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Black Bass Lake: A Tranquil Retreat in Eureka Springs

Discover a peaceful retreat at Black Bass Lake in Eureka Springs: hiking, fishing, and historic charm await in the Ozark Mountains.

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Black Bass Lake, a 200-acre park in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, offers a serene escape with hiking trails, fishing, and a historic hand-built dam. Once a vital water source for the town, it's now a peaceful recreational area known for its natural beauty and abundant wildlife.

A brief summary to Black Bass Lake

  • Monday 8 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-5 pm
  • Friday 8 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Bring your camera to capture the scenic views of the lake, the historic dam, and the diverse wildlife.
  • Wear appropriate footwear for hiking, as some trails can be rocky or muddy, especially after rain.
  • Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the designated picnic areas within the park.
  • Consider visiting during the spring to witness the wildflowers in bloom and the waterfalls cascading from the springs.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From downtown Eureka Springs, head southwest on Highway 62/US-62 BUS. Turn left onto County Road 138/Oil Spring Rd. Continue on Oil Spring Rd until you reach Black Bass Lake Park. Parking is available near the kiosk and across the bridge. Parking is free.

  • Trolley

    Eureka Springs offers a trolley service with several routes around town. Check the Eureka Springs Transit Service for the most up-to-date route information and schedules to see if there is a route that will take you to Black Bass Lake or close by. An all-day ride pass is $6 per adult and $2 per child (ages 7 through 11). Parking for the trolley service is $5 per day.

  • Ride Share

    Utilize ride-sharing services like Uber or local taxis for direct transport from Eureka Springs to Black Bass Lake. Typical UberX rates from downtown Eureka Springs to destinations within the city range from $10-$20. Confirm the final fare and availability when booking.

Unlock the Best of Black Bass Lake

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Discover more about Black Bass Lake

Nestled in the Ozark Mountains, Black Bass Lake City Park provides a tranquil retreat just minutes from downtown Eureka Springs. Originally created in the 1890s as a reservoir to supply water to Eureka Springs, the lake played a crucial role in the town's early development. Today, it stands as a testament to both historical engineering and nature's reclamation, offering visitors a blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. The park's 3-mile trail system caters to various skill levels, from easy strolls along the shoreline to more challenging hikes with rewarding views. The Standing Rock Trail, named for a striking sandstone formation, and the Bluff Trail, featuring limestone outcroppings and scenic overlooks, are popular choices. The trails wind through diverse landscapes, including moss-lined paths, rocky bluffs, and wooded areas teeming with wildlife. The historic hand-cut stone dam, built in 1894, is a prominent feature of the park and one of the oldest standing dams in the Ozarks. Although the dam and spillway are not accessible, they offer excellent photo opportunities, especially during the wetter seasons when the spillway transforms into a sparkling cascade. Black Bass Lake is also a haven for anglers, living up to its name with ample opportunities for bass fishing. The 'no motor' lake provides a peaceful setting for fishing enthusiasts of all ages. Black Bass Lake's transformation from a vital water source to a beloved recreational area showcases the community's commitment to preserving its natural and historical treasures. Whether you're seeking a peaceful hike, a scenic picnic, or a chance to connect with nature, Black Bass Lake offers a refreshing escape in the heart of the Ozarks.

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