Northwest Arkansas has just about everything you can think of, so it’s clear why so many people are choosing to call it home. Around every corner is something to do, from beloved coffee shops to bustling nightlife scenes to a variety of small businesses to shop with. The core of Northwest Arkansas’ charm, however, isn’t confined to four walls – it’s outside! Northwest Arkansas is lucky enough to call itself a part of the Ozark National Forest, 1.2 million acres of trees, lakes, trails, rock climbing, mountains and beautiful scenery. No matter the time of year, there is always something to do in the Ozarks.
When exploring the natural beauty of the Ozarks in Northwest Arkansas, no matter how small the exhibition, it’s always smart to be well-prepared for anything. Fayetteville City Lifestyle sat down with Justin Macedo, owner of Uncle Sam's Safari Outfitters, an outdoor specialty retail shop that’s called Fayetteville home for 43 years, to learn more about the Ozarks and how to take advantage of its offerings safely.
This issue is all about getting outdoors. What would you say is special about the Ozarks?
There’s a little bit of everything. You’ve got mountains, rivers, running trails, rock walls, waterfalls, lakes, biking trails and enough public land to last a lifetime. You can find challenging things, like whitewater kayaking, rock climbing or trail running in the mountains or have a chill river float, stroll by a lake or a scenic hike in the hills. It’s easy to find a spot for these activities, and you can do it year round, it’s not seasonal dependent. Besides the activities and beautiful scenery, the people and community in the Ozarks really sets the region apart. Whether it's someone letting you in on some climbing beta, a cool waterfall hike or the best smallmouth lure on the Kings, the people you encounter make me proud to call this place home.
For those who might be on the fence about wanting to become an outdoor explorer this summer, what can you say that might tip them over the edge?
In Arkansas, it’s hot. Thankfully, we have so many lakes, creeks and rivers in the state. It’s really hard to beat a hot summer day when it’s 90 degrees out and the creek water is 70 degrees. There are plenty of close and easily accessible areas to hang out. For me, exploring the outdoors brings a sense of accomplishment, especially when you're in a rut. You can decompress and take a breath, but feel productive and proud of finding a place that is off the beaten path.
Do you have any location recommendations for first-time Ozark explorers?
Devil’s Den is the perfect start for the Ozarks, it’s got everything, and it’s really accessible. There are also several small places around here, like Lincoln Lake or Wilson Lake. They’re small and not very intimidating. If you’re wanting to get out, Mount Sequoyah feels like the middle of nowhere, but you’re in the middle of Fayetteville! Those are awesome, beginner-level exhibitions that you don’t really have to commit to.
As amazing as the outdoors are, it can be dangerous if you're not prepared. What are some must-have items of gear that Uncle Sam's recommends to ensure a safe exhibition?
The big thing is not pushing yourself more than you are comfortable with. Most of the trouble people find themselves in is because they are doing things they know that they shouldn’t. Don’t push your luck with skill, and make sure you are going with someone else with experience if it is your first time doing something. With that being said, most issues are going to be comfort-based. So, when you’re going out, make sure you are wearing sun-protective clothing or else you will be sunburned. Ticks can make you really sick in Arkansas, so make sure that you’ve got bug repellent. I personally recommend repellent with picaridin. As for gear, make sure that you have a basic first-aid kit and know how to use it. Also, make sure that you have a map and a compass – all of which you can find here at Uncle Sam’s!
What’s one thing you make sure that you never forget on an exhibition, no matter how short?
I always make sure that I have some way of getting water. In the summer, you can easily run into dehydration or heat stroke. Water filters are cheap and weightless, and carrying them with you can help combat that.
Do you have any final tips for those preparing to explore the Ozarks this summer, regardless of skill level?
Have fun! Fayetteville is blessed to have a lot of public land. There are so many places that aren’t super popular that are still worth exploring, and using a private-public land map can help you find them. It can be really fun to get off the trail, as long as you are prepared.
If the Ozark Mountains are calling your name this summer, stop by Uncle Sam’s Safari Outfitters at 1494 N College Avenue, where an employee can help you prepare for your next adventure, or online at unclesamsgear.com.