Hogscald Hollow is one of the most beautiful places on Beaver Lake in northwest Arkansas. You can explore the cove either by boat or by paddleboard.
We rented blow up paddle boards in nearby Eureka Springs from a company called Float Eureka. They were super nice and easy to work with and nice and I definitely recommend them.
And, no, they aren’t sponsoring this post.
Our paddleboards were blow up so there was no problem fitting them in our vehicle for the drive from their store to Hogscald Hollow.
Check out Float Eureka here if you need to rent paddleboards.
Hogscald Hollow on Beaver Lake
Hogscald Hollow is basically a beautiful, somewhat secluded cove on the eastern shore of Beaver Lake.
It is located about 10 miles from the artsy and fascinating town of Eureka Springs.
This cove is framed by jagged cliffs, weathered bluffs, a wooded shoreline and, depending on the season, waterfalls!
It is an incredibly beautiful swimming hole and paddling spot.
How to Get to Hogscald Hollow (Driving Directions)
- From Eureka Springs you will head south on Highway 23 for about 7 miles.
- Turn right onto Buck Mountain Road (County Road 108), drive about 1.5 miles.
- Then turn left at the fork onto Hogscald Road (County Road 148/56).
- You’ll cross a flat rock slab in the road, perhaps with water flowing over it if the waterfall is flowing, that’s a good sign you’re getting close.
You will be driving a few miles down a gravel road which can be rough in spots especially after we have had some rain. Be careful and take your time!
You should also expect a steep incline down to where there is space to park on the side of the road. During wet weather this has potential for a non 4 wheel drive vehicle to fine it difficult to get back up.
There’s no formal parking area. You will simply be parking along side the dirt county road where there is space.
We were lucky and found a good spot to park. In fact, the day we went we were the first ones to arrive by car. By the time we left there were cars parked all along the road.
So, do be aware that you might have to carry your board some distance to get to the water. I would suggest arriving early to get a spot especially if you are there on a holiday or on a pretty weekend.
We totally thought that the destination was worth the journey!
NOTE: In addition to having no formal parking lot you need to know that at this access point there are also no restrooms or running water!
The Big Clifty Option to Access Hogscald Hollow
If you are worried about the road to the Hogscald Hollow access point you actually have another option. Many people start at Big Clifty Park and then paddle over to Hogscald Hollow.
I haven’t come in this way myself but many people love Big Clifty Park!
Here is some more information about nearby Eureka Springs!
Beauty in the Hollow
Once you launch your board into the gorgeous waters of Beaver Lake you will paddle to the left and in just a short while you will arrive at Hogscald Hollow.
Hogscald Hollow is basically an oasis complete with gorgeous green water and even a waterfall. The waterfall at Hogscald Hollow is called Lover’s Leap.
But no leaping!
The cliff is very high and at times when the water is low the boulders below are exposed.
When the lake water levels are high enough you can even paddle underneath and behind the waterfall.
The waterfall is seasonal so you may or may not catch it flowing well. However, don’t be disappointed, this cove is gorgeous and worth a visit at all times of year.
I want to mention that you shouldn’t expect to be alone. There are often boats and other paddleboarders coming in and out of the cove.
In other words, Hogscald Hollow is NOT a “hidden gem!” However, if you catch it just right you can feel as if you are pretty remote.
Early on weekdays are best if you are looking for solitude while you paddle!
Where Did the Name Come From?
Of course, I had to figure out where the name Hogscald came from!
This is what I learned:
The hollow is in Carroll County in Arkansas. There were many natural springs in the area – like those in nearby Eureka Springs – as well as craggy and steep canyons.
Hogscald Creek ran through a beautiful canyon and erosion from the creek created holes in the smooth rocks – basically like big bathtubs. They averaged 4 – 5 feet deep and 6 feet wide.
When it came time in the fall to catch and slaughter the wild hogs (razorbacks!) that roamed the area the settlers who lived in the hollow would divert water into these holes and then place hot stones until the water was scalding hot.
The hogs would be placed in the scalding water, this made it easier to remove the hair from their skin.
So, there you go…Hogscald.
We were told by a long-time resident of Eureka Springs that before Hogscald became known to visitors/outsiders that it was used by locals as a “clothing optional” swimming hole.
Everyone had bathing suits on the day we visited!
I highly recommend checking out this gorgeous place in the Ozark Mountains on Beaver Lake!
Here are some more beautiful lakes in Arkansas to explore!
Thanks for stopping by!
