Take a hike to the Sandstone Castle, an underrated natural wonder in the Richland Creek Wilderness. This spectacular rock formation is downright otherworldly. The trek may not be the easiest but the end view is worth the effort! Let’s start at another Arkansas gem as we scroll to the Sandstone Castle.

The Twin Falls in the Richland Creek Wilderness are a splendid destination but they’re not the end goal for today’s hike.

AllTrails/Robert Dunn It’s no secret that the Ozark National Forest has some of Arkansas’ most unique natural features. Many of these are concentrated in the Richland Creek Wilderness Area including the Sandstone Castle.

After you’ve hiked to the Twin Falls, follow the creek further to reach the bluffs.

AllTrails/Mason Tomlin There’s a couple of different routes to take to reach both the waterfall and castle features. Use AllTrails to see a GPS-friendly map of the Sandstone Castle via Twin Falls Trail. None of these are easy hikes so be sure to research your picked path carefully before heading out.

If you glimpse a skull in the bluff then you know you’ve reached the Sandstone Castle.

AllTrails/Doug Neidholdt The rock formation is rather daunting from the outside but Sandstone Castle is a true treasure to explore.

This fortress formation is more than just eroded bluffs.

Google/Laurie Shipley The castle was allegedly a hideout for Civil War deserts and other criminals. The numerous “doors” to the castle do give good vantage points of the valley below.

Inside the castle you’ll find a cavernous center room that’s perfect for a lunch break.

Google/Chris Keller The castle is an open maze of nooks to explore. While you’re in the main “room” set up a primitive camp or just take a seat to enjoy some snacks.

Don’t forget to look out from the castle to enjoy the view!

AllTrails/James Gerlach It’s a good way to remember you haven’t left Earth - you’re still in the Ozarks!

Have you ventured through the wilderness to reach these sandstone castles? We’d love to hear about your trek in the comments below! You can also add your photos to our Facebook Group, Arkansas Nature Lovers. You should join for your chance to be featured and to discover why there’s nothing better than Arkansas’ stunning nature.

AllTrails/Robert Dunn

It’s no secret that the Ozark National Forest has some of Arkansas’ most unique natural features. Many of these are concentrated in the Richland Creek Wilderness Area including the Sandstone Castle.

AllTrails/Mason Tomlin

There’s a couple of different routes to take to reach both the waterfall and castle features. Use AllTrails to see a GPS-friendly map of the Sandstone Castle via Twin Falls Trail. None of these are easy hikes so be sure to research your picked path carefully before heading out.

AllTrails/Doug Neidholdt

The rock formation is rather daunting from the outside but Sandstone Castle is a true treasure to explore.

Google/Laurie Shipley

The castle was allegedly a hideout for Civil War deserts and other criminals. The numerous “doors” to the castle do give good vantage points of the valley below.

Google/Chris Keller

The castle is an open maze of nooks to explore. While you’re in the main “room” set up a primitive camp or just take a seat to enjoy some snacks.

AllTrails/James Gerlach

It’s a good way to remember you haven’t left Earth - you’re still in the Ozarks!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

Address: 35.81647, -92.97268