Are there fees or permits required for Bailey Falls?

No, there are no fees required to visit Bailey Falls.

Is swimming allowed at Bailey Falls?

No, swimming is not allowed at Bailey Falls.

Bailey Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Bailey Falls?

Yes, dogs are allowed at Bailey Falls.

Arkansas

By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026

LiDAR & 3D terrain

Also For 1 other waterfall also named Bailey Falls, see below

Photo Credits (4)

jball359 CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

2.0 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

200 ft

About Bailey Falls

Tucked into a quiet stretch of Arkansas woodland, Bailey Falls is a low-key cascade that feels like a private retreat — especially after a good rain when the stream fills and photographers can catch dramatic flow framed by verdant forest. The approach threads through mossy rocks and shaded streamside vegetation, offering an intimate, peaceful setting rather than a crowded viewpoint. It’s an easy spot to linger with a camera or a picnic and enjoy the hush of the woods. Access is a straightforward 2.0-mile out-and-back hike with roughly 200 feet of elevation gain and a moderate rating, making it an achievable half-day outing for most active visitors. There aren’t developed campgrounds at the falls; the nearest developed option is Dam Site Campground, about 25.57 km away, so plan overnight stays accordingly if you’re looking to camp nearby.

Trail & Hike Details

2.0 mi distance 200 ft climbed

The Approach

The moderate 2.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 200 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.

Trail Description

Trail type: out-and-back. Length: 2.0 miles round trip. Elevation gain: approximately 200 feet. Difficulty: moderate. The route follows a mostly natural dirt surface with rocky, uneven sections and several short, moderate grades rather than long sustained climbs. Expect muddy, slick spots after rain and some short uneven stretches rather than a fully maintained boardwalk or paved path — sturdy, grippy footwear is recommended.

What to Expect

Dogs are welcome.

Accessibility

The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.

Frequently Asked Questions

🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Bailey Falls?

✅ Dogs are allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🆖 No fees required

🏊 Is There Swimming at Bailey Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall

Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the waterfall is typically more active due to seasonal rainfall.

Seasonal Access

The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.

Safety Information

The trail may become slippery after rain, and there are rocky sections near the waterfall. Visitors should exercise caution and avoid getting too close to the edge of the falls. Cell service may be limited, so inform someone of your plans before heading out.

Know when to go.

Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Concord hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.

Weather Forecast

The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR

Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.

1-meter lidar measures about 143 feet of descent through Bailey Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 678 feet above sea level.

The whole reach is steep: about 126 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 98 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face south and sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.

Aerial photo of the same ground around Bailey Falls near Concord, Arkansas, for comparison with the lidar view

LiDAR bare-earth terrain around Bailey Falls near Concord, Arkansas, showing about 143 feet of drop, a steep tiered drop, facing south

Aerial LiDAR bare earth

Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.

Ground elevation: 678 feet; Measured by 1-meter lidar
Drop at the falls: About 143 feet; Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
Faces: South; Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer light.

Ground profile through the falls

A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading south).

Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.

Location & Access

Getting There

Bailey Falls is located in the Ozark National Forest in Arkansas. Access typically involves driving to a nearby trailhead, followed by a hike through forested terrain. Exact directions may vary depending on the starting point.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking is available near the trailhead, but spaces may be limited. Visitors are advised to arrive early, especially during peak seasons.

Elevation

0 feet above sea level

Coordinates

35.667390° N, -91.770537° W

Visitor Tips & Gear

Bring plenty of water, wear sturdy hiking shoes, and check weather conditions before your visit. The trail may be slippery after rain. Cell service may be limited in the area, so plan accordingly.

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With 2.0 miles and 200 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.