There are small towns in Arkansas with big-city vibes. They offer tons of amenities that attract thousands of visitors every year. And while those towns are great, it’s the sleepy little towns that have the most charm. That’s especially true for Kingston, an unincorporated community in Madison County. With a population of less than 150 residents as well as a quaint town square, this tiny community appears to be stuck in time. But don’t let the size fool you, this quaint little town in Arkansas has a lot to offer. It is surrounded by the best of the Ozarks, and if you ask me, it’s a true hidden gem in our state.

Nestled inside the majestic Ozarks, you'll find the tiny town of Kingston Arkansas.
quaint little town in Arkansas
David D/Google
Surrounded by astounding beauty, this sleepy little town is one of the best places to visit in our state.
Founded in 1853 by King John, there isn't much history to be told of Kingston, but it’s a timeless hidden gem in Arkansas.
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr
Inside the town, you'll find a quaint little square with antique shops, a bank, a small library, as well as a charming gazebo.
Additionally, the square is lined with historical commercial buildings featuring incredible architecture...
Anstaff Bank/Google
...and a couple have been placed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Built in 1890, the Bunch Store, an old mercantile store, was once a bustling business in Kingston.
Valis55, CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons
Unfortunately, it's no longer operating, but it's a historical landmark that is worth exploring. Be sure to stroll through the town to admire all the historical sites as well as the shops.
Aside from the town square, there are charming bed and breakfasts as well as rustic cabins scattered throughout the area.
Cabin at OZK Ranch/Google
So, if you ever need somewhere to stay, you'll have lots of options.
As with many sleepy towns, there is a tiny gas station that serves some delicious eats. When you're in the area, it's a great place to stop and rub elbows with the locals.
Leelaprasad Yarlagadda/Google
But what makes this quaint little town in Arkansas a true hidden gem is that it features some of the best natural wonders in the Ozarks.
Kenton Pauls/Google
There are endless waterfalls within minutes of the town square one of which is the astoundingly beautiful Sweden Creek Falls. This pretty waterfall with its turquoise pool, is truly a sight to behold.
If you've hiked the Lost Valley Trail, then you know that it's arguably the best hiking trail in Arkansas. And yes, the trailhead is in Kingston.
Kyle Guidry/Google
The trail features some of the best that the Ozarks have to offer, including hidden caves, waterfalls, rock formations, and so much more.
Did I mention that you can witness buffalos and Elk in Kingston?
Wilderness Rider Buffalo Ranch/Facebook
The Wilderness Rider Buffalo Ranch is an expansive off-road attraction where you can see these gorgeous creatures.
And speaking of Buffalo, Kingston is located within minutes of the Buffalo National River. This means that you'll have access to all that this natural wonder has to offer.
Buffalo National River/Facebook
So, if you've ever hiked the Lost Valley Trail or explored the Buffalo River, you were inside the borders of the sleepy town of Kingston.
Johnny Dalton/Google
The next time you're in the area, stop by the quaint little downtown square to check out the historical sites, and be sure to rub elbows with the locals.

Have you ever visited the town of Kingston, a timeless hidden gem in Arkansas? Or, did you explore any of the natural wonders in the area? If so, share your experience in the comments below.

If you would like to make your trip to Kingston an overnight adventure, here’s an adorable rustic cabin nearby that we recommend.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

Related Articles

Featured Addresses
Kingston, AR, USA