Eureka Springs to Clarksville Road Trip Guide

This 350-mile journey from Eureka Springs, Arkansas to Clarksville, Tennessee crosses the Ozark Plateau, the Arkansas River Valley, and the Western Highland Rim. The route primarily follows US-62 and I-40, with a total driving time of approximately 5.5 to 6 hours. A little-known fact: the stretch of US-62 between Eureka Springs and Berryville was once part of the Trail of Tears, and you'll cross the historic Boston Mountains, a deeply dissected plateau known for its steep grades and winding curves. This is not a straight interstate blast but a scenic corridor with diverse terrain.

Planning stops carefully transforms the drive from a mere transit into a discovery of Ozark folklore, Civil War history, and Southern Appalachian ecology. For advice on finding off-the-beaten-path experiences, refer to how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities. The best stops Eureka Springs, AR to Clarksville, TN are those that break the highway monotony with river hikes, local diners, and small-town museums.

Route Snapshot

The most fuel-efficient path is US-62 east from Eureka Springs to I-40 at Alma, then east on I-40 past Memphis to I-840 near Nashville, finally north on US-79 to Clarksville. Alternatively, US-64 east from Conway to Clarksville offers a more rural experience. Fuel costs average $45–$55 for the trip, with gas stations concentrated in towns like Harrison, Russellville, and Camden. Avoid driving through Memphis during rush hour (4–6 PM) to add 30+ minutes of stop-and-go traffic.

• typical fuel stops: Harrison (AR) at mile 55, Russellville (AR) at mile 120, Camden (TN) at mile 260
• road quality: I-40 is well-maintained; US-62 west of Harrison can be narrow with gravel shoulders
• toll roads: None on this route, but I-840 near Nashville has express lanes that are free with 2+ occupants

The Ozarks yield to the Arkansas River Valley near Russellville, then the landscape flattens into the Mississippi Delta before rising again into the Western Highland Rim of Tennessee. The most scenic segment is US-62 from Eureka Springs to Harrison, where the road hugs the Buffalo National River corridor. Stop at the Pruitt Landing overlook (mile 30) for a view of the river canyon. Beyond Harrison, the Boston Mountains offer fall color displays of hickory, oak, and dogwood. In Arkansas, small roadside vendors sell Ozark honey and hand-carved wooden crafts. In Tennessee, the town of Camden hosts a farmer's market every Saturday morning (May–October) with local produce and pottery.

• natural attraction: Buffalo National River (no permit needed for hiking)
• local commerce: Ozark Folk Center (mountain music and crafts), downtown Clarksville antique shops
• UNESCO sites: None directly en route; the nearest is Cahokia Mounds (IL), 4 hours north of Clarksville

US-62 from Eureka Springs to Berryville is known for sharp curves and deer crossings at dusk. Drive with headlights on in this stretch even during the day. I-40 has wide shoulders and rumble strips. For families, the Children's Museum of the Arkansas River Valley in Russellville offers hands-on exhibits about dinosaurs and geology. Pet-friendly stops include the Buffalo River Trail (leashed dogs allowed) and the Clarksville Greenway. Fatigue management: plan a 15-minute break every 2 hours. The rest area at I-40 mile 84 (near Ozark, AR) has shaded picnic tables and clean restrooms. Hidden off-route spot: the Big Piney Creek waterfall near Sand Gap, AR, requires a 1.5-mile hike but is worth the detour for solitude.

• family stop: Arkansas River Valley Children's Museum ($8 admission)
• pet-friendly: Baxter County Bark Park (off-leash) in Mountain Home, AR
• rest zone: I-40 Rest Area (mile 84) or the McDonald's in Jasper, AR (free WiFi)