List of National Natural Landmarks in Arkansas facts for kids

Arkansas is home to some truly special natural places! These spots are called National Natural Landmarks. They are chosen because they have unique plants, animals, rocks, or landforms that are important to protect. Think of them like natural treasures!

There are five National Natural Landmarks in Arkansas. Most of them are amazing forests, and one is a giant natural spring. These places help us learn about nature and keep it safe for the future.

Arkansas's Natural Treasures

Big Lake Natural Area

A view of Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

The Big Lake Natural Area is a special forest located inside the Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge. This area was recognized as a National Natural Landmark in 1974. It is found in Mississippi County and is managed by the federal government. It's a great example of the natural beauty found in the refuge.

Lake Winona Research Natural Area

The Lake Winona Research Natural Area is a beautiful pine forest. It is located near Lake Winona (Arkansas) and is part of the huge Ouachita National Forest. This area became a National Natural Landmark in 1976. It is in Saline County and is also managed by the federal government. It's a perfect place to study how pine forests grow naturally.

Mammoth Spring

Mammoth Spring, a huge natural spring.

Mammoth Spring is an incredible natural wonder! It's the largest "first magnitude spring" in Arkansas. A first magnitude spring means it's one of the biggest springs in the world, pushing out a huge amount of water every day. This amazing spring was named a National Natural Landmark in 1972. It's located in Fulton County and is managed by the state. What's really cool is that it's connected underground to the Grand Gulf State Park in Missouri!

Roaring Branch Research Natural Area

The Roaring Branch Research Natural Area features a steep valley, also known as a ravine. Inside this ravine, you'll find a "virgin forest." This means the trees here have never been cut down by people, making it a very old and untouched forest. This area is part of the Ouachita National Forest. It was designated a National Natural Landmark in 1976. It is located in Polk County and is managed by the federal government.

White River Sugarberry Natural Area

A boardwalk trail in White River National Wildlife Refuge.

The White River Sugarberry Natural Area is another amazing forest. It's a "virgin hardwood bottomland forest," which means it's an old, untouched forest of hardwood trees (like oak and maple) that grows in low, wet areas near a river. This special forest is found within the White River National Wildlife Refuge. It became a National Natural Landmark in 1974. Located in Desha County, it is managed by the federal government.