Searcy County, Arkansas

Nestled in the rugged heart of the Ozark Mountains in north-central Arkansas, Searcy County was established on December 13, 1838. It is named after Richard Searcy, a pioneer of the Arkansas Territory.

The population of Searcy County is 7,836 (2024 Census). The low population density (12 people per square mile) directly reflects the rural region complete with wide open spaces and protected land. Residents enjoy a tight-knit, stable community.

The economy remains grounded in timber, agriculture, outdoor tourism, and local businesses augmented by over 1.6 million annual river visits.

With the Ozark National Forrest and the Buffalo National River, the county is the ultimate playground for nature lovers, mountain bikers, motorcyclists, and outdoor enthusiasts of all types.

Whether you're paddling the Buffalo River, chasing waterfalls, savoring chocolate rolls, or relaxing under a star‑filled sky, this corner of the Ozarks offers something deeply meaningful and timeless all year round.

Small Towns, Big Adventures

Marshall serves as the “Front Door of the Buffalo National River” and is where Buffalo River Airport (4A5) is located. Home to just over 1,300 residents, this charming town anchors a vibrant community rich in tourism and cultural heritage.

  • The iconic Searcy County Courthouse, built in 1889 from native sandstone and now on the National Register of Historic Places, offers a picturesque glimpse into the county’s legal and architectural past.

  • Stop by the Buffalo County Jail Museum to learn the unique history of the area.

  • It also is the home to the only year-round drive-in theater in Arkansas, the Kenda Drive-In – which hosts movies, vintage car nights and live music. This is also where the place to-go for essential amenities such as groceries, gas, and a variety of places to eat.

Gilbert is celebrated as the “Coolest Town in Arkansas,” while Silver Hill is home to the national park’s Tyler Bend Visitors Center. Leslie has a charming, picturesque downtown complete with some local shops. Pindall, St. Joe, and Witts Springs offer scenic access to the Buffalo River, waterfalls, forest, and trails.

The region has unique events like Searcy County Fair & Rodeo, Buffalo River Days, Hillbilly Daze, and the Chocolate Roll Festival™—in which Marshall is known as the “Chocolate Roll Capital of the World™”

Natural Beauty & Outdoor Oasis

Buffalo National River, the country’s first national river, flows through the county—making it a premier destination for canoeing, kayaking, hiking, fishing, camping, and wildlife watching.

The Ozark‑forested terrain includes more than 30 waterfalls and access points like East and West Maumee Falls, Richland Creek Wilderness, and Hurricane River Cave. Stop by the Richland Waterfalls Welcome Center in Witts Springs to learn more to map your waterfall journey.

Wildlife thrives in Searcy County—visitors and residents may encounter elk, black bears, bald eagles, and an abundance of smallmouth bass in the region’s waterways.