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The Oark General Store is a legendary Arkansas destination that began taking care of local customers in 1890. So often, when you pass a parking lot full of motorcycles and family vans, you know it’s an important place to stop. As visitors often say, “you’ve gotta be going there to get there.” But it’s always worth the drive.
During October, nature paints a scene that draws many Arkansans and out-of-state visitors migrating north along some of the Natural State’s scenic byways to see the beautiful changing colors. Fall will bring a stunning display if this spring indicated the reaction plants had to the long winter frost.
In 1890, a need arose among local Oark (yes, the “z” is missing on purpose) citizens for supplies and groceries in the highly secluded area of north Johnson county. And as they say, the rest is history. As a matter of fact, the Oark General Store has been open continuously since 1890, holding the title of the oldest continuously-run store in Arkansas.
While many include Oark General Store on their day searching for changing leaves, it’s a destination on its own and or a stop while taking in other regional excursions.
- Flea market routes
- Buffalo National River and Elk watching
- The Mulberry River – a National Scenic and Wild river
- Wolf Pen Recreational Area
- Trans American Trail – a gravel backroads trail that requires gravel bikes, motorsport bikes or four-wheel drive vehicles
- Ozark Highlands Trail (hiking)
- Ozark National Forest
Over time, the regular visitors have shifted from local supply seekers to off-road adventurers, and the Oark General Store has adapted. Today fewer groceries are sold on the shelves, and more restaurant diners show up for daily specials and famous hamburgers made with fresh, quality ingredients.
In addition to old-fashioned burgers, hand-cut fries, generous portions, and cat-head biscuits, pie is a great reason to make the drive. If there is anything Arkansans love, it’s pie. The official pie of Arkansas is possum pie, and Oark is a perfect place to get a bite, but they also regularly have Oreo, pecan, coconut cream, blueberry, and buttermilk.
Motorcyclists and all-terrain vehicle drivers will find a welcoming home with a stop at the Oark General Store. Stop in for a few last-minute items if you are camping in the area. Or, sit a spell and enjoy the cool breeze and bronze glow of perfect fall days in the Ozark Mountains.
If you are planning a trip to the area, note their hours are Wednesday – Monday – 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. They are closed on Tuesdays. Learn more about the story of current owners Brian and Reagen Eisele and follow them on Facebook for updates and new menu items.
Other ways to experience Northwest Arkansas fall fun:
- Buffalo National River
- Ozark Cafe | Jasper
- Glory Hole Waterfall | Ponca
- Shiloh Museum of Ozark History | Springdale
- Van Winkle Hollow at Hobbs State Park | Rogers
- Tanyard Creek Nature Trail | Bella Vista
- War Eagle Mill | Rogers
- Fall Daytrips in NWA
- Viewing Fall Foliage around NWA
- Boston Mountain Scenic Loop
- Scenic Byways
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[…] Oark General Store | Oark – the oldest continually run store in Arkansas, a roadside dive with the best breakfast, burgers, and pie […]
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