Arkansas State Parks and the USDA Forest Service have entered into a cooperative operating agreement to support continued public access and operations at Blanchard Springs Caverns and Recreation Area during the 2026 season.
Under this 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.
The partnership reflects a shared commitment to preserving one of Arkansas' most iconic natural resources while ensuring visitors continue to experience the beauty and educational value of Blanchard Springs Caverns during a period of transition and improvement.
"This agreement allows us to work alongside the Forest Service to maintain access to this incredible destination while planning for its future," said ADPHT Secretary Shea Lewis. "Blanchard Springs is a treasured part of Arkansas' outdoor recreation landscape, and we are proud to support its continued operation."
As part of the 2026 operating season:
- Guided cavern tours will begin on May 1, 2026, and will be reservable on-line at https://www.recreation.gov/ticket/facility/233266
- The Dripstone Tour reservations will be available beginning on April 5th for booking tours beginning on May 1st and beyond. Additional tours will be added as demand and staffing levels dictate.
- The Discovery Trail Tours will be available for reservations after Memorial Day
- Group camp sites and reservable day-use facilities will be open for reservations on recreation.gov beginning on April 5th to book for May 1st and beyond. Individual campsites will not have advance reservations available and will be offered on a first-come-first-serve basis beginning on May 1st.
- The Visitor Center facility and caverns will be closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Additionally, under the cooperative agreement:
- Arkansas State Parks will provide seasonal staffing, including cavern guides, transportation drivers, ticketing personnel, and maintenance support.
- The USDA Forest Service will continue to oversee facilities and provide operational leadership.
This cooperative effort comes as Blanchard Springs Caverns prepares for significant upgrades and long-term improvements. Following the 2026 operating season, the site will undergo planned renovations and rebranding efforts.
Originally opened in the 1970s, this marks the first major construction and modernization project in the caverns' history.
A grand reopening is anticipated in 2028, unveiling updated infrastructure, enhanced visitor experiences, and renewed interpretation of the site's natural and cultural significance.
Blanchard Springs Caverns remains one of the premier cave systems in the United States, drawing visitors from across the country to experience its stunning formations and guided tours.
Arkansas State Parks: Arkansas State Parks is a division of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism. Arkansas state parks and museums cover 55,006 acres of forest, wetlands, fish and wildlife habitat, outdoor recreation facilities, and unique historic and cultural resources. Established in 1923, Arkansas State Parks preserve special places for future generations, provide quality recreation and education opportunities, enhance the state's economy through tourism and provide leadership in resource conservation. Connect with ASP on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, and visit ArkansasStateParks.com and ArkansasStateParks.com/media to learn more.
Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism: The Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism protects and promotes our state's natural, cultural and historic assets, contributing to a thriving economy and high quality of life. It is made up of three divisions: Arkansas State Parks, Arkansas Heritage and Arkansas Tourism.