Fairview Campground and Historic CCC Nursery Site offer campers a unique combination of serene natural beauty and rich history. Located in the heart of the Ozark National Forest, this small campground provides a quiet escape into the wilderness. For campers who enjoy simple, rustic experiences, Fairview is the perfect spot, especially since the Ozark Highlands Trail (OHT) passes directly through the campground.
With the OHT providing access to some of the region’s most scenic spots, the campground serves as an excellent base for day hikes and exploration. Nearby attractions like Native American Falls, Hurricane Creek Wilderness, and the Ben Hur Trailhead make this area a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re seeking peaceful trails or dramatic waterfalls, the area surrounding Fairview is packed with adventure.
However, it’s not just the natural beauty that makes this area special—there’s a rich history rooted in conservation efforts, thanks to the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC).
The Civilian Conservation Corps Legacy: Fairview’s Historic Nursery Site
Fairview Campground sits on a site once home to a significant CCC operation. The Civilian Conservation Corps, a New Deal program established during the Great Depression, had a profound impact on the region. One of their notable contributions was the creation of the Fairview Nursery, which played a critical role in reforesting the Ozark Mountains after overzealous logging practices by early settlers left much of the land barren.
The nursery was organized on February 12, 1939, for CCC Company #746 (Project #F-30) and produced countless seedlings to replant the mountains. While challenges in securing a reliable water source led to the eventual relocation of the nursery to Arkansas Tech University in Russellville, Fairview’s nursery was crucial to the early reforestation efforts of the Ozarks. The foundations of the nursery’s structures still remain at the site, offering a glimpse into the area’s conservation history. Visitors to the campground can see remnants like the old vehicle maintenance rack, tiered plant table areas, and large foundations that were once dormitories for the CCC workers.
Across Highway 7 from the campground is the site of the former Fairview fire tower, also once manned by CCC members. These remnants serve as a reminder of the hard work and dedication that went into preserving and restoring the natural beauty of the Ozarks.
Pedestal Rocks Recreation Area: A Must-See Nearby Hike
The nearby Pedestal Rocks Recreation Area is one of the highlights of staying at Fairview. The trail features unique rock formations—often described as “pedestals” due to their tall, column-like shapes—carved by thousands of years of natural erosion. The photo you see above captures one of these breathtaking rock formations, perched dramatically on the edge of a cliff with sweeping views of the surrounding forest. It’s a moderate hike that rewards visitors with a variety of scenic overlooks and fascinating geology, making it a favorite spot for nature photographers and casual hikers alike.
While Pedestal Rocks is a fantastic place to explore, it’s only the beginning of what this area offers.
Other Nearby Points of Interest
Beyond Pedestal Rocks, there are several other nearby attractions worth exploring. One such destination is Kings Bluff, just a short hike from Pedestal Rocks. This bluff is known for its towering cliffs and stunning views, as well as its waterfall, which flows beautifully during wetter seasons.
Another option is Richland Creek Wilderness, located a bit farther but worth the journey for those who enjoy backcountry hiking and pristine wilderness. Richland Creek is an excellent place for waterfall enthusiasts, with multiple waterfalls to discover deep within the forest. Though more rugged, this area is perfect for adventurers looking for a challenging and rewarding hike.
The Alum Cove Natural Bridge is another notable spot nearby. This large sandstone bridge was naturally formed and provides an impressive sight. The area also features a short, scenic trail that loops under the bridge and through the surrounding forest.
For those eager to hit the trails, the Ozark Highlands Trail (OHT) runs directly through the campground, offering miles of scenic hiking. The trail connects with several breathtaking points of interest, making it an ideal route for day trips or extended backpacking journeys.
- Native American Falls: Just a short trek from the campground, these falls are a serene, hidden gem. Surrounded by the quiet of the forest, they provide a tranquil spot to reflect or simply enjoy the beauty of the natural world.
- Hurricane Creek Wilderness: Located nearby, this wilderness area offers rugged trails, crystal-clear streams, and the kind of solitude that nature lovers crave. With steep climbs and rewarding vistas, it’s a favorite among backpackers and experienced hikers.
- Ben Hur Trailhead: Another access point to the OHT, this trailhead is a fantastic starting point for exploring more remote areas of the forest. It’s also close to several waterfalls, including Illinois Bayou Mill Hole Falls, making it a great choice for a day trip.
- Six Finger Falls & Bear Creek: These cascading falls are a highlight of the region, especially after rain when they are at their most powerful. The unique geological formations of Six Finger Falls make it a popular spot for photography, while Bear Creek offers opportunities for exploration and cooling off on a hot day.
Fairview’s Future: A Decommissioned Campground?
Unfortunately, the future of Fairview Campground has been uncertain for some time. Since the development of the nearby Rotary Ann Rest Area in 2006, usage of Fairview Campground has declined significantly. In 2014, the Big Piney Ranger District considered decommissioning the campground as part of an effort to reduce the number of underutilized recreation areas in the National Forest. If decommissioned, the campground amenities would be removed, and the area would revert to dispersed camping only, with some improvements potentially made to the OHT parking area.
However, even if the formal campground were to be decommissioned, this area would continue to serve as a crucial access point for the Ozark Highlands Trail and the surrounding wilderness areas. The OHT reroute, completed in the last few years, has only improved trail access in this beautiful region.
Fairview Campground, with its rich history and incredible access to nature, remains a special spot in the Ozarks. Whether you’re setting up camp for a peaceful retreat or embarking on a hiking adventure through the Ozark Highlands Trail, Fairview offers a bit of everything—quiet beauty, fascinating history, and proximity to some of the best sights in the region. Though its future as an official campground may be in question, the area will undoubtedly remain a beloved destination for hikers, campers, and history enthusiasts alike.
