2014 Map of Sand Gap

About this map

Freeman Springs and Sand Gap anchor this high-elevation portion of the Ozark National Forest at the boundary of Newton and Pope Counties. The landscape is defined by the headwaters of several drainage systems, including the N Fork Illinois Bayou and Richland Cr. Deeply incised hollows like Boss Hollow and Still Hollow separate prominent high points such as Sollys Knob, Burgiss Knob, and the curiously named Dare Mine Knob. The presence of the Fairview Fire Tower atop a ridge near the intersection of State Hwy 7 and State Hwy 123 highlights the forest management priorities of the region. Local heritage is preserved in several small burial grounds, including Richland Cem and Freeman Springs Cem, which serve as quiet markers of the families who settled this dissected plateau. Notable geological formations like Pedestal Rocks and Arch Rock appear in the eastern sections, indicating the unique erosion patterns of the Ozark sandstone.