Discover Heber Springs – Water, Trails and History

If you’re looking for a hotel in Heber Springs, it helps to have a clear idea of what you want your trip to focus on: nearby Greers Ferry Lake, trails and natural scenery, or the region’s history. These different themes can help guide your planning without committing you to just one type of outing.

Water Activities on the Lake and River

Nearby Greers Ferry Lake spans more than 30,000 acres of water. Its 22 boat ramps and 9 marinas provide access to 31,500 acres of water. Activities available there include boating, water skiing, fishing, swimming, camping, picnicking and scuba diving. Before planning a day out on the boat, check the current facilities, as their number may change.

The Little Red River below nearby Greers Ferry Dam offers a different waterside setting. It is an exceptional trout fishery. If you plan to fish there, check the applicable rules and access conditions beforehand. The JFK Campground at Collins Creek has a boat launch and a walking access point to the Little Red River.

Trails, Waterfall and Scenic Overlooks

The Sulphur Creek Trail offers more than 9 miles of paved trails through Cleburne County. The route between the ASUB-Heber Springs campus and the Cleburne County Fairgrounds follows lightly traveled side roads and sections of natural-surface trails. Check current trail conditions before setting out. A precisely measured loop option nearby is the 1.6-mile Mossy Bluff National Nature Trail: it runs along a wooded bluff and offers views of the Little Red River below Greers Ferry Dam.

Bridal Veil Falls features a waterfall and trails for most ability levels. An observation platform is an easy walk from the parking lot. It’s a good idea to check current trail conditions before visiting. Nearby JFK Overlook offers views of Greers Ferry Lake and the Little Red River. Cedar Beach Disc Golf Course, in turn, offers views of Sandy Beach and Greers Ferry Lake.

Local History and Culture

The Heber Springs Commercial Historic District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The district is significant for architecture, commerce, community planning and development, and entertainment and recreation. In downtown Heber Springs, Spring Park welcomes visitors year-round and features seven mineral springs.

Bottles from the Heber Springs Bottling Company are on display at the Cleburne County Historical Society. The company was founded in Heber Springs around 1910. Heber Springs is also home to several murals. The Winkley Bridge was built in 1912 and used until 1972; afterward, it was closed to traffic, except for pedestrians. Today, the bridge is no longer intact.

Performances and events can also factor into your travel plans. Visitors can enjoy dramatic performances at the Gem Theater year-round; check current show dates before your trip. The Old Soldiers Reunion has been held annually in the region since 1887, so it’s worth checking the current dates. The Arts Council Gallery on Main Street displays local art; check in advance to see what’s currently on exhibit. Ruland Junction’s train collection brings together nearly a century of shared passion for collecting trains. If you plan to visit, check current access arrangements.

Getting Your Bearings

Nearby Carl Garner Visitor Center offers directions, historical information about Greers Ferry Dam and guidance on other attractions in the region. Check the latest visitor information beforehand if you plan to use the center to help with your planning.

Nearby, visitors can watch trumpeter swans from designated parking areas. This viewing opportunity depends on agreements with private landowners and seasonal conditions. Keep these limitations in mind when planning your visit.

Discover more destinations: Ida.

For the regional travel overview: Cleburne County.