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Black Bass Lake: A Tranquil Ozark Retreat

Discover a peaceful retreat at Black Bass Lake in Eureka Springs: Hike scenic trails, fish in tranquil waters, and explore Ozark history.

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Black Bass Lake in Eureka Springs is a serene 60-acre park offering fishing, hiking, and a glimpse into local history. Once a vital water source for the town, it now provides a peaceful escape with scenic trails and a historic dam.

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.
  • Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at the designated picnic area.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for hiking or biking the trails around the lake.
  • A valid Arkansas fishing license is required for those 16 and older who plan to fish.
  • Visit in the spring or summer to see wildflowers in bloom along the trails.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From downtown Eureka Springs, head west on Highway 62/W Van Buren. Turn left onto Oil Spring Road. Follow Oil Spring Road down the hill to Black Bass Lake. General parking is available by the kiosk and across the bridge. Parking is free.

  • Trolley

    Eureka Springs offers trolley services that may provide access to areas near Black Bass Lake. Check the Eureka Springs Transit website or call for route information and schedules. 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

    Ride-sharing services like Uber are available in Eureka Springs. A ride from downtown Eureka Springs to Black Bass Lake will cost approximately $10-$20, depending on demand and specific location.

Unlock the Best of Black Bass Lake

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Discover more about Black Bass Lake

Black Bass Lake, nestled in the Ozark Mountains near Eureka Springs, Arkansas, offers a tranquil escape into nature and a step back in time. This 60-acre park, once a vital water reservoir for Eureka Springs, now serves as a peaceful retreat for locals and tourists alike. Created in 1894, the lake was formed by an earthen and cut stone dam, one of the oldest still standing in the Ozarks. The dam was built to provide a reliable water source for the town, especially after a series of devastating fires highlighted the need for a closer water supply. Although the city now receives its water from Beaver Lake, Black Bass Lake remains a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of early Eureka Springs residents. Today, visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities at Black Bass Lake. Anglers can try their luck at catching black bass, bluegill, and other fish in the clear waters. Hiking and biking enthusiasts can explore the network of easy to moderate trails that loop around the lake, including the Standing Rock Trail, Bluff Trail, and Sycamore Spring Trail. These trails offer scenic overlooks, diverse wildlife sightings, and access to a non-motorized boat launch and picnic area. The park's trails wind through lush surroundings, showcasing the area's natural beauty. Standing Rock Trail passes the vertical sandstone formation for which it's named. The Bluff Trail features a unique limestone outcropping and panoramic views of the lake. Sycamore Spring Trail crosses Sycamore Spring, one of several springs that feed the lake. The historic dam itself is a sight to behold, its worn stone facade a reminder of the area's rich history.

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