Serving Smiles Since 1890...

In the Middle of Nowhere...Somewhere!

The Oark General Store

The Oark General Store, listed in the Arkansas Register of Historic Places, was opened in 1890 in response to demand for groceries and supplies in the isolated community of Oark, in northern Johnson County. The Store has served the area ever since, giving it the distinct recognition of being the oldest continually-operated store in the Natural State.

The rural community of Oark is surrounded by the Ozark National Forest and has access to many natural settings: The Mulberry River, a National Wild and Scenic River; the Ozark Highlands Trail, a spectacular 200-mile trail great for day hikes and camping; and countless miles of off-road trails for outdoor enthusiasts, including the legendary Trans-America Trail.

In recent years, the Oark General Store has become an attractive destination for both on and off-road travelers due to its location along windy and dramatic Ozark highways. The Store has transitioned from mainly groceries and supplies to a full-service restaurant, serving fresh quality ingredients with a smile.

Its a one-of-a-kind drive-to-eat experience everyone must try.