a connection to the natural surroundings.
The area offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, and exploring the scenic Ozark National Forest nearby. Agriculture and local businesses form the backbone of Caulksville’s economy, fostering a tight-knit community spirit.
The town’s seclusion stems from its remote location amid Arkansas’s rolling hills and lack of commercial development. Far from urban distractions, Caulksville provides a tranquil haven for those seeking a simpler, quieter way of life.
Where is Caulksville?
Located in the heart of Logan County, Caulksville sits within the picturesque landscapes of the Ozark Mountains in western Arkansas. The town’s secluded nature is enhanced by its distance from major cities and thoroughfares, nestled among forests and farmland.
To reach Caulksville, travelers can take Highway 22 west from Dardanelle or east from Fort Smith, immersing themselves in the scenic rural drive. The town’s remote setting and serene environment make it an ideal retreat for those looking to escape the hustle of city living.
8. Magazine: A Sleepy Hamlet Near the Peak
Magazine, home to approximately 800 residents, is a tranquil town nestled near the base of Mount Magazine, the highest point in Arkansas. The town offers easy access to Mount Magazine State Park, where visitors can engage in hiking, rock climbing, and wildlife observation amidst breathtaking vistas.
Local industries include agriculture and small businesses that cater to outdoor enthusiasts and the community’s needs. The seclusion of Magazine is due to its location amidst expansive natural landscapes and a deliberate preservation of its rural character.
With minimal commercial development, the town provides a peaceful atmosphere where open spaces and the beauty of nature take center stage.
Where is Magazine?
Magazine is located in Logan County in western Arkansas, nestled in the shadow of Mount Magazine. The town’s remote setting is accentuated by its proximity to the mountain and surrounding forests, away from the state’s major urban centers.
To get to Magazine, travelers can take Highway 10, which winds through the scenic countryside, offering glimpses of rural life and natural beauty. The town’s seclusion and serene environment make it a perfect spot for those seeking refuge from the busyness of modern life.
7. Ratcliff: Peaceful Living in a Tiny Town
Ratcliff is a tiny town with a population of around 200 residents, offering a peaceful lifestyle nestled amidst Arkansas’s natural beauty. The town is adjacent to Cove Lake Recreation Area, where fishing, camping, and picnicking are popular activities among locals and visitors.
The economy is primarily supported by agriculture and small-scale local businesses, reinforcing the town’s tight-knit community feel. Ratcliff’s seclusion is characterized by its small size, limited population, and the surrounding forests that provide a natural barrier from the outside world.
Where is Ratcliff?
Situated in Logan County along Highway 22, Ratcliff lies in western Arkansas, enveloped by the serene landscapes of the Ozark National Forest. Its secluded nature is due to its minimal population and location away from major urban centers, providing a quiet retreat in the countryside.
To reach Ratcliff, travelers can drive west from Dardanelle or east from Fort Smith along Highway 22, enjoying the scenic views of rolling hills and forests. The town’s tranquil setting and easy access to natural attractions make it an ideal escape for those seeking peace and simplicity.
6. New Blaine: Lakeside Solitude and Scenic Beauty
New Blaine is a charming lakeside community offering serene living along the shores of Lake Dardanelle. Residents and visitors can enjoy various water activities such as fishing, boating, and kayaking, with the backdrop of spectacular sunsets over the water.
The area is characterized by spacious properties and a peaceful atmosphere, attracting those who appreciate nature and outdoor recreation. With limited commercial establishments, the economy revolves around local businesses and tourism related to the lake.
New Blaine’s seclusion comes from its remote location, untouched landscapes, and the tranquility provided by the adjacent lake. It’s a perfect getaway for those seeking a quiet retreat surrounded by natural beauty.
Where is New Blaine?
Located in Logan County, New Blaine sits on the western edge of Lake Dardanelle in west-central Arkansas. The community’s isolated feel is enhanced by its position away from major highways and cities, nestled between the water and rolling hills.
Visitors can reach New Blaine by taking Highway 22 and then local roads that wind through scenic countryside to the lakeshore. The town’s remote location and lakeside setting offer a peaceful environment, making it a hidden gem for those looking to escape into nature.
5. Subiaco: Monastic Serenity in Rural Arkansas
Subiaco, with a population of approximately 500 residents, is known for its rich cultural heritage anchored by the historic Subiaco Abbey and Academy. The town offers a serene environment with opportunities for reflection at the Benedictine monastery, as well as outdoor activities in the surrounding rural landscapes.
Agriculture is a significant part of the local economy, contributing to the town’s pastoral charm and community-focused lifestyle. Subiaco’s seclusion is due to its remote setting and the expansive green fields that stretch in all directions, creating a peaceful atmosphere.
