GEOGRAPHY

Some locations are perfectly suited for settlement.  The area near Calico Rock isn't one of them.  The foothills of the Ozark Mountains are steep and treacherous.  The only practical way to get into the region was on the river.

 

Nature did carve out a great place for a settlement.  The mountains flow gently on either side of the river at the place the French called Calico Rock.  Getting to or from the river along Calico Creek's banks was easier here.  The mouth of the creek was a great place to land a boat and start an inland expedition.