Why Arkansas’s New State Park Will be One of the Nation’s Most Unique Destinations

Arkansas is known for its natural beauty, and soon there will be another State Park to showcase it. Governor Sanders made the big announcement yesterday.

The Governor signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the U.S. Park Service that will now allow the state of Arkansas to take over management of the Blanchard Springs Caverns Complex. Once the transition is complete, the area will become Blanchard Springs State Park. This will expand the public's access to one of the state's most treasured outdoor destinations.

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Expanded Recreation Along the White River in Arkansas

In addition to the beautiful caverns, the new state park will also offer access to nearby White River recreation areas, opening the door for even more outdoor activities like biking, hiking, swimming, and more, according to the governor.

READ MORE: Arkansas Lakes: Greer's Ferry Named The Prettiest in The State 

A One-of-a-Kind Natural Treasure in Arkansas

The Blanchard Springs Caverns Complex features an incredible eight-and-a-half miles of explored underground passages and is home to the only Forest Service Major Visitor Center in Arkansas. Above ground, visitors can enjoy a campground, swim beach, picnic areas, and scenic trails.

Did you know that Blanchard Springs is a "living” cave? This means the cave is still actively forming, with water still flowing and ongoing mineral growth.

Most of the federally managed caves in the country are very remote and not easily accessible to the public. The Blanchard Springs Caverns also has one of the largest flowstones in the nation, once again setting Arkansas apart from the others and highlighting its nickname of truly being 'The Natural State'.