If you’re yearning for a peaceful escape tucked away in the heart of nature, Southern Arkansas offers some of the most secluded towns perfect for a quiet retreat or even a permanent move.
I love how these hidden gems provide a tranquil atmosphere, surrounded by forests, rivers, and rolling hills, far from the hustle and bustle of city life. Each town has its unique charm and character, offering residents and visitors alike a chance to slow down and enjoy simple pleasures.
From tiny hamlets with rich histories to communities nestled at the foot of the Ouachita Mountains, these places promise solitude and serenity. Join me as we count down ten of the most secluded towns in Southern Arkansas that you might not have heard of but are definitely worth exploring.
10. Hermitage – A Secluded Spot in Bradley County
Hermitage, with a population of around 400 people, is a peaceful rural town that epitomizes small-town charm. I find that one of the joys of Hermitage is exploring the local natural surroundings, such as the nearby Saline River, which offers opportunities for fishing and canoeing.
Agriculture is a mainstay here, particularly tomato farming, and the town celebrates this with the annual Hermitage Tomato Festival, a delightful community event.
What makes Hermitage truly secluded is its low population density and abundance of natural surroundings, providing residents with ample privacy and a quiet living experience.
The town has minimal commercial development, which adds to its tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal place for those seeking a slower pace of life. With spacious properties and friendly neighbors, Hermitage feels like a hidden sanctuary tucked away in Southern Arkansas.
Where is Hermitage?
Located in Bradley County, Hermitage sits in the southeastern part of Arkansas, about 10 miles north of the Louisiana border. Its seclusion is enhanced by the surrounding dense forests and agricultural lands that create a natural buffer from larger cities and busy highways.
To get there, I usually take Highway 63, which connects Hermitage to nearby towns like Warren and Pine Bluff, yet the roads are quiet and traffic is minimal. The town’s remote location makes it a perfect getaway for those looking to immerse themselves in nature and enjoy the peaceful countryside.
9. Stamps – Quiet Living Among Lakes and Forests
Stamps, home to approximately 1,600 residents, is a quaint town that offers a serene lifestyle amidst Southern Arkansas’s natural beauty. One of my favorite spots here is Lake June, a quiet lake perfect for fishing and picnicking, surrounded by lush forests teeming with wildlife.
The town doesn’t have heavy industry; instead, it thrives on agriculture and small businesses, contributing to its laid-back atmosphere. What sets Stamps apart is its minimal traffic and development, with wide-open spaces and a close-knit community that values peace and quiet.
The abundance of tree-lined streets and the absence of urban noise make it an ideal spot for those seeking solitude. I appreciate how the town’s setting among lakes and forests provides countless opportunities for outdoor activities while maintaining a quiet, secluded feel.
Where is Stamps?
Nestled in Lafayette County, Stamps is situated in the southwestern corner of Arkansas, near the Louisiana border. The town’s seclusion comes from its distance from major highways and urban centers, enveloped by expansive forests and rural landscapes.
To reach Stamps, I usually take State Highway 53 or 82, which wind through picturesque countryside and small communities. The journey itself feels like a retreat, and upon arrival, the tranquil environment of Stamps makes it well worth the trip.
8. Reader – Unincorporated Haven of Serenity
Reader is an unincorporated community with a population of around 70 people, straddling the counties of Nevada and Ouachita. This tiny haven offers a tranquil setting away from commercial zones, making it perfect for those who crave solitude.
I love the spaciousness here, with large lot sizes that provide plenty of room for privacy and outdoor activities like gardening or simply enjoying the peace and quiet. With no major industries, life in Reader revolves around family, community, and the natural surroundings.
It’s this lack of commercial development and minimal population that makes Reader exceptionally secluded. The area is rich with forests and wildlife, providing a serene backdrop for those who wish to live close to nature.
Where is Reader?
Reader is located in Southern Arkansas, approximately halfway between the towns of Prescott and Camden. Its seclusion is due in part to its position off the beaten path, accessible via State Highway 24 but with limited through traffic.
