Arkansas is actually surprisingly full of geological wonders. Natural bridges and pedestal rocks particularly come to mind. One of the Natural State’s most impressive wonders, however, isn’t towering or hard to reach. In fact, you can drive right up to it and enjoy it from your car. This geological wonder is called Natural Dam because—you guessed it—it’s a natural dam. With geological appeal during dry spells and so much scenic beauty after a good rain, Natural Dam is a wonder you’ll want to see with your own eyes.
Natural Dam is located between Van Buren and Cedarville on Highway 59.
Mountain Fork Creek is 200 feet wide at Natural Dam, and so is the shelf of rock that dams it.
Flickr/Carol Von Canon
The dam is so perfect that it looks just like the stone was cut perfectly by human tools. . .
Flickr/Edgar Pierce
. . . but it wasn’t. It really is a natural dam, a geological wonder made by nature.
Flickr/Edgar Pierce
It’s easier to see the unique geological formation during dry spells, but something even more amazing happens when the creek level is high:
Flickr/Jonathan Ball
That’s right, Natural Dam becomes a totally lovely waterfall.
Flickr/Texas Tongs
So really, no matter when you visit you’re bound to see an incredible natural wonder. Either the impressive geological formation . . .
Flickr/Carol Von Canon
. . . or its resulting waterfall. In the summer the pool above the dam becomes a swimming hole, and the creek below is perfect for wading.
Flickr/hiker.guy30
In short, this dam is darn cool, both for its geology and its scenic beauty.
Flickr/Kevin Wood
For more natural wonders that look man-made, click here. You may also want to check out this natural wonders road trip.
Flickr/Carol Von Canon
Flickr/Edgar Pierce
Flickr/Jonathan Ball
Flickr/Texas Tongs
Flickr/hiker.guy30
Flickr/Kevin Wood
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