About Calico Rock
Calico Rock is more than a dot on the map — it’s a community rooted in the Ozark Mountains and defined by the White River that runs through it. Incorporated in 1903, our town blends natural beauty, rich history, and modern amenities in a way that feels both timeless and alive. Here, you can cast a line for rainbow trout, hike into the Ozark National Forest, or explore historic Main Street with its museums, shops, and hometown restaurants. We’re a place where neighbors still know each other by name, kids grow up with big opportunities in a small school, and visitors discover a pace of life that’s refreshing in today’s world. Whether you come for adventure, for family, or for a future, you’ll find Calico Rock is a place worth calling your own.
Our History
Along the banks of the White River, Calico Rock has always been shaped by the rugged Ozark Mountains and the spirit of the people who call it home. Long before settlers arrived, Native American tribes hunted, fished, and traded along these river bluffs. In the early 1800s, trappers and pioneers followed, drawn by the abundance of timber, game, and natural beauty.
It was those early trappers who gave Calico Rock its name—seeing the streaks of red, gray, and white limestone on the bluff and likening them to the colorful calico fabric they carried in trade. From its days as a steamboat landing and railroad stop to its role as a hub for timber, mining, and commerce, Calico Rock has carried a story as rich and layered as its stone.
Today, our community blends that same natural beauty, hometown pride, and enduring heritage—making Calico Rock a place that’s both timeless and alive with possibility.
Hometown Heart
In Calico Rock, every season brings something to look forward to. Celebrate local talent at First Saturdays: Meet the Artisans, experience the magic of the holidays during Living Windows on Main Street, or cheer on hometown spirit at our rodeos. With family activities, and gatherings that bring neighbors together, our events showcase the true heart of Calico Rock.
