Ozark Folk Center State Park in Mountain View, Arkansas is a unique destination dedicated to preserving and celebrating the rich heritage of the Ozarks. From mid-April to late October, visitors can immerse themselves in the traditional crafts and music that define this remarkable region.
Experience traditional crafts at the craft village
The heart of the Ozark Folk Center lies in its Craft Village, where more than 20 artisans demonstrate their skills, produce handcrafted items, and sell their creations. Open Tuesday through Saturday during the season, the Craft Village offers a window into the past with its working demonstrations.
Visitors can watch artisans at work and purchase unique items such as flame-painted copper jewelry, leather purses, baskets, brooms, stained glass, ironwork, pottery, knives, weavings, quilts, woodcarvings, spun yarn, soap, and candles. Each piece is crafted with care and attention to detail, ensuring a one-of-a-kind purchase.
For a more immersive experience, the park offers workshops throughout the year. These workshops provide hands-on instruction and personal attention, allowing participants to learn skills such as basket weaving, pottery, and quilting. Registration for these workshops is available online, making it easy to plan your visit in advance.
Additionally, the Heritage Herb Garden within the park serves as a living classroom. Here, visitors can learn about old-time plants, medicinal herbs, native plants, and edible herbs. The garden hosts events celebrating both culinary and medicinal herbs in May and October, marking the perfect time to visit for those interested in herbal lore and uses.
Relish the sound of southern mountain music
Music is an integral part of the Ozark Folk Center experience. The sounds of fiddles, banjos, guitars, mandolins, dulcimers, and autoharps create the distinctive Southern mountain music that echoes through the park.
In the Craft Village, live music performances take place on the Blacksmith Stage throughout the day. These intimate performances by local musicians provide a delightful soundtrack as visitors explore the village. The melodies enhance the atmosphere and offer a genuine taste of local culture.
The Ozark Highlands Theater is another venue within the park that hosts live concerts and special events. With a seating capacity of 1,000, the theater brings legendary artists from various genres of Americana music to its stage. Workshops for musicians and dancers of all skill levels are also held, making this venue a hub for creativity and learning.
For those who can’t get enough of the Ozark sound, the park produces Ozark Highlands Radio, a syndicated program recorded on-site. This weekly show shares the music and stories of the Ozark region with listeners on public radio stations and platforms like Soundcloud and iTunes.
Stay comfortably at the cabins at dry creek
When planning a visit to the Ozark Folk Center State Park, accommodations at The Cabins at Dry Creek provide a comfortable and convenient stay. These beautiful cabins offer different room types to suit various needs and preferences.
Options include :
- King rooms
- ADA-compliant king rooms
- Family rooms with a queen bed and a bunk bed
- Double queen rooms
- Suites with a king bed, living area with a pull-out couch, sink, and microwave
- King deluxe rooms featuring an open-style bedroom living area, a pull-out couch, and a dining area with a sink, microwave, and utensils
Standard amenities in all rooms include a telephone, TV, wireless Internet, microwave, mini-refrigerator, iron and ironing board, hairdryer, and coffee pot. Large windows and glass doors open onto small porches or decks, most with scenic wooded views.
Additionally, guests can enjoy the game room and outdoor swimming pool (available during summer months). The Cabin Office offers discounted tickets for the Craft Village and Ozark music events, making it easy to enjoy all the park has to offer.
Delight in southern cuisine at local eateries
A visit to the Ozark Folk Center isn’t complete without sampling the local cuisine. The Skillet Restaurant serves up delicious Southern cooking with varied hours throughout the week. From classic Southern breakfasts to hearty dinners, the restaurant provides satisfying meals to fuel your explorations.
Another on-site dining option is Heirlooms Kitchens, a café in the Craft Village that offers delectable food options, daily specials, and freshly baked goods. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick snack or a full meal, the café’s offerings are sure to please any palate.
Noteworthy facilities and additional information
The Ozark Folk Center also features a conference center with facilities for unique and memorable meetings. It’s a great venue for business retreats, family reunions, and other gatherings. The park’s combination of cultural experiences and modern amenities make it an ideal choice for events of all kinds.
For those traveling with pets, the park offers designated dog-friendly cabins available for an additional charge. However, guests must bring a kennel and current shot records, and cats are not allowed in these accommodations.
Here are the operational details for the various facilities :
| Facility | Operating Hours | Additional Information |
|---|---|---|
| Craft Village | Tuesday – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Open mid-April to late October |
| Blacksmith Stage (Live Music) | Tuesday – Saturday, throughout the day | Within Craft Village |
| Cabins at Dry Creek | Open daily, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Year-round, extended hours during special events |
| Skillet Restaurant | Sunday, Wednesday, Thursday, 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.; Friday – Saturday, 8 a.m. – 7 p.m. | Closed Mondays and Tuesdays |
| Gift Shop | Tuesday – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 5 :30 p.m. | Within Craft Village |
| Ozark Highlands Music Theater | Open for special events only | – |
| Cabins at Dry Creek Pool | Memorial Day – Labor Day | Closed New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving Day & noon Christmas Eve through Christmas Day |
With its rich cultural offerings, comfortable accommodations, and delightful dining options, the Ozark Folk Center State Park is a perfect destination for anyone looking to experience the authentic charm of the Ozarks. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a music lover, or simply seeking a relaxing getaway, this park has something for everyone.
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