These strange settlements are worth looking for because of their uniqueness, whether you happen upon Toad Suck while traveling by car or visit places like Smackover or Oil Trough.
Perhaps while they might make people laugh (or perhaps raise an eyebrow), each of them has contributed in some way to the growth of the American South, and the finest of them are far more than just a strangely named spot on a map.
Whether you want to journey down lesser-traveled roads or delve into ancient legends, Arkansas’ most oddly named towns offer an entertaining glimpse into the real “Natural State.”
Smackover
Smackover, which is only a short drive from the Louisiana state line, got its quirky moniker from the French.
Originating from the French phrase “Sumac Couvert,” which roughly translates to “covered in sumac” (a common spice), Smackover was founded in 1922 and gained notoriety rapidly during the 1920s oil boom as workers, investors, and drillers from all over the country relocated to the area.
The old Smackover Bank, which was finished in 1931, is one of the historic buildings from the early 1930s that may be seen during a tour through downtown Smackover.
Many of these buildings were constructed to accommodate the demands of oil workers.
Toad Suck
Indeed, there is such a thing as Toad Suck.
Legend has it that steamboat sailors that paused along the Arkansas River to “suck on bottles until they swelled up like toads” gave this little village of less than 300 people the nickname, making it one of Arkansas’s most oddly named places.
Since barges and steamboats began using the river to move cargo in the middle of the 1800s, the region has been connected to river trade.
Make sure to check out the nearby Toad Suck Park if you decide to visit the lock.
This 48-acre green area offers picnic areas, a small hiking track, and an opportunity to admire the lock’s remarkable engineering.
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Oil Trough
The name “Oil Trough” comes from the early French trappers who lived in the area, who converted animal fat into oil and kept it in wooden troughs. It is located in Independence County along the White River.
Although there are just 223 residents, the region has a long history of trade related to the movement of agricultural products and furs down the river.
For those who enjoy fishing and animal observation, Oil Trough also has a number of natural attractions.
The White River’s catfish and crappie habitats can be accessed by a public boat launch, and Oil Trough City Park is a five-acre green area with a walking trail and a small sunfish-stocked pond.
Flippin
Thomas Flippin, who moved in the area in the late 19th century, is credited with giving the town its name. Flippin is located in Marion County, close to the northern border of Missouri.
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Historically dependent on agriculture and lumber, Flippin was officially formed in 1921 and became even more well-known for its closeness to the White River.
In relation to Flippin fishing, Bull Shoals Lake, which is close by, is among the top locations in the state for largemouth bass netting.
The lake, which spans an amazing 45,000 acres and was created by the construction of Bull Shoals Dam in 1951, is also a popular place to go boating and water skiing.
Fifty-Six
School District 56, the community’s main identifier at the time, is responsible for the moniker of Fifty-Six, one of the most oddly named towns in the US. It was formed in 1918.
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Although it only has 160 residents, it is definitely worth a visit because of its proximity to several important Arkansas outdoor attractions.
Just to the north is the Ozark National Forest, which spans more than 1.2 million acres and provides countless outdoor experiences through its campgrounds, hiking trails, and picturesque roads.
Although there aren’t many commercial amenities at Fifty-Six proper, you should visit the Fifty Six Country Store.
Built in 1922 and still in use today, it also houses a number of historical photos and correspondence that trace the community’s origins.
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