Welcome to Searcy County, Arkansas!
VENUE:
TYLER BEND VISITOR CENTER
170 RANGER ROAD
ST. JOE, AR 72675
Getting There
The Ozarks are a beautiful place to visit! We are very excited to get to introduce many of you to the region. It does require a bit of travel to get there though. We've provided some suggestions for those coming from near and far.
WHERE TO FLY INTO:
Clinton National Airport (LIT)
Little Rock is approximately 2 hours from Gilbert via US-65. It is the most straightforward drive to get here.
Memphis, TN (MEM)
Memphis is a further drive, however it can be a cheaper option for some. It's approximately 4 hours from Gilbert via US-64.
Northwest Arkansas National Airport (XNA)
Fayetteville, AR is home to the University of Arkansas and is in the heart of the Ozarks. It is just over 2 hours from Gilbert via US-412.
Kansas City, MO (MCI)
Kansas City airport may also be a cheaper option for some. However, it is 5 hours from Gilbert via US-65.
Once You're There
Here are some neat things to do while in Arkansas!
LITTLE ROCK/CENTRAL ARKANSAS:
Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts
Recently renovated with an addition by Studio gang, AMFA offers an inspiring array of visual, performing arts, and educational experiences.
William J. Clinton Presidential Library
The William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum is the presidential library of Bill Clinton, who served as the 42nd president of the United States from 1993 to 2001.
Little Rock Central National Historic Site
Take a tour of Little Rock Central High School in Arkansas to learn about the Little Rock Nine and desegregation after Brown v. Board of Education.
Hot Springs National Park
The park contains 47 hot springs, or geothermal pools that spout up from inside the Earth. tourists can take relaxing soaks at one of the historic bathhouses in the park that pipe in water collected from the springs.
FAYETTEVILLE/NORTHWEST ARKANSAS:
University of Arkansas
founded in 1871, the hill is home to the razorbacks, julia attended college there. call those hogs!
Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
to welcome all to celebrate the American spirit in a setting that unites the power of art with the beauty of nature. Founded by Alice Walton, Crystal Bridges welcomes all with free admission.
Devils Den State Park
An Arkansas icon, this special place nestled in Lee Creek Valley was selected as a state park site in the 1930s. Some of the park’s unique characteristics are rock formations and caverns. The park’s hiking, backpacking, mountain bike, and horseback riding trails lead to the surrounding Ozark National Forest.
Eureka Springs - Thorncrown Chapel
Eureka Springs, Arkansas, has been a popular resort town and vacation destination since the 1800s. Nestled in the Ozark Mountains surrounded by rivers and lakes, it became known early on for its healing waters, Victorian architecture and historical significance and as a haven for artists.
BUFFALO RIVER AREA:
Buffalo River - Swim/Float/Fish
Established in 1972, Buffalo National River flows freely for 135 miles and is one of the few remaining undammed rivers in the lower 48 states. prepare to journey from running rapids to quiet pools while surrounded by massive bluffs as you cruise through the Ozark Mountains down to the White River.
Red Bluff Overlook
You don’t have to hike for miles and miles to find incredible views in Arkansas. Instead, you can trek about 40 feet to Red Bluff Overlook. Sure to impress, the overlook boasts unparalleled views of the Buffalo River and beyond.
Indian Rockhouse Trail
At 3.5 miles, round-trip, the Indian Rockhouse Trail meanders past a sinkhole, waterfall, mine prospect, Panther Creek, sculpted bedrock and a quarry. Many of these geologic features are typical of a karst landscape.
Whitaker Point - Hawksbill Crag
Hawksbill Crag, aka Whitaker Point, is one of the most popular hiking spots in all of Arkansas and only ~60 miles from Fayetteville. This is a stunning 3-mile round trip hike that leads to the most photographed, and quite honestly the most beautiful spot in all of Arkansas.
Where to Stay
Hotels and AirBNBs to check out
Gilbert & St. Joe, AR - Cabins/AirBnbs
There are several quaint cabins and cottages in the gilbert/St. Joe area that are still available. we recommend looking here first, as it is closest to the venues.
Harrison, AR - Hotels
Harrison is a larger city in the area, about 30 minutes away, and has several options for accommodations.
Camping in the Area
Finally, for those who can't get enough of the Ozark beauty, there are several campsites close by!