The surrounding dense woodlands and absence of major roadways contribute to its quiet atmosphere. Getting to Reader feels like stepping back in time, and I find the journey through the winding rural roads enhances the sense of seclusion that awaits.
7. Lockesburg – Small Town with Ample Space
Lockesburg, with a population hovering around 700, is a charming town in Sevier County that offers an abundance of wide-open spaces and a peaceful environment. The town is home to the Lockesburg City Park, where I often enjoy picnics under the shade of mature trees and take leisurely walks along the trails.
Timber and agriculture are primary industries here, which blend seamlessly into the town’s landscape. Its low housing density and expansive properties make Lockesburg ideal for residents seeking a private and tranquil setting.
The absence of crowded streets and noise pollution provides a serene backdrop for daily life. I appreciate how the community emphasizes a relaxed lifestyle, free from the distractions of larger towns.
Where is Lockesburg?
Situated in the southwestern part of Arkansas, Lockesburg lies at the intersection of Highways 71 and 371. Its remote location, nestled among rolling hills and forests, contributes to its sense of seclusion.
The town is about 15 miles east of De Queen and is surrounded by rural landscapes that stretch for miles. Traveling to Lockesburg involves scenic drives through the countryside, which I find both peaceful and rejuvenating.
6. Wickes – Seclusion at the Foot of the Ouachita Mountains
Wickes is a small town of about 750 people, located in Polk County near the base of the Ouachita Mountains. Outdoor enthusiasts like me are drawn to its proximity to natural attractions like the Cossatot River State Park, which offers excellent hiking, kayaking, and fishing opportunities.
The main industries in Wickes include timber and agriculture, reflecting the town’s deep connection to its natural surroundings. Wickes’s seclusion is enhanced by the natural barriers provided by the Ouachita Mountains, which add to its charm and sense of escape from urban centers.
The town has minimal commercial development, and the surrounding wilderness creates a peaceful ambiance. I find that the combination of mountain views and quiet living makes Wickes a perfect spot for those looking to disconnect from the hustle and bustle.
Where is Wickes?
Wickes is located in the western part of Arkansas, near the border with Oklahoma. Its secluded nature comes from being nestled at the base of the Ouachita Mountains, with dense forests and rugged terrain surrounding the town.
Access is primarily via U.S. Highway 71, but the area remains free from heavy traffic and congestion. Getting to Wickes involves traversing winding roads through the mountains, which I always find to be a beautiful and calming journey.
5. Wilton – Peaceful Community Amidst Rolling Hills
Wilton is a small town in Little River County with a population of around 350 residents. The town offers a peaceful community setting, with large properties that provide privacy and space. In Wilton, I enjoy the scenic views of rolling hills and forests that surround the town, making it a picturesque place to live or visit.
The main industries here are agriculture and forestry, contributing to the town’s rural character. Wilton’s seclusion comes from its remote location and low population density, ensuring a slow-paced lifestyle. The quiet streets and friendly locals create a welcoming environment that feels miles away from the stresses of city life.
Where is Wilton?
Wilton is situated in the southwestern part of Arkansas, along U.S. Highway 71 between the towns of Ashdown and Texarkana. Its secluded nature is due to the surrounding rural landscapes and minimal commercial development in the area.
To reach Wilton, I typically drive through stretches of scenic countryside with little traffic and an abundance of natural beauty. The town’s location away from major urban centers makes it a hidden gem for those seeking tranquility.
4. Emmet – Tranquil Living Near the Little Missouri River
Emmet, with a population of about 500 people, is located in Nevada County and offers a secluded environment ideal for nature enthusiasts like me. The town is close to the Little Missouri River, providing opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and enjoying the river’s serene beauty.
Emmet doesn’t have significant industries; instead, it thrives on small businesses and agriculture, which adds to its quiet, small-town feel. What makes Emmet particularly secluded is its location away from major highways and cities, nestled among rolling hills and forests.
