Sam’s Throne Arkansas

Rock Overlook at Sam's Throne

Sam’s Throne Arkansas
Description: Sam’s throne is primaliy known as a premier rock climbing area in the Ozarks. The legend dates back to the 1820s. Buffalo hunter and farmer Sam Davis roamed Arkansas valleys in what is now Newton County, searching for a sister he claimed was kidnapped by Indians. Davis climbed the tall rocks every morning and yelled mighty sermons to those who lived in the valley below. The place became known as Sam’s Throne.
Cost:	There is not a fee for this area however donations are accepted. Open year round. No water available.
Best Time to Visit:	Anytime but summer.
Where it is:	Sam’s Throne is in the Ozark National Forest about 2.5 hours north of Little Rock near Jasper. Located just off State Hwy 123 (Possibly one of the most scenic roads in the State),
Directions:	Sam’s Throne is about 50 miles north of Russellville on Hwy-123 between Lurton and Mt Judea (pronounced Mt Judy) and the main parking area is clearly marked by a nice new wooden Forest Service sign. Follow this road through the camping area to a parking lot where you will find a sign for Sam’s Loop Trail Chickenhead wall access. Follow the well established trail and enjoy some fantastic views of the vally on your way to the wall and overlook.
Map:	View Larger Map
Links:	Ozark-St. Francis National Forests
Video	AETN TV Video on Sam’s Throne primarily focused on rock climbing
GPS Cordinates	Sams Throne is located at latitude – longitude coordinates of N 35.870911 and W -93.058507.

Tips for the Photographer
Equipment:	To include the vast panoramas you will want a wide angle lens. There is also a lot of potential for shooting macro along the trail. Use of a polarizing filter will help with reflections on the leaves and make your skies bluer.
What to Photograph:	The valley below, the Chicken Head Wall, rock overhangs and trees clinging to the rock. You may also be able to photograph rock climbers.
Photography Tips:	When shooting with a polarizing filter you want the sun to be hitting the side of the lens for the most effect, with the sun at your back or shooting into the sun the filter will do very little.Shooting midday will result in high contrast and dappled shade, neither of which make for good landscapes. Best time to shoot is early morning or late in the day.