Nestled in the heart of the Ozarks, Arkansas Highway 23W is a short but scenic spur that offers travelers a peaceful three-mile detour through one of the Natural State’s hidden gems — Withrow Springs State Park. On this drive, we head north from the junction with AR-23 just north of Huntsville, winding our way into the cool, forested landscape that defines the park.
As we turn off AR-23 and begin north on AR-23W, the road immediately drops us into the lush greenery of Withrow Springs State Park. Towering hardwoods and rocky bluffs close in around the pavement, and it doesn’t take long before we reach the namesake Withrow Spring itself — a cool, clear natural spring nestled near a picnic area and a short hiking trail. This is a great place to pause and take in the tranquil surroundings, as the spring feeds a small stream that trickles gently through the shaded parklands.
Continuing along the highway, we pass the park’s campground and main recreation area. Here, visitors can find everything from scenic trails to tennis courts and even a seasonal swimming pool. AR-23W continues northward in a gentle climb, with occasional peeks through the trees offering glimpses of the ridges that define this part of the Ozark Plateau. As we leave the state park boundary, the landscape transitions slightly—less managed and a bit more rural. We pass a scattering of private homes and farms tucked back into the woods, and intersect a few county roads that branch off into the surrounding hills.
Before long, we reach the north end of AR-23W, where the route rejoins Arkansas Highway 23 in the tiny community of Forum. This point marks the end of our brief journey, but it also serves as a launching point for more scenic drives deeper into the Ozarks. Heading north on AR-23 from Forum takes you through the McIlroy Wildlife Management Area and eventually into the tourist-friendly mountain town of Eureka Springs. To the south, AR-23 drops back toward Huntsville and ultimately joins with US-412, a major east-west corridor through northern Arkansas.
Though only three miles in length, Arkansas Highway 23W is more than just a park road—it’s a snapshot of the kind of natural beauty Arkansas is known for. Whether you’re visiting Withrow Springs State Park for the day or just taking the long way around on your drive through Madison County, this short spur offers a welcome escape into shaded valleys, gentle curves, and the kind of roadside charm that’s best experienced with the windows down.
🗺️ Route Map
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