Magness ArkansasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Magness, Arkansas.
1. Magness Lake
SWAN WATCHING HAVEN
Magness Lake is a 30-acre oxbow lake off the Little Red River that has become famous as the wintering home for Trumpeter Swans. The majestic waterfowl arrive in mid-November and stay until late February, with numbers increasing to over 100 in recent years. Visitors can view the swans from a public road with parking space available, with late afternoons offering the best opportunity to see these magnificent birds.
2. Mark Martin Museum
NASCAR LEGEND TRIBUTE
The Mark Martin Museum celebrates the career of NASCAR racing legend and Batesville native Mark Martin. The museum displays Martin's race cars, trophies, and memorabilia from his illustrious racing career. Visitors can get an up-close look at the history of one of Arkansas's most successful professional athletes.
3. Batesville Community Center & Aquatics Park
FAMILY RECREATION COMPLEX
Batesville Community Center & Aquatics Park offers a comprehensive recreational facility for visitors of all ages. The aquatics park features water slides, swimming pools, and splash areas perfect for cooling off during hot Arkansas summers. The community center includes fitness facilities, sports courts, and event spaces that serve the local community and visitors alike.
4. Oneal Outfitters
RIVER ADVENTURE SPECIALISTS
Oneal Outfitters provides boat rentals and guided river experiences in the Magness area. Their knowledgeable staff helps visitors explore the scenic waterways of Arkansas with professionally maintained equipment. Adventure seekers can enjoy fishing, floating, and wildlife viewing on the nearby rivers and lakes.
5. Collins Creek Cascade
SCENIC NATURAL WATERFALL
Collins Creek Cascade is a popular natural attraction featuring a series of small waterfalls and crystal-clear pools. The stream is fed by cold water released from Greers Ferry Dam, creating a unique ecosystem and ideal trout habitat. Visitors can enjoy hiking, photography, and fishing along the picturesque cascade trail.
6. Trumpeter Swan Viewing on Magness Lake
MAJESTIC BIRD WATCHING
Trumpeter Swan Viewing on Magness Lake offers a unique wildlife observation experience where visitors can watch these rare birds in their winter habitat. The swans traditionally arrive around mid-November and stay until late February, with feeding time in late afternoon providing the best viewing opportunities. Beyond the trumpeter swans, visitors may also spot Canada geese, mallards, and domestic geese that have adopted this small lake.
7. Old Independence Regional Museum
REGIONAL HISTORY SHOWCASE
Old Independence Regional Museum preserves and presents the rich cultural heritage of Independence County and the surrounding areas. The museum features extensive exhibits on pioneer life, Native American history, and the development of the region from territorial days through modern times. Interactive displays and regular special events make history come alive for visitors of all ages.
8. Greers Ferry Lake
PRISTINE MOUNTAIN RESERVOIR
Greers Ferry Lake is a 40,000-acre reservoir renowned for its crystal-clear waters and spectacular mountain scenery. The lake offers exceptional opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, and water sports throughout the year. Surrounding the lake are numerous recreation areas with campgrounds, hiking trails, and picnic facilities managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
9. Ozark Folk Center State Park
LIVING CRAFT VILLAGE
Ozark Folk Center State Park preserves the traditional crafts, music, and culture of the Ozark Mountains. The craft village features dozens of artisans demonstrating traditional skills like blacksmithing, pottery, quilting, and basketry. Visitors can enjoy live folk music performances, explore the heritage herb garden, and participate in hands-on workshops throughout the season.
10. Kenda Drive-In Theater
NOSTALGIC CINEMA EXPERIENCE
Kenda Drive-In Theater offers a nostalgic movie-watching experience under the stars in one of Arkansas's few remaining drive-in theaters. The family-owned theater has been operating since 1966, maintaining its vintage charm while updating to digital projection and modern amenities. Moviegoers can enjoy current films from the comfort of their vehicles while savoring classic concession treats.
11. Blanchard Springs Caverns
UNDERGROUND NATURAL WONDER
Blanchard Springs Caverns is a spectacular three-level cave system nestled in the Ozark National Forest. Guided tours take visitors through massive chambers adorned with stunning formations including stalactites, stalagmites, columns, and flowstones. The surrounding recreation area features hiking trails, a natural spring, and a mirror-like pond perfect for photography.
12. White River
PREMIER TROUT FISHING
The White River flows through Magness and nearby communities, offering world-class trout fishing and scenic float trips. The cold tailwaters below Bull Shoals Dam create ideal conditions for trophy brown and rainbow trout throughout the year. Numerous outfitters provide guided fishing experiences, boat rentals, and riverside accommodations for anglers and nature enthusiasts.
13. Main Street Batesville
HISTORIC DOWNTOWN DISTRICT
Main Street Batesville features a charming collection of historic buildings housing boutiques, restaurants, and cultural venues. The revitalized downtown district hosts regular events including farmers markets, concerts, and seasonal festivals throughout the year. Visitors can explore local shops offering antiques, crafts, specialty foods, and unique Arkansas-made products while enjoying the area's small-town atmosphere.
14. Josephine Tussaud Wax Museum
LIFELIKE HISTORICAL FIGURES
Josephine Tussaud Wax Museum showcases remarkably realistic wax figures of historical personalities, celebrities, and fictional characters. The museum features over 100 life-sized figures arranged in themed settings with detailed costumes and props. Visitors can pose alongside their favorite figures while learning about the artistic process behind creating these intricate wax sculptures.
15. Batesville Farmers Market
LOCAL PRODUCE SHOWCASE
Batesville Farmers Market brings together local growers, artisans, and food producers in a vibrant community marketplace. Visitors can browse seasonal fruits and vegetables, handcrafted goods, baked treats, and specialty foods produced in the region. The market creates a festive atmosphere with live music, cooking demonstrations, and family-friendly activities during its regular operating hours.