Outdoor writer and photographer Corbet Deary is featured regularly in The Sentinel-Record. Today, Deary writes about Blanchard Springs Recreation Area.
I recently covered the Ozark Folk Center, located just outside the town of Mountain View. Well, opportunities abound in this particular section of the state for outdoor enthusiasts.
That in mind, I decided to cover yet another destination that is located close to the quaint Ozark town. In fact, those who decide to take advantage of the amenities at Blanchard Springs Recreation Area can likely spend a day or two at the facility prior to ever striking out and experiencing what north-central Arkansas has to offer.
I would suspect Blanchard Springs Recreation Area is most known for the impressive cave system that is accessible from the road leading to the campgrounds. Blanchard Caverns is open to the public. And those choosing to embark upon a guided tour through an intriguing underground world are in for an experience unsurpassed.
In fact, one is privy to various tours, each varying from the others in intensity and difficulty levels.
The Dripstone tour leads the inquisitive within site of an array of formations. Those embarking upon this particular hike are apt to see a few critters depending on such a specific environment to survive, such as cave crickets and salamanders. This route is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. However, strong assistance will be needed on occasion along the way.
The Discovery Trail is noticeably more demanding than the aforementioned, as one must traverse occasional flights of stairs. This route makes its way much deeper into the huge cavern and alongside an underground stream. Although the route is somewhat more strenuous, those who are physically capable of embarking upon the journey are in for a wonderful adventure.
And now for my favorite route. Those taking a journey along the Wild Cave Tour will be provided with knee pads and a headlamp prior to the excursion. The tour makes its way through undeveloped sections of the cave. In turn, one will be prepared to crawl for distances and make slight climbs and descents.
Those embarking upon this particular journey should be in good physical condition and prepared to get dirty. So wear your boots and avoid wearing your Sunday go-to-meeting clothes. One should also be aware that they will be expected to traverse some fairly tight areas.
Even those who are not interested in diving into the spelunking world will find plenty to keep them occupied at Blanchard Springs Recreation Area. Hiking enthusiasts will be glad to know that 15 miles of trail awaits them. That's right, the Sylamore Trail system runs right through the park, and is a popular resting point for those traversing the entire trail system.
Day hikers can embark upon a walk along the Sylamore Trail, from Blanchard Springs. Those heading in a westward direction can travel 5 miles to Gunner Pool Recreation Area, where they can take a rest prior to heading back to their beginning point. Or they can choose to walk yet another 5 miles to Barkshed Recreation Area.
Those heading east on the trail, from Blanchard Springs, can look forward to a pleasant 5-mile walk to the trailhead near the Allison community. Either direction lends to beautiful scenery, as the trail often makes its way along a limestone shelf overlooking the North Sylamore Creek. The path also makes its way alongside an old home place and through impressive boulder fields.
Syllamo Mountain Biking Trail is also close to the recreation area. The trail system consists of interconnecting loops making their way through typical Ozark Mountain terrain.
I actually rode the trail several years ago, shortly after it was open to the public. Although unsure of how much path is presently open to the public, I can recall 21 miles during my excursion.
The route was quite impressive and had something to offer to all skill levels. There were sections I found exciting, while others were far too technical for me to tackle. I did, however, enjoy watching others successfully maneuver steep, sharp switchbacks and skillfully ride down a steep set of stairs built of native rocks. I can recall a couple of spectacular views of the nearby White River and North Sylamore Creek drainage areas from the trail system, as well.
Now let's talk about a few of the perks awaiting those who prefer not leaving the recreation area. Well, we can start with playing in North Sylamore Creek. The crystal-clear stream cuts its way through the heart of the facility and lends to ample opportunities for one to beat the sultry summer heat. In fact, a swimming area has been designated at the campground.
I suppose there are also a few small fish awaiting those who plan to make a cast or two. This section of the creek obviously sees its fair share of fishing pressure. However, the Sylamore provides a great habitat for and is bountiful with smallmouth bass. Those with a passion for fishing will likely also appreciate the fact that a "rainbow trout haven" is located on the premises. Mirror Lake consists of three acres and is managed as a trout fishery. The reservoir is fed by 58-degree waters flowing from the Blanchard Springs Caverns.
One doesn't have to have a fancy for fishing, however, to appreciate the impoundment, as a steady flow of water pouring over the large dam produces an impressive waterfall. In fact, the entire stream below the dam is scenic.
And how about the stream feeding the lake? Well, a trail leads within a hundred feet or so of the exact location from where the water source leaves the cave system.
The scene is impressive, to say the least, as the water pours out of the base of the mountainside, producing a small waterfall prior to cutting its way through a drainage area and into the nearby reservoir.
Of course, one might consider the recreation area for day-use only, but the facility also sports 32 campsites. Each site is equipped with grills, tables, lantern poles, and tent pads, but do not have electrical hookups.
RV enthusiasts regularly pull their campers down the steep and winding grade leading to the recreation area, but I would suggest contacting the Visitor Information Center at 870-757-2211 prior to choosing this destination, to ensure that there are no length regulations. However, those who do visit this destination will be privy to restrooms with hot showers and a beautiful setting.
Blanchard Springs Recreation Area is certainly a jewel situated in the heart of the Ozark National Forest. And although I recently visited the destination, I am already anticipating my next opportunity to return to this special spot situated on the banks of the Crystal Clear creek referred to as the Sylamore.
To get to the destination from Hot Springs, take Highway 70 east to the Interstate 30 intersection and head east. Go 18 miles and take Exit 129 onto I-430 north. Travel 13 miles and take Exit 138 on the left and merge onto I-40 west.
Go 23 miles and take Exit 125 onto Highway 65 north. Travel 57 miles and take a right onto Oak Street. Travel 900 feet and take a right onto Main Street. Go 350 feet and turn left onto Walnut Street.
Travel 21 miles and take a left onto Oak Grove Loop. Go 1.3 miles and take a left onto Clearwater Road. Travel 3.9 miles and turn right onto Roasting Ear Road. Go 1.5 miles and turn right onto Highway 14. Remain on Highway 14 for 1.5 miles and turn left onto County Road 64. Travel for 1.6 miles and take a right onto Sylamore Scenic Byway. Travel for a half mile and the destination's entrance will be on the right.
Local on 07/13/2018