Top 10 things to do in Heber Springs, AR

Discover the charm of Heber Springs, Arkansas, nestled in the Ozark foothills and anchored by the stunning Greers Ferry Lake and the world-famous Little Red River. Here's your guide to the top 10 must-do adventures, with two luxurious vacation rental options shared below.

1. Greers Ferry Lake

Explore one of the cleanest lakes in the U.S. with over 40,000 acres for boating, paddleboarding, swimming, scuba diving, and cliff jumping Airbnb+10LinkedIn+10Somewhere In Arkansas+10.

2. Little Red River Trout Fishing

This cold-water river below the dam is a trout angler’s haven—the former 40‑lb record brown trout was caught here LinkedIn+1. Guided tours and river rentals are available early morning, often yield great hauls vacationrentalarkansas.com+1.

3. Sugarloaf Mountain Trail

A 1–1.6 mile hike up to sweeping 360° views—often referred to as an “island in the sky”—perfect for sunrise or sunset LinkedIn.

4. Sandy Beach & Dam Site Recreation Area

Enjoy clean, sandy beaches and cliffs for jumping—Dam Site tends to be less crowded and more scenic than boardwalk beaches Reddit+1.

5. Collins Creek Cascade & Bridal Veil Falls

Visit these twin waterfalls just below the Greers Ferry dam. Great for photography, light hiking, and a peaceful picnic Airbnb+9Somewhere In Arkansas+9Wikipedia+9.

6. William Carl Garner Visitor Center & JFK Overlook

Discover the history of the dam and local trout fishing legend at the center, then take in the views from the JFK Memorial Overlook, a tribute to his 1963 dedication visit Only In Arkansas.

7. Ruland Junction Toy Train Museum

A unique two‑story model train experience that’s fun for kids and adults alike. Memorabilia, layouts, and interactive exhibits Ivy VacationsSomewhere In Arkansas.

8. Historic Downtown & Spring Park District

Stroll around the commercial historic district, check out the fieldstone Band Shell, local shops, and the restored mural in the Cleburne County Historical Society museum Wikipedia+6Wikipedia+6Wikipedia+6.

9. Outdoors & Adventure Outfitters

Gear up at Sulphur Creek Outfitters, which rents kayaks, SUPs, bikes, and provides trail-running and climbing gear—ideal for active travelers Ivy Vacations.

10. Local Food & Markets

Sample Mexican flavors at Las Playitas, local favorites like Zeke & Lizzy’s and diners Tisha’s or Peggy Sue’s (check hours), and browse boutique shops like Aromatique Gift Shop or Ozark Country Market Reddit+1.

Where to Stay: Two Lakeside Luxury Rentals

Water Way Landing

This upscale Greers Ferry Lake home features private pool, poolside cabana, massive gas grill, and convenient boat parking or rentals nearby at Heber Springs Marina (~1.1 mi away). Sandy Beach is just a 5-minute drive across the cove Only In Arkansas+4vacationrentalarkansas.com+4LinkedIn+4.

Leprechaun Landing

Located inside the upscale trout-fishing resort on the Little Red River, this luxurious 5‑bedroom home sleeps up to 14. Amenities include private pool, spa, outdoor kitchen, fire pit, and pet‑friendly spaces in scenic Lindsey’s Resort Arkansas+2facebook.com+2.

Both homes are listed at ArkansasVacationRental.com, offering upscale comfort with direct access to lake and river adventures—ideal for families or groups seeking relaxation and exploration.

Crafted Itinerary Tip

• Day 1–2: Base yourself at Water Way Landing to soak up lake activities—boating, swimming, lounging by the pool, and a beach day.

• Days 3–4: Switch to Leprechaun Landing to experience Little Red River fishing, relaxing in a spa or outdoor kitchen setting.

• Interspersed: Fit in day hikes to Sugarloaf Mountain, waterfall strolls at Collins Creek and Bridal Veil, a museum visit downtown, and a scenic overlook sunset at JFK Park.

Why Heber Springs Makes the Perfect Getaway

This hidden gem combines pristine water fun, scenic hiking, waterfall photo ops, hometown hospitality, and serene stays by the lake or river. Whether you're chasing trout, chasing views, or simply relaxing with a margarita at sunset—Heber Springs delivers charm and calm.

If you'd like help planning your route, dining recommendations, or which rental fits your trip best, I’d love to help!