If you’re looking to spend more time outdoors during Spring Break this year, be sure to add Compton Gardens & Arboretum in Bentonville, Arkansas to your plans.

With paved walkways, gently sloping terrain, and a location just steps from the Downtown Bentonville Square, Compton is an easy, accessible stop for families, visitors, and anyone wanting fresh air without a long drive. The Razorback Greenway runs directly through the property, making it simple to bike or walk your way in and continue exploring the city afterward.

Here’s what will likely be blooming during your late March or early April visit:

Virginia Bluebells

One of spring’s first surprises! Virginia bluebells begin blooming in March, often carpeting shady woodland areas before the trees grow their leaves. Their flowers actually start out pink and slowly turn soft blue — see if you can spot both colors on the same plant.

Fun fact: Bluebells are called “spring ephemerals,” which means they bloom quickly, soak up sunshine before the trees leaf out, then disappear until next year. They’re here for a short time — don’t miss them!

Eastern Redbuds

Redbuds are Arkansas’s way of saying, “Spring is here!” Bright pinkish-purple blossoms cover the branches before the leaves appear, making the trees look like they’re glowing.

Fun fact: The tiny flowers grow right along the branches and even the trunk — something called cauliflory. