Mineral springs and peaceful nature still define Heber Springs
Cleburne County’s Heber Springs started out as the Sugar Loaf health resort in the mid-1800s, attracting visitors for the health benefits of its mineral springs. Those springs still pour from water fountains in Spring Park, the city’s main green space. Some things have changed since the 19th century, but the city still draws residents looking for peace and restoration. They find it in Greer Ferry Lake, the Little Red River, and trails that run through dense forests, all of which flank the community. “You go there to get away from the city, to wind down and be with nature,” says Andrew Gresham, a Realtor with Keller Williams Realty who sells throughout the Little Rock area.
Homes range from fixer-uppers to lakeside luxury
Homes are primarily Minimal Traditional, ranch-style and bungalows, with three or four bedrooms. They sit along quiet residential streets on small grass lawns studded with mature trees. Prices range from $110,000 to about $400,000. Older fixer-uppers are often priced between $60,000 and $100,000. Large brick New Traditional homes on Greers Ferry Lake usually cost around $1 million.
All public schools in Heber Springs earn B-range ratings
Children attend Heber Springs Elementary, which has a B rating on Niche; B-plus-rated Heber Springs Middle and B-minus-rated Heber Springs High. All three schools are within the Heber Springs Schools district, which has a B rating. Heber Springs High requires students to complete 75 community service hours before graduation.
Sandy Beach and Spring Park offer outdoor recreation
One of the main draws to the area is outdoor recreation. Sandy Beach and Heber Springs Marina offer access to Greers Ferry Lake. The Little Red River, on the city’s northeast side, is a go-to for trout fishing. “I own a house on the river, and we fish there all the time,” Gresham says. “Or I just sit on the back deck and watch the river otters, hawks, bald eagles and cranes.” Bridal Veil Falls, a 50-foot waterfall just south of the city, is surrounded by a short, moderately challenging trail. Spring Park is the city’s main green space and is still home to its namesake’s mineral springs. It’s also popular for its walking paths, playground, skate park and amphitheater.
Restaurants, groceries and health care are close to home
The city’s small downtown district is lined with historic buildings housing locally-owned boutiques, bakeries, coffee shops and other small businesses. Popular local restaurants include Zeke and Lizzy’s, which serves authentic Louisiana-style dishes, and Brothers BBQ, loved for its ribs, pulled pork and friendly service. Heber Springs is a dry county, so restaurants like Café Klaser feature memberships to clubs within them that serve alcohol. Otherwise, “it’s 45 miles to buy adult beverages,” Gresham says. “If you want it, come into town with it or go to one of the restaurants.” Residents pick up groceries at Harps off Main Street and essentials at Walmart off Highway 25B. The Baptist Health Medical Center’s Heber Springs campus is on the city’s east side and has an emergency room.
Residents gather for annual holiday events
The city celebrates the Fourth of July with FreedomFest, a two-part event that features a 5K in the morning and fireworks at Sandy Beach once the sun sets. In December, the Heber Springs Lighted Christmas Parade and Courthouse Lighting features floats, classic cars and an appearance by Santa.
Travel options include major roads and a private-use airport
Due to the lack of public transportation, the city is very car dependent. Several major thoroughfares, including State Highway 25B and State Highway 110, run through the city and connect to nearby cities. Heber Springs Municipal Airport is on the city’s northeast side and reserved for private planes.
Climate includes long warm seasons and potential for flooding
The city is hot and humid between May and October, with temperatures in the ‘80s and ‘90s. Fall and winter temperatures are around 50 or 60 degrees. Due to its proximity to water, flooding is a possibility.
