Blanchard Springs Caverns near Fifty-Six will close for the season December 1, 2026, giving visitors a few more weeks to explore one of Arkansas’ most famous underground attractions.
Arkansas State Parks is encouraging visitors to plan a trip to the Stone County caverns before the season ends. Guided tours run through the end of November.
Hours and Tour Times
The visitor center and caverns are open Thursday through Monday, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. They are closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Tours start at 10 a.m., and the last tour of the day begins at 4 p.m. Additional Dripstone Tours may be added based on demand and staffing.
How to Book a Tour
Cavern tours are booked through Recreation.gov. The Dripstone Tour takes visitors along a paved trail past formations like the stalactites, stalagmites and columns that have made the caverns a Natural State landmark.
State Parks and Forest Service Partnership
Arkansas State Parks and the USDA Forest Service partnered to reopen Blanchard Springs Caverns for the 2026 season. Arkansas State Parks provides seasonal staff, including cavern guides, transportation drivers, ticketing staff and maintenance support. The Ozark-St. Francis National Forests oversee the facilities and provide operational leadership.
Renovations Planned After the 2026 Season
Major renovations and rebranding are planned at the caverns after the 2026 season, with a grand reopening expected in 2028.
Plan Your Visit
Blanchard Springs Caverns is located at 704 Blanchard Springs Road in Fifty-Six, in the Ozark-St. Francis National Forests north of Mountain View.
For more information, call 870-757-2211 or visit arkansas.com/state-parks.
SOURCE: Arkansas State Parks
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