White Rock Region
Region Leader: Charlie Vaughn​
479-650-4302

Tucked deep into the Boston Mountains of northwest Arkansas, the White Rock area of the Ozark National Forest is a rugged and wild expanse of natural beauty and backcountry heritage. Known for its sweeping vistas, rocky bluffs, dense hardwood forests, and remote trail systems, White Rock has long been a destination for adventurers, conservationists, and solitude seekers alike.

This region takes its name from White Rock Mountain, one of the highest points in the Ozarks, standing at over 2,300 feet. The mountain’s signature pale limestone bluffs offer panoramic views across the forested valleys, especially breathtaking in the fall.

The land around White Rock has a deep cultural and ecological legacy:

•  Originally inhabited by Osage and Quapaw peoples, the area later became home to settlers who lived off the land through small-scale farming, hunting, and logging.
• In the early 20th century, the land was incorporated into the Ozark National Forest, which was created in 1908 to preserve the integrity of the Ozark Highlands.
• The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) left a lasting impact in the 1930s by building trails, fire towers, and stone structures that still exist today.

Today, White Rock remains a cherished corner of Arkansas public land, offering:

•  Primitive camping and backcountry experiences
• Multi-use trail systems for horseback riders, hikers, and mountain bikers
• Clear mountain creeks, wildlife corridors, and remote ridgelines
• Designated Wildlife Management Areas that balance recreation and conservation

BCHNWA Contributions in the White Rock Region
The Back Country Horsemen of Northwest Arkansas (BCHNWA) have played a key role in keeping White Rock accessible, sustainable, and safe for all trail users—particularly equestrians. Some of our notable contributions:

Certified Sawyer Support
With several USFS-certified sawyers in their ranks, BCHNWA is able to respond quickly to major trail blockages caused by storms or downed timber—removing hazards safely and in compliance with federal forest protocols.

Wilderness Pack-In Events
In 2025, BCHNWA organized its first pack-in and overnight camping trip into the White Rock wilderness. Participants carried in gear by horseback and experienced true backcountry camping under the stars—highlighting the group’s commitment to self-reliance, tradition, and public land stewardship.

​Education & Advocacy
Through signage, social media, and public engagement, BCHNWA promotes responsible trail use, Leave No Trace principles, and safety for all trail users. They work closely with U.S. Forest Service partners to advocate for continued equestrian access in the White Rock area.

Looking Ahead
BCHNWA remains committed to preserving the integrity of White Rock’s trail systems while encouraging others to discover and respect this special part of the Ozarks. Their efforts ensure that future generations of riders and backcountry enthusiasts can continue to explore White Rock’s breathtaking beauty on horseback—just as those before them did.

Together, the White Rock area and BCHNWA reflect what’s possible when tradition, stewardship, and a love for wild places come together.
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