Blanchard Springs Caverns
1 /
What to know
2026 Season
Arkansas State Parks and the Ozark-St.Francis National Forests have entered into a cooperative operating agreement to support continued public access and operations at Blanchard Springs Caverns and Recreation Area during the 2026 season.
Under this agreement, Arkansas State Parks will assist with seasonal operations at Blanchard Springs Caverns, including guided caverns tours, with tours scheduled to begin on May 1st, 2026, and operate through the end of October.
As part of the 2026 operating season:
- Guided cavern tours will begin on May 1st, 2026, and will be reservable on-line at https://www.recreation.gov/ticket/facility/233266
- The Dripstone Tour reservations are available now for booking tours starting May 1st and beyond. Additional tours will be added as demand and staffing levels dictate.
- The Discovery Trail Tours will be available for reservations after Memorial Day.
- Group camp sites and reservable day-use facilities are now open for reservations on recreation.gov to book for May 1st and beyond. Individual campsites will not have advance reservations available and will be offered on a first-come-first-serve basis.
- The Visitor Center facility and caverns will be closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Additionally, under the cooperative agreement:
- Arkansas State Parks will provide seasonal staffing, including cavern guides, transportation drivers, ticketing personnel, and maintenance support.
- The Ozark-St.Francis National Forests will continue to oversee facilities and provide operational leadership.
This cooperative effort comes as Blanchard Springs Caverns prepares for significant upgrades and long-term improvements. Following the 2026 operating season, the site will undergo planned renovations and rebranding efforts.
Originally opened in the 1970s, this marks the first major construction and modernization project in the caverns’ history.
A grand reopening is anticipated in 2028, unveiling updated infrastructure, enhanced visitor experiences, and renewed interpretation of the site’s natural and cultural significance.
Blanchard Springs Caverns remains one of the premier cave systems in the United States, drawing visitors from across the country to experience its stunning formations and guided tours.