Beauty and History at Blue Spring Heritage Center

Blue Spring Heritage Center is a hidden gem of breathtaking natural beauty and rich history, located just 15 minutes from the Beaver Lake cabins and suites of Sugar Ridge Resort. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, this 33-acre botanical garden and historic site offers an unforgettable experience.

Guests of Sugar Ridge Resort will discover that there’s plenty to do and to see right here on Beaver Lake. The location of the resort provides sweeping views of the lake, with hiking, biking, boating, and fishing within very easy reach. Consequently, a good number of our guests never feel the need to wander too far off.

That being said, the wonders of Beaver Lake are but one of the area’s many must-see attractions. In fact, we’re surrounded by a variety of destinations that are well worth your time. With spring right around the corner, one of the first that comes to mind is Blue Spring Heritage Center.

Visiting Blue Spring Heritage Center

The highlight of the center is Blue Spring itself, one of Arkansas’ largest natural springs. The spring’s strikingly blue waters flow at an incredible rate of 38 million gallons per day. The water forms a tranquil lagoon before spilling over into the White River, as it has for thousands of years. A viewing deck makes taking in the serene beauty of the spring’s crystal-clear waters a relaxing experience. You can even feed the trout in the lagoon – a very popular pastime!

Blue Spring Heritage Center is also home to lush gardens showcasing native plants, vibrant flowers, and towering trees. The Woodland Garden offers a shaded path filled with wildflowers, while the Medicine Wheel Garden highlights plants historically used by indigenous people for medicinal and spiritual purposes.

Visitors can enjoy winding walking trails that meander past rock formations, cascading water features, and peaceful ponds. Benches are thoughtfully placed throughout the gardens, providing perfect spots to sit and take in the sights and sounds of nature.

The combination of water, flora, and wooded areas makes Blue Spring Heritage Center a haven for wildlife. Birdwatchers will delight in spotting songbirds, herons, and hawks. Nature photographers will find endless inspiration in the reflections of the blue waters, blooming flowers, and ancient rock formations.

Beautiful Scenery But Also A Deep History

Thinking Blue Spring is a beautiful place is not a new phenomenon. The Cherokee and other indigenous groups recognized Blue Spring as a sacred site long before European settlers arrived. In fact, the center’s Blue Spring Shelter, an archaeological site listed on the National Register of Historic Places, shows evidence of human habitation going back some 10,000 years!

Not all of the area’s history is happy, unfortunately. Blue Spring also served as a stopping point during the tragic Trail of Tears era. This is when Cherokee people were forced from their homelands to present-day Oklahoma between 1830 and 1850. Consequently, Blue Spring is recognized as part of the Trail of Tears National Historic Trail.

Interpretive signs throughout the center explain the historical, natural, and cultural significance of the area.

Planning Your Visit

Blue Spring Heritage Center is open daily, 9am to 6pm, from March 15th through November 29. Blue Spring Heritage Center is located at 1537 Co Rd 210, Eureka Springs, AR. This is just north of both our Beaver Lake resort and Eureka Springs; an easy and scenic 15 minute drive.

The center is a fantastic destination during the springtime bloom, as a summer retreat, or for a fall foliage adventure. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll, a history lesson, or simply a quiet place to recharge, this natural wonder offers it all.

Learn more at bluespringheritage.com. You can also find the Center on Facebook.

Explore Dogwood Canyon Nature Park

Those looking to take in the natural beauty of the Ozarks on a day trip will enjoy a visit to Dogwood Canyon Nature Park. This breathtaking nature preserve is home to trails, waterfalls, towering limestone bluffs, wildlife, and crystal-clear streams. Even better, it’s just under an hour from our Eureka Springs area bed and breakfast!

Fans of the great outdoors will find plenty to love about their stay at Sugar Ridge Resort. Our location overlooking Beaver Lake offers panoramic views and plenty of opportunities for fishing, boating, hiking, wildlife, and more.

It can be fun to spend the day exploring the area on a longer jaunt, too. Many of our guests enjoy day trips to Branson, MO, Crystal Bridges Art Museum in Bentonville, and other destinations. One journey we encourage is to gorgeous Dogwood Canyon. This popular, 10,000-acre nature preserve spans the Arkansas-Missouri border and is less than an hour’s drive from our Beaver Lake resort.

In fact, the drive to Dogwood Canyon is a scenic experience in itself. The route winds through lush forests and scenic byways, offering glimpses of Beaver Lake and the picturesque Ozark countryside. A rustic mill and the visitor center greet you as you arrive at the park, a perfect welcome for a day immersed in nature.

