The Charming Arkansas Town Locals Hope Stays Off Tourists’ Radar

Often overlooked in favor of more tourist-driven destinations like Eureka Springs and Hot Springs, Heber Springs is a quiet town in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains. Home to the serene waters of Greers Ferry Lake and the sinuous banks of Little Red River, this hidden, charming town in Arkansas is a dream come true for nature lovers. Locals and visitors alike love Heber Springs for its beautiful, natural surroundings and peaceful, laid-back vibes, and you will, too, when you visit for the first time.

Hidden Charming Town in Arkansas

Heber Springs is often considered an underrated, hidden-gem town in Arkansas, tucked away in Cleburne County and serving as its county seat. In the mid-19th century, Heber Springs was founded as a health resort town and was known as "Sugar Loaf." Today, locals and visitors alike can enjoy outdoor recreation amidst beautiful scenery or stroll through its historic downtown. Heber Springs' population is around 7,000, and its residents can live a quiet, peaceful existence surrounded by nature, as it is home to Greers Ferry Lake, the Little Red River, and Sugarloaf Mountain.

Best Things to Do in This Quiet, Charming Town

Heber Springs is a nature-centric town offering an abundance of outdoor activities for all ages. Located in the heart of Heber Springs' downtown, its streets lined with boutiques, galleries, antique stores, restaurants, and cafes, lies Spring Park. This historic park is known for its seven mineral springs, which were once a major draw for tourists for their supposed healing properties. Today, this 40-acre park is a peaceful slice of nature for residents to spend time outside while kids expend their energy at the playground.

The town is also close to one of the state's largest lakes, Greers Ferry Lake. People come from all over the state to fish in and boat on its waters, as well as to camp close to shore. Swimming is also an option, especially from Sandy Beach. If you're interested in another fishing spot, head to the banks of Little Red River to cast a line — this river is known for its world-class trout fishing, having produced a world record for the largest trout at 40 lbs 4 oz. Exploring Heber Springs on foot along one of its many trails is another wonderful option, especially to the base of the summit of Sugarloaf Mountain.

Where to Stay and Eat in Heber Springs

Accommodations

A number of highly-rated vacation homes in Heber Springs, Arkansas, are available on Airbnb. Pictured above are the views and kayaks that can be enjoyed at Redwood Trail, a stunning modern cabin built right on the banks of the Little Red River. This two-bed, two-bath home can accommodate up to eight guests who want nothing more than to be surrounded by nature and have access to adventure just outside the home's doors. Another wonderful option is the Stoneflower Cottage, a unique historic A-frame home designed by E. Fay Jones, an apprentice of Frank Lloyd Wright. (Jones had also designed Thorncrown Chapel in Eureka Springs.) Situated on Eden Isle by Greer's Ferry Lake, this exceptional home offers luxurious comfort for up to five guests.

Dining

Your dining-out options in Heber Springs include many excellent restaurants. From the casual vibes and New Orleans-style fare of Zeke & Lizzy’s Seafood and Steakhouse to the comfort classics at both Angie's Hideaway and Peggy Sue's Place, you won't run out of places for a delicious meal.

From its beginnings as a resort town to today's status as a peaceful, quiet, and underrated community, Heber Springs has a whole lot to offer both residents and tourists. Whether you're passing through, taking a day trip, or spending the night, do yourself a favor and spend some time on the lake, along the banks of the river, or visiting the mineral springs of this quiet, charming town in Arkansas. Plan your own trip to Heber Springs, Arkansas, with Only In Your State’s AI-powered itinerary planner.