The absence of heavy traffic and commercial noise means residents can enjoy the sounds of nature and a peaceful atmosphere. I find that Emmet’s charm lies in its simplicity and the easy access to outdoor activities.
Where is Emmet?
Emmet is located in Southern Arkansas, about 15 miles north of Hope, accessible via U.S. Highway 67. Its seclusion is enhanced by its rural setting and limited development in the surrounding areas.
Getting to Emmet involves traveling through quiet, scenic roads with minimal traffic, which adds to the sense of tranquility upon arrival. The town’s proximity to the Little Missouri River also places it away from bustling urban centers, making it a perfect spot for a quiet escape.
3. Buckner – Quiet Retreat in Lafayette County
Buckner is a small town with a population of just around 275 people, situated in Lafayette County. The town offers serene living with spacious lots and is surrounded by natural landscapes, making it ideal for those looking to escape the noise of city life.
There isn’t much industry in Buckner, which contributes to its peaceful and unhurried atmosphere. The lack of commercial distractions allows residents to focus on community, family, and enjoying the simplicity of rural life.
What makes Buckner particularly secluded is its low population and the absence of through-traffic, ensuring a quiet environment. I enjoy how the town’s setting provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities like bird watching and leisurely walks.
Where is Buckner?
Buckner is located in Southern Arkansas, roughly 20 miles southwest of Magnolia, accessible via U.S. Highway 82 and State Highway 53. The town’s seclusion is due to its remote location amid vast agricultural lands and forests, far from major cities and highways.
To get to Buckner, I drive through miles of peaceful countryside, with the journey itself being a relaxing experience. The town’s isolation makes it a perfect retreat for those seeking solitude and a strong sense of community.
2. Ozan – Historic Hamlet with Rural Charm
Ozan is a small town in Hempstead County with a population of about 85 residents. Rich in history, Ozan offers a glimpse into the rural charm of Southern Arkansas. I enjoy exploring the historic sites around the town, including old churches and cemeteries that tell stories of the area’s past.
The town is characterized by expansive farmlands, and agriculture remains a central aspect of life here. What makes Ozan secluded is its peaceful atmosphere, far removed from city life and surrounded by open fields and forests.
The minimal population and the vastness of the surrounding landscape provide residents with privacy and a strong connection to nature. I find that Ozan’s simplicity and tranquility are its most appealing features.
Where is Ozan?
Located in Southwest Arkansas, Ozan is about 10 miles northeast of Hope, accessible via U.S. Highway 278 and State Highway 24. Its seclusion is heightened by the surrounding rural areas and the lack of major commercial development.
Getting to Ozan involves traveling through stretches of farmland and woodland, which I find both peaceful and scenic. The town’s remote location makes it an ideal spot for those looking to escape the bustle and immerse themselves in a quiet, rural setting.
1. Cale – A Hidden Gem Surrounded by Forests
Cale is a tiny unincorporated community in Nevada County with a population of around 75 people, truly embodying the essence of seclusion. Enveloped by dense woodlands, Cale offers an ultimate escape from urban bustle, with large acreages that provide ample privacy.
I love how the town’s remote setting allows for activities like hiking, wildlife watching, and enjoying the serenity of the forest. There are no major industries in Cale; the community is primarily residential, which adds to its quiet charm.
The seclusion is enhanced by the absence of commercial development and minimal traffic, making it a perfect place for those seeking solitude. Cale’s natural surroundings and peaceful atmosphere create a haven for anyone looking to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature.
Where is Cale?
Cale is located in Southern Arkansas, about 20 miles southeast of Prescott, accessible via State Highway 200. The town’s seclusion comes from being surrounded by dense forests and being far removed from major roads and urban centers.
To reach Cale, I usually drive along quiet country roads that wind through miles of untouched woodland. The journey to Cale feels like an adventure into the wilderness, and the tranquil environment upon arrival makes it an idyllic spot for a secluded retreat.
