Springs and Public Gardens of the Ozarks
The Ozark region is an area of porous limestone, which means lots of ground water bubbling up as springs all around the region. Towns grew up around springs, as well as along rivers, and some communities created large public gardens and parks for rest and recreation. Here’s where you can find them. More detailed information can be found on the regional search pages.
Springfield, MO
Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park A botanical garden and a separate Japanese stroll garden. 2400 S. Scenic Ave, Springfield. 417-891-1515
Xeriscape Demonstration Garden Low water gardening. National Ave and Linwood St. 417-881-8909
Eureka Springs
Nearly 60 springs in town, many on public land. Our favorites:
Grotto Spring, on upper Spring St.
Harding and Sweet Springs, on Spring Street
Magnetic Spring. North end of town on Magnetic Dr.
Blue Spring Heritage Center Private spring park, open by admission. 1537 County Road 210, west of town. 479-253-9244
NW Arkansas
Bentonville Park Springs Park 18-acre park with springs. Located on Tiger Blvd.
Compton Gardens Garden/public park surrounding the Conference Center. 312 N. Main St. 479-254-3870.
Fayetteville Botanical Garden of the Ozarks 9 themed gardens on 86 acres, adjoining Lake Fayetteville. 4703 N. Crossover Rd. 479-750-2620 Fayetteville also has a number of park gardens throughout town.
Siloam Springs A one-time spa town, and Twin Springs Park downtown preserves part of the original springs.
