Cleveland County, Arkansas

Cleveland County is located in south-central Arkansas and is one of the state’s most rural areas. Rison serves as the county seat and has fewer than 1,000 residents. U.S. Route 79 is the county’s main highway.

The county is known for its timber industry, with vast pine forests dominating much of the landscape. The Moro Creek Bottoms Natural Area preserves an important area of old-growth hardwood forest, while hunters visit the region during deer season.

Despite its small size and rural character, Cleveland County hosts several community events. The annual Cleveland County Fair in Rison typically features an exhibit hall, rodeo arena, and outdoor stage.

CategoryDetails
County NameCleveland County
County SeatRison
PopulationApproximately 7,500
Cities, Towns, and CommunitiesRison, Kingsland, New Edinburg, Woodlawn, Pansy
Interstates and HighwaysU.S. Route 79, State Route 8, State Route 35, State Route 114
FIPS Code05-025
Total Area (Land and Water)599 square miles (Land: 598 sq mi, Water: 1 sq mi)
Adjacent Counties (and Direction) Grant County (Northwest), Jefferson County (Northeast), Lincoln County (East), Drew County (Southeast), Bradley County (South), Calhoun County (Southwest), Dallas County (West)
Time ZoneCentral Standard Time (CST)
StateArkansas
Coordinates33.8844° N, 92.1747° W
EtymologyNamed after Grover Cleveland, the 22nd and 24th President of the United States
Major LandmarksMarks’ Mills Battleground State Park, Moro Creek Bottoms, Cleveland County Courthouse, White Oak Lake
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