In the heart of the Ozark Mountains lies the peaceful and picturesque Withrow Springs State Park. Nature lovers will have no shortage of things to do and see in this 786 acre park. There are scenic trails to hike, tennis courts and areas for fishing, canoe rentals for river floats and campsites for a night under the stars. The park, which is named for settler Richard Withrow, is located just 20 miles from Eureka Springs, Arkansas. Whether you take State Highway 23 or Highway 412 in to the area, the drive into the park is a feast for the eyes as you travel through the stunning Ozarks.
When hiking in Withrow Springs, the trails will leave you breathless as you pass rivers, scenic overlooks and views of the mountains and hills. The War Eagle Trail is named for the river it runs alongside. A scenic overlook atop a 150 foot high bluff can be found along the one mile trail. The views alone make this one of the park’s most popular hikes. The Dogwood Nature Trail runs for ¾ of a mile and winds through several ridges and benches. Its name comes from the many blooming dogwood trees that line the trail paths and can be best enjoyed during spring when the dogwoods are in bloom. The 1 ¼ mile Forest Trail follows an old roadway and can take as long as 3-4 hours to complete. The trail is lined by oak and hickory trees and wildlife can be seen along the way.
When camping at the park, there are 30 Class AAA campsites to accommodate campers. The sites have water, up to 50 amp service and sewer hookup. Each campsite has room for an RV and a tent. There are 17 Standard B sites with water and electric hookups. There is also a modern, barrier free bathhouse nearby. In the summer months, there is a swimming pool and snack bar to enjoy. The park has access to baseball and softball fields, tennis courts, tree shaded picnic sites, pavilions for rent and a gift shop.
From March through around mid-June, visitors can float the War Eagle Creek that runs through the park. The creek is labeled as a Class 1 for easy floating, ideal for families. Canoes can be rented for $45 per day or $30 for a half day rental. There is also a shuttle service to get you where you need to go. If floating is not your thing, the creek is a great site for fishing. Catfish, bream, perch and bass can all be caught here.
To complete a weekend away in the mountains, a stay at a B&B is a must. Arsenic and Old Lace bed and breakfast is located in Eureka Springs in the heart of the Ozarks. A quick 30 minute drive from the park, this bed and breakfast offers five spacious guest suites each complete with private bathroom. With the changing season fast approaching, the wrap around porch is a peaceful place to enjoy views of the turning leaves. Each morning begins with a complete breakfast to make sure the day gets off to a good start. Throughout the afternoon, guests are treated to homemade chocolate chip cookies and other tasty snacks. There is a two night minimum stay on weekends. Room availability and reservations can be checked online or by calling 1-866-350-5454.
Photo courtesy of MDIANEM