OHT: Section 7-Fairview to Richland Creek

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Features Birding · Commonly Backpacked · Fall Colors · Geological Significance · Historical Significance · River/Creek · Spring · Views · Waterfall · Wildflowers · Wildlife

• Ozark Highlands Trail (OHT)

Richland campground requires a fee to stay

Following the official naming of segments, number seven winds through solid back country with a few scenic spots. It's a great segment to just enjoy the creation and exercise. More notably, the trail passes by the old Moor CCC camp and makes the big dog leg north that starts the run to the Buffalo River. Watch for wildlife (including black bears) in this area.

The crossing at Richland Creek is ankle deep and should have water year round.

There is a short road walk to cross over falling water creek (which should have water year round) about 5 trail miles from Richland Creek Campground. Don't look at your GPS, because it will tell you that you're only about 2 or less… But, this is the Highlands trail and you get to gratuitously climb up and up way from the road and in and out of the ravines which adds miles but seem like you don't get much closer. Grin. Finally, this segment ends at a road just outside of the campground. The campground has toilets and trash receptacles (there is a fee for camping) but no running water. However, there is plenty at the creek! There is a campsite on the trail just before though.

Fall colors on this trail are astounding. Best time is mid to late November. White oak, black gum, sweet gum elms, oaks, black jacks, and beeches among many others.

Deer, squirrels, birds (notably eagles, hawks, and owls), black bears, mountain lions, coyotes, and even wolves are present along the entire trail