The combination of spiritual heritage and rural simplicity makes Subiaco a unique and tranquil place to live or visit.
Where is Subiaco?
Situated in Logan County, Subiaco lies in the Arkansas River Valley, surrounded by farmland and gentle rolling hills. The town’s secluded nature comes from its distance from larger cities and the serene setting provided by the monastery and rural environment.
To reach Subiaco, travelers can take Highway 22 west from Dardanelle, enjoying the scenic drive through the countryside. The town’s isolation and cultural significance offer a quiet retreat for those seeking peace, contemplation, and a slower pace of life.
4. Corley: A Forested Haven Off the Beaten Path
Corley is a secluded community nestled within the dense forests of the Mount Magazine region. The area is ideal for nature enthusiasts who enjoy hiking, bird watching, and immersing themselves in the tranquility of the woods.
With few residents and minimal development, Corley offers expansive natural surroundings and a true sense of seclusion. The lack of industry in the area underscores its untouched appeal, making it perfect for those wanting to escape modern distractions.
Corley’s isolation amid the woodlands provides a peaceful environment where one can connect deeply with nature.
Where is Corley?
Located in Logan County near Mount Magazine State Park, Corley is tucked away in the rugged terrain of western Arkansas. The community’s remote location is accentuated by its position off major roads, accessible via winding forest routes.
To reach Corley, visitors can navigate through Highway 309, also known as the Mount Magazine Scenic Byway, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The area’s seclusion and dense forests make it a haven for those seeking solitude away from the bustle of city life.
3. Havana: Rustic Charm in Nature’s Embrace
With a population of around 375 residents, Havana is a quaint town that offers rustic charm nestled in the foothills of the Ouachita Mountains. The town provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, and exploring nearby Petit Jean River and Blue Mountain Lake.
Local industries include agriculture and forestry, contributing to the town’s authentic rural atmosphere. Havana’s seclusion is highlighted by its vast open spaces, expansive lots, and minimal urban development.
The tranquil environment and close proximity to nature make Havana an inviting place for those desiring a peaceful retreat.
Where is Havana?
Havana is located in Yell County, along Highway 10 in west-central Arkansas. The town’s remote feel is due to its distance from major cities and the surrounding natural landscapes that buffer it from the outside world.
Travelers can reach Havana by driving west from Ola or east from Booneville along Highway 10, enjoying views of the countryside and mountains. The secluded setting and serene atmosphere make Havana a hidden treasure for those looking to immerse themselves in rural living.
2. Waveland: Quiet Living Amidst Rolling Hills
Waveland is a peaceful community offering a quiet lifestyle amidst Arkansas’s rolling hills and untouched forests. Residents enjoy panoramic vistas from hilltops, and the area is perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, horseback riding, and wildlife observation.
The local economy is primarily based on agriculture and small family-owned businesses, reinforcing the tight-knit community feel. Waveland’s seclusion is marked by its location far from major roads and urban developments, providing a serene environment away from the rush of modern life.
The combination of natural beauty and tranquility makes Waveland an ideal spot for those seeking a secluded countryside retreat.
Where is Waveland?
Located in Yell County, Waveland lies to the south of Blue Mountain Lake, nestled in the scenic landscapes of west-central Arkansas. Its remote location is enhanced by the surrounding forests and the lack of major thoroughfares, making it a quiet hideaway.
To reach Waveland, visitors can take Highway 10 and then venture onto local roads that wind through the picturesque countryside. The town’s secluded setting and captivating views offer a genuine escape into nature’s embrace.
1. Blue Mountain: A Hidden Lakeside Retreat
Blue Mountain is a hidden gem located near the base of Mount Magazine, offering serene lakeside living with breathtaking views. The community is adjacent to Blue Mountain Lake, a haven for fishing, boating, and bird watching, with frequent sightings of eagles and other wildlife.
The area is sparsely populated, providing residents with privacy and a deep sense of tranquility. Local activities revolve around outdoor recreation, and the absence of significant industry enhances the seclusion and natural appeal.
Blue Mountain’s secluded charm comes from its remote location, enveloped by the lake and forests, making it a perfect retreat for nature lovers and those seeking solace away from urban life.
Where is Blue Mountain?
Blue Mountain is situated in Logan County, at the edge of Blue Mountain Lake in western Arkansas. The town’s isolation is due to its position away from major cities and highways, surrounded by water and woodlands.
Access to Blue Mountain is typically via Highway 10 or Highway 309, leading visitors through scenic routes filled with natural beauty. The combination of lakeside serenity and proximity to Mount Magazine makes Blue Mountain a secluded paradise for those wishing to escape the pressures of everyday life.
