9 Safest Small Communities To Settle In The Ozarks
The Ozark Mountains are located in the south-central US and span across the states of Missouri, Arkansas, Illinois, Oklahoma, and Kansas. This heavily forested region is home to many towns and cities and is rich in natural beauty. The Ozark region is known for its underground streams and springs, as well as for many rivers, including the White and Black rivers. In addition to the natural beauty, the Ozarks are home to several small communities that are among the safest in the US.
Bella Vista, Arkansas
Located in Benton County, this city is surrounded by natural beauty on the Springfield Plateau of the Ozark Mountains. In addition to its beauty, Bella Vista has a low crime rate and is considered safer than 67% of US cities. There is also plenty to do in the town of 30,100 people. History enthusiasts can enjoy the Bella Vista Historical Museum, which features local history and exhibits on early Indian settlements and farms. Those interested in nature will find plenty to do at the Tanyard Creek Nature Trail. This natural area has several waterfalls, a lake, and creeks. Hiking is ideal for all skill levels along the two-mile trail. Lake Avalon is another excellent spot for outdoor recreation. The lake is 67 acres and 50 feet deep. It is ideal for paddling, swimming, and fishing.
Tahlequah, Oklahoma
Tahlequah, located in Cherokee County at the foothills of the Ozark Mountains, has a population of 17,319. It is also a secure place to live with a crime rate lower than the national average. The city is known for its many beautiful outdoor spaces that offer recreation and relaxation. Floyd H Norris Park is a dog-friendly park located in the heart of downtown. The park has a playground, picnic tables, and a stage. It also serves as a location for the summer farmers' market. Another great location in the city is the Cherokee National History Museum. Admission is free, and visitors can enjoy 7,000 square feet of art and tribal heritage while learning about the Cherokee Nation's history and culture. Outdoor enthusiasts will delight in the Welling Ridge Trails. The trails are six miles long and ideal for hiking and mountain biking.
Nixa, Missouri
Nixa is a great, sound, and secure place to live. With a low crime rate and considered 55% safer than most US cities, it is an ideal place to settle. Located between Springfield and Branson, Nixa has 23,257 residents and offers plenty. McCauley Park is an outdoor recreation hotspot that has clean facilities, plenty of play space for children, and ample space for relaxation. The park also includes an 18-hole disc golf course, three soccer fields, an outdoor pool, and a pavilion. Nixa is also home to the Gardens of Woodfield, a six-acre botanical garden with a walking trail. The city hosts several restaurants, including Coyote's Nixa Grille. Visitors can enjoy wings, burgers, and other American cuisine in a sports bar setting.
Cave Springs, Arkansas
With a population of 5,495 residents, Cave Springs is located in Benton County and is part of the Northwest Arkansas metropolitan area. It boasts a low crime rate of 5.43 incidents per 1,000 people, which is lower than the national average of 33.37 incidents per 1,000 people. The town is also a great place for outdoor activities. Cave Springs City Park is a great location to experience lots of green space, mature trees, and a children's playground. The park is open year-round from dawn to dusk. The Creeks Golf & RV Resort is a must-see in Cave Springs. The resort is located on 200 beautiful acres and has excellent amenities, including fully paved deluxe RV sites, free wireless internet, an 18-hole championship golf course, a clubhouse, and much more. The Cave Springs Cave Natural Area is another great location to take in the sights, sounds, and majesty of nature. The cave is a long solution channel formed by a groundwater-fed stream. It has two main loop trails totaling 1.45 miles round-trip. Along the way, visitors will see woodlands above the cave and views of Partners Lake.
Pottsville, Arkansas
Located in Pope County, the town of Pottsville has 3,140 residents and is considered more trustworthy than 68% of US cities. To learn about the town's history, visitors can spend the day at the Potts Inn Museum. The museum is also home to the Butterfield Overland Mail route, one of the best-preserved stagecoach stations. For outdoor fun, the Holla Bend National Wildlife Refuge is a wildlife area where patrons can see deer, armadillos, and hawks. In fall and winter, migratory birds are on the wing, providing an excellent opportunity for birdwatching. If you are hungry, grab a bit at Tammy Lou's Cafe, which serves a variety of home-cooked meals, including Veggie Beef Soup, Taco Salad, and Chicken Fried Steak.
Harrison, Arkansas
If you are looking for a community that is more protected and friendly, Harrison is the answer. Located in Boone County, the town is known as the gateway to the Buffalo National River. Harrison is also known for its beauty with canyons, hills, wide-open spaces, and rivers; outdoor enthusiasts are sure to be delighted. The Buffalo National River Civil War Heritage Trail near the Buffalo National River offers a plethora of activities, including paddling down the river, hiking, camping, and fishing. Harrison is also home to the Arkansas Hot Air Balloon State Championship. The annual event includes a concert, balloon races, and a variety of food vendors. History buffs will enjoy the Boone County Heritage Museum. The museum preserves the history of Boone County and includes information on the history of Native Americans, the Civil War, and the Missouri and North Arkansas Railroad.
Centerton, Arkansas
Centerton is a city that continues to have a low crime rate. The roughly 20,000 residents enjoy the safety of peaceful living in a suburban setting. The city was initially a railroad stop and a fruit orchard community. Today, it is considered one of the fastest-growing cities in Arkansas, with plenty to do. The Marrs Mercantile, located on Main Street, is ideal for shopping. The store offers versatile, unique clothing, jewelry, and accessories. Outdoor recreation is abundant at Lake Centerton. Patrons can enjoy fishing, picnicking, a playground, and walking trails. The El Pueblito Mexican Restaurant is a delight for hungry visitors. The menu includes savory traditional dishes, such as enchiladas and tacos, as well as various specials. Handcrafted margaritas are also offered in this family-friendly environment.
Lake Ozark, Missouri
Lake Ozark has a significantly lower crime rate than the national average for both violent and property crimes. Located in Miller County, Lake Ozark is at the northeast end of the Lake of the Ozarks. The town has several attractions, including the Bagnell Dam, Willmore Lodge, and the Shawnee Bluff Winery. The Bagnell Dam is 148 feet tall and has 12 floodgates. It impounds the Osage River, creating the Lake of the Ozarks. The dam is visible from a walkway near the Osage Energy Center's main office. For history buffs, the Willmore Lodge is an excellent location to learn about the Bagnell Dam. Located in a 1930s lodging house, the museum is free to visitors and provides information on the dam's construction and the community's history. The Shawnee Bluff Winery is a great place for wine tasting among picturesque views. The Tasting Barn is open Thursday through Monday.
Highfill, Arkansas
If you are looking for safety, then look no further than Highfill. The city has a low crime rate for both violent and property crimes. Highfill's crime rate is lower than the national average. It is also a friendly growing community, with things to do in town and in nearby Gentry. The Kaleidoscope Cafe is a great spot to enjoy a morning coffee or tea with baked goods in a cozy, colorful setting. The Black Howler Beer Company is another excellent location featuring food trucks and live entertainment at the veteran-owned microbrewery. For those interested in finding out more about the community, the Highfill Community Building is the place to go. The building was once a historic schoolhouse. Today, it hosts events and gatherings for residents.
Living in a secure, crime-free environment is ideal for homeowners and renters alike. Finding the best place to settle in the Ozarks is easy when considering the cities of Bella Vista, Tahlequah, Nixa, Cave Springs, Pottsville, Harrison, Centerton, Lake Ozark, and Highfill. Not only do these locations offer low crime rates, but they also present many opportunities for recreation and dining. So if you're looking for a new place to call home in the Ozarks region where you can feel safe and sound, these towns should be at the top of your list!
