Date: April 4, 2022 | Story: Stephanie Maxwell Newton |
Travelers from near and far find respite in the state’s northern mountains | A Special At Home in Arkansas Promotion
Photos courtesy of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism
Arkansas is the sort of place you can live your whole life and still find surprises; at least, that’s how Prairie Grove resident Brenda Black felt when she started spending time in the Ozarks. As the owners of Westwood Gardens, she and her husband, Russell, found themselves invited to a secluded property in Newton County by a customer who soon became a dear friend. “He bought a large load of trees and wanted us to deliver them. When we finally got to the property and saw the view, we said, Oh my gosh, this is incredible,” Brenda says. Perched on a ledge overlooking the Little Buffalo River, the home is aptly named Star’s Edge. Years later, when their friend was ready to put the mountain home on the market, Brenda and Russell jumped at the chance to call this retreat their getaway.
Now, the Blacks and their family enjoy holidays and long weekends at the lodge, but you don’t have to have a beloved home base of your own to explore this beautiful landscape. Spanning approximately 13,000 square miles and 25 counties across the northern part of the state, it’s a region that calls for repeat visits. And whether your destination is the Victorian ambience of Eureka Springs or waters of the Buffalo River, getting there is half the fun. “The journey itself just de-stresses you,” Brenda says, describing the winding drive from her home to Star’s Edge. “The miles and miles of rolling hills, the green farmland, the rivers you pass over—it’s different every time you go. It kind of harkens you back to a slower pace with fewer people around and a simpler way of life. It’s a very special place to have right here, just a couple of hours away from our major cities.” Read on for a few of our favorite ways to discover Eureka Springs and the Ozarks.
Downtown Eureka Springs
A kayaker explores a cave on the Middle Buffalo.
Part of the Rush Historic District in Marion County
Stay & Explore
The Getaway (stayozark.com) in Madison County is an escape like no other. With accommodations for four, a fully stocked kitchen, and arrangements available for private catering or spa treatments, this modern mountain home has it all. Your hosts can even arrange kayaking and hiking tours, offer recommendations for nearby Eureka Springs, or book a day trip to Branson via helicopter.
For those seeking to float the Buffalo River, let Buffalo River Outfitters (buffaloriveroutfitters.com) be your guide. Located conveniently on the Middle Buffalo, they offer canoe and kayak rentals, organized float trips, shuttle service, and accommodations for groups large and small; they’re also an excellent resource for those hoping to use national park campgrounds.
Gaston’s White River Resort (gastons.com) near Mountain Home can’t be beat for world-class trout fishing. Book a guided fishing trip, rent a boat on your own, or fish from the banks of the resort’s 400-acre property. Accommodations include cozy bedrooms and large cottages suitable for family gatherings—meaning there’s something for everyone.
