Arkansas Highway 23: Eureka Springs to Withrow Springs State Park

Travel 20 scenic miles through the heart of the Ozarks as we head south along Arkansas Highway 23 from the eclectic town of Eureka Springs to the peaceful trails of Withrow Springs State Park. This route is a favorite among motorcyclists and road trip enthusiasts for good reason — it winds through some of the most captivating highland terrain in the northern part of the state, with dramatic curves, elevation changes, and plenty of reasons to slow down and explore.

We begin our journey at the junction of U.S. Highway 62 in Eureka Springs, a Victorian mountain town known for its steep hillsides, winding streets, and well-preserved historic architecture. As we turn south onto Highway 23, we’re quickly surrounded by a canopy of hardwood forest — especially brilliant in the fall — and begin to leave the hustle of town behind. About 7 miles south of Eureka Springs, we pass by the entrance to Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge, a major roadside attraction and sanctuary for big cats like tigers, lions, and leopards. This is a great optional stop, especially for families or wildlife enthusiasts.

Just past Turpentine Creek, we enter the McIlroy Madison County Wildlife Management Area, part of Arkansas’s vast network of public lands. This section of the route is deeply wooded, offering shaded roadways, spring-fed creeks, and occasional glimpses of wildlife. The road curves gently through the hills, passing scenic pull-offs and hidden trailheads popular with locals. A few small homesteads and farms break up the wilderness before we reach the rural community of Forum, a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it crossroads anchored by the junction with Arkansas Highway 127.

Shortly after Forum, we make a right turn onto Arkansas Highway 23W, a short spur that leads directly into Withrow Springs State Park. Nestled among limestone bluffs and hardwood forest, Withrow Springs is a quiet destination for camping, hiking, and kayaking. A standout feature of the park is the scenic War Eagle Creek, which cuts through the valley and provides excellent opportunities for floating or fishing. We end our journey in the park’s main parking area, near the trail to the namesake springs — a natural spring flowing out of the hillside that was once a favored spot for early settlers.

Whether you’re chasing curves on a motorcycle, looking for a weekend camping getaway, or just enjoying the winding Ozark backroads, this stretch of AR-23 offers a perfect combination of charm, scenery, and serenity. It’s a lesser-known gem that connects one of Arkansas’s most unique towns with one of its most underappreciated state parks.