Visiting Dogwood Canyon Nature Park

Dogwood Canyon is located at 2038 West State Hwy 86, in Lampe, MO. The park offers a variety of ways to explore and enjoy its natural beauty, whether you’re after lazy leisure or energetic activity.

A 6.5-mile, paved, hiking and biking trail winds through park past breathtaking landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and clear, trout-filled streams. You say you didn’t bring your bike? No problem! You can rent one on-site!

For a more immersive back country experience, you can also explore the trails on horseback. Guided horseback rides take you through wooded paths, across streams, and into areas less traveled by foot.

You can also experience the park’s wilderness without breaking a sweat. Wildlife Tram Tours, off-road tours, and educational tours take you deep into the preserve. Here you’ll see wildlife like elk and bison, and see larger portions of the park’s back country.

Anglers will love casting a line into the park’s well-stocked waters, which teem with rainbow trout. If you’re new to the sport, guided fly-fishing lessons are available to help you refine your skills.

Exploring the great outdoors can cause you to work up quite the appetite but don’t worry. The park’s Mill & Canyon Grill is here to make sure you won’t go hungry!

With its stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, and endless outdoor activities, Dogwood Canyon Nature Park is a destination you won’t want to miss. Visit dogwoodcanyon.org for seasonal hours and more details.

The Home Again to Sugar Ridge Resort

After a full day of adventure, return to Sugar Ridge Resort for a well-earned rest. Relax in your private hot tub, sip a glass of wine on the deck, and take in the sunset as the sounds of nature surround you.

Whether you enjoy hiking through the scenic trails of Dogwood Canyon or prefer to simply soak up the tranquil beauty of Beaver Lake, Sugar Ridge Resort makes the perfect home away from home in the Ozarks. We hope to see you soon!

Discover Hobbs State Park – Arkansas’ Largest State Park!

Nestled just outside Eureka Springs, Sugar Ridge Resort offers the perfect home base for exploring all the area’s attractions. In fact Hobbs State Park, Arkansas’ largest state park, is just a short drive away!

The cozy cabins and suites of our Eureka Springs Resort overlook the serene beauty of Beaver Lake. This scenic location provides our guests with lush, panoramic lake and forest views. Imagine starting your morning with coffee on a private deck, watching the sunrise over the lake. Later, the tranquil atmosphere and luxurious accommodations make a great place to unwind after a day’s exploring.

Hobbs State Park is a nature lover’s paradise. The largest state park in Arkansas at over 12,000 acres, you can easily immerse yourself in the beauty of the natural world.

The park is known for its diverse landscapes, including oak-hickory forests, limestone bluffs, and the pristine waters of Beaver Lake. From hiking and biking trails to lake activities and historical landmarks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Hobbs State Park – Conservation Area

Hobbs State Park spans the southern shore of Beaver Lake at 20201 AR-12, Rogers, AR 72756. A scenic drive of less than an hour from Sugar Ridge Resort.

Activities to Enjoy

Hiking Trails: Hobbs State Park boasts trails for every skill level. The 1.5-mile Historic Van Winkle Trail offers an easy walk through a scenic valley and highlights the remnants of a Civil War-era sawmill. For those seeking more adventure, the 16-mile Hidden Diversity Multi-Use Trail is perfect for hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding.
Paddling on Beaver Lake: Bring your kayak or rent one locally to explore the calm waters of Beaver Lake. Paddle through serene coves, taking in the peaceful surroundings and watching for wildlife like bald eagles and great blue herons.
Wildlife Watching: Hobbs State Park is a haven for birdwatching and nature enthusiasts. Keep your eyes peeled for deer, wild turkeys, and the occasional fox as you explore the park’s trails.

Hobbs State Park is open year-round, offering a different experience with each season. Spring and summer bring vibrant wildflowers and lush greenery, while fall paints the landscape with warm hues of red, orange, and yellow. Winter offers a peaceful retreat, perfect for crisp hikes and quiet reflection.

Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure or a peaceful escape, Hobbs State Park in Rogers, AR, delivers a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Pack your gear, grab your camera, and get ready to create unforgettable memories in the heart of the Ozarks.

Visit arkansasstateparks.com for more information.

Then Home Again to Sugar Ridge Resort

After a day of adventure, retreat to the comfort of Sugar Ridge Resort. Unwind in a luxurious hot tub or relax on your private deck while soaking in the spectacular sunset over Beaver Lake. The combination of outdoor fun and resort comfort ensures a perfect balance of excitement and relaxation.

Whether you’re looking to reconnect with nature, enjoy a romantic escape, or embark on an outdoor adventure, staying at Sugar Ridge Resort and exploring Hobbs State Park offers the best of both worlds. Start planning your Ozarks getaway today!