Unfortunately, it’s easy to skip over Cave Springs while traversing the NWA area but today the tiny town is getting a well deserved shout out. The tiny town is home to the Illinois River Watershed Sanctuary, a preserved natural area that protects Cave Springs’ cave spring. Let’s take a detour and take the unbelievably pretty trail around this watershed.

Much like the town it's in, the Illinois River Watershed Sanctuary in Cave Springs is an underrated gem.
Google Maps
You can find this little park at 219 S Main St., Cave Springs, AR 72718.
The watershed has two trails that loop the lake, a rain garden, and green roof pavilion.
Courtesy of Author
It's the perfect place for a summer picnic, hike, and mini education session over low-impact agriculture and architecture.
Cave Springs hosts multiple events at the watershed but it's well worth a visit anytime of the year.
Facebook/City of Cave Springs
The next event will be the Bats & Bluegrass in August.

Related Stories

The One Arkansas Cave That’s Filled With Ancient Mysteries

The One Arkansas Cave That’s Filled With Ancient Mysteries

 There's An Incredible Meteor Shower Happening This Summer And Arkansas Has A Front Row Seat

There's An Incredible Meteor Shower Happening This Summer And Arkansas Has A Front Row Seat

 The Breathtaking Overlook In Arkansas That Lets You See For Miles And Miles

The Breathtaking Overlook In Arkansas That Lets You See For Miles And Miles
The Woodland Way Trail is a gorgeous 1/2-mile loop that will take you away from the hustle and bustle of NWA.
Courtesy of Author
Families will enjoy spotting wildlife along the hillside climb.
The trail will lead you around to a clearing on the other side of the lake that's perfect for a picnic stop.
Courtesy of Author
Sit under the pavilion, view the historic water wheel monument, swing under the tree, and fish at this lovely spot.
You'll also come across the Cave Spring cave spring.
Facebook/City of Cave Springs
The cave is closed off but the entrance can be viewed along a small bridge over the spillway. The cave is home the largest known population of the rare Ozark cavefish as well as a colony of endangered gray bats.
This is one hidden treasure that should not be looked over.
Courtesy of Author

You’ll definitely want to stop by the Cave Springs Coffee Company across the street to recharge after your hike. You can follow their Facebook Page for hours and specials.

Have you stopped by Cave Springs? Did you enjoy this trail? Share with us in the comments below!

You won’t be too far from the fairy tale park in Fayetteville.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles

Explore Arkansas