Arkansas State Parks and the USDA Forest Service have announced a cooperative operating agreement to keep Blanchard Springs Caverns and Recreation Area open to the public during the 2026 season, with guided tours scheduled to begin May 1.
Under the agreement, Arkansas State Parks will assist with seasonal operations at the Stone County landmark, including guided cavern tours running through the end of October. The Visitor Center and caverns will be closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays throughout the season.
“This agreement allows us to work alongside the Forest Service to maintain access to this incredible destination while planning for its future,” said Shea Lewis, secretary of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism. “Blanchard Springs is a treasured part of Arkansas’ outdoor recreation landscape, and we are proud to support its continued operation.”
A Possible Future as a State Park
The 2026 operating agreement is the latest development in a longer story. When the memorandum of understanding was first announced in December 2025, Arkansas Outside reached out to Arkansas State Parks with questions about state funding for the project and whether the agency was pursuing enabling legislation that would formally convert Blanchard Springs into a state park.
April Kiser, deputy chief of communications for the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism, responded with this statement: “Monday’s MOU provides the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism and the Ozark-St. Francis National Forests the opportunity to begin working together to outline the next steps for establishing Blanchard Springs State Park. This agreement marks the start of the process, and details related to costs, operations, and logistics will be developed as we move forward. We will share more information as those details are finalized in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service.”
That response confirms that state park designation is at least part of the long-term vision, though no legislation or funding details have been made public. Arkansas Outside has also learned that staffing for Blanchard Springs is being drawn from existing state park facilities, raising questions about the impact on those parks during the 2026 season.
Other questions that haven’t been answered yet include follow-up to remarks by State Senator Missy Irvin who said the state parks would be managing other areas along Sylamore Creek, including Gunner Pool and Barkshed campgrounds. (read the announcement article)
How to Book Tours and Campsites
Reservations for the Dripstone Tour open April 5 at recreation.gov for tours beginning May 1 and later. Additional tours will be added as demand and staffing allow.
Discovery Trail Tours will become available for reservations after Memorial Day weekend.
Group campsites and reservable day-use facilities also open for booking April 5 at recreation.gov. Individual campsites will not require advance reservations and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis starting May 1.
What the Partnership Covers
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.
Looking Ahead: Major Renovations Planned
The 2026 season comes ahead of a significant chapter in the cavern’s history. Following the close of the season, the site will undergo planned renovations and rebranding efforts described as the first major construction and modernization project since the caverns originally opened in the 1970s.
A grand reopening is anticipated in 2028, with updated infrastructure, enhanced visitor experiences and new interpretation of the site’s natural and cultural history.
Blanchard Springs Caverns is considered one of the premier cave systems in the United States, drawing visitors from across the country to explore its striking formations and guided underground tours.
Guided tours at Blanchard Springs Caverns begin May 1, 2026. Book tickets at recreation.gov.
5 Responses
I am a cave guide and have 20 years experience in caving. I am willing to work at the park if you need experienced people!
Will the swim area be open this season? It’s my Daughter’s favorite place to swim.
Will the swim area be open this season? It my daughter’s favorite place to swim.
Why can we not get guard shack back up at the top and charge as they go in that would for sure bring the money in and even secure that the park is making money. Swimming , sight seeing , fishing or even day use an even the springs charge !!
Is camping available again this summer?
Are the swimming areas going to be open as well?