Our Story

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 community ever since.  It has the distinct recognition of being the oldest continually-operated store in Arkansas.

The rural community of Oark is surrounded by 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 dayhikes and camping; as well as 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.  In the last 20 years, the Store has transitioned from mainly groceries and supplies to a full-service restaurant, while keeping staple grocery items and gasoline. 

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