More than 500 feet deep and the centerpiece of a beautifully landscaped setting, Blue Spring is one of the most scenic historic sites in Arkansas. Open to the public during the spring, summer and fall months, the Blue Spring Heritage Center is located off U.S. Highway 62 West about six miles northwest of Eureka Springs.
Archaeological research indicates that a rock shelter overlooking the spring was inhabited by early Native American hunters thousands of years before Christ. They were probably attracted by the wildlife and clear, cool water of the natural spring. Blue Spring remained an important landmark for Native Americans for thousands of years and quickly attracted the attention of the pioneers who settled in the region during the early 1800s.
The spring was an important stopping point on the Cherokee Trail of Tears and many of the unfortunate people of that nation camped here on their way to the new “Indian Territory” of present-day Oklahoma. An interpretive sign near the spring explains its role in the great tragedy.
Blue Spring became the centerpiece of a small but prosperous community during the decades before the Civil War. The run from
the stream was used to power a mill that served residents from throughout the region. It was destroyed during the war, but rebuilt in later years. Exhibits explain its history and traces can still be seen.
Today, Blue Spring is the center of a beautiful heritage center that preserves the setting and provides interpretive information on its rich history. A visitor center provides exhibits and displays artifacts relating to the spring and
landscaped pathways lead through the grounds and around the clear, deep water. Interpretive signs provide information about
different events in the history of the spring as well as the unique natural setting itself. Blue Spring is particularly beautiful during the spring blooming season and fall leaf turn. There is also a monument to President Bill Clinton on the grounds.
To reach the park, just go west from Eureka Springs on U.S. 62 and watch for the signs. The entrance is about six miles from
downtown.
Quoted from exploresouthernhistory.com
What is it? A natural spring and a garden.
Where is it? 1537 County Road 210, Eureka Springs, Arkansas, USA
Why go here? See, touch and taste the fresh turquoise water pouring out of a mammoth spring.
