Arkansas State Parks and Forest Service Partner to Operate Blanchard Springs Caverns

The two agencies will work together to maintain public access and operations at the iconic natural attraction during a period of planned renovations and upgrades.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 5:50pm

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A highly stylized, geometric illustration depicting the grand, sweeping scale of the Blanchard Springs Caverns, with towering, streamlined forms and smooth, airbrushed gradients capturing the site's natural architecture and monumental presence.The cooperative agreement between Arkansas State Parks and the Forest Service will ensure continued public access to the stunning natural wonder of Blanchard Springs Caverns during a period of transition and improvement.Mountain View Today

Arkansas State Parks and the USDA Forest Service have entered into a cooperative agreement to support continued public access and operations at Blanchard Springs Caverns and Recreation Area during the 2026 season. Under the partnership, Arkansas State Parks will assist with seasonal operations, including guided caverns tours, while the site prepares for significant upgrades and long-term improvements that will culminate in a grand reopening in 2028.

Why it matters

Blanchard Springs Caverns is one of Arkansas' most iconic natural resources, drawing visitors from across the country to experience its stunning formations and guided tours. This partnership ensures the public can continue to access and enjoy the caverns during a period of transition, while also laying the groundwork for a modernized and enhanced visitor experience in the future.

The details

Under the cooperative agreement, Arkansas State Parks will assist with seasonal operations at Blanchard Springs Caverns, including guided caverns tours, with tours scheduled to begin on May 1, 2026, and operate through the end of October. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to preserving the caverns while planning for significant upgrades and long-term improvements, including updated infrastructure, enhanced visitor experiences, and renewed interpretation of the site's natural and cultural significance.

  • Blanchard Springs Caverns will undergo planned renovations and rebranding efforts following the 2026 operating season.
  • A grand reopening of the modernized Blanchard Springs Caverns is anticipated in 2028.

The players

Arkansas State Parks

A division of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism that manages and operates the state's network of parks and natural areas.

USDA Forest Service

A federal agency within the U.S. Department of Agriculture that manages and protects national forests and grasslands.

Shea Lewis

Secretary of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism.

Blanchard Springs Caverns

A premier cave system in the United States, located in the Ozark-St. Francis National Forest in Mountain View, Arkansas, and a popular destination for visitors.

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What they’re saying

“This agreement allows us to work alongside the Forest Service to maintain access to this incredible destination while planning for its future.”

— Shea Lewis, Secretary, Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism

What’s next

Following the 2026 operating season, Blanchard Springs Caverns will undergo planned renovations and rebranding efforts, with a grand reopening anticipated in 2028.

The takeaway

The partnership between Arkansas State Parks and the USDA Forest Service ensures the public can continue to access and enjoy the iconic Blanchard Springs Caverns during a period of transition, while also laying the groundwork for a modernized and enhanced visitor experience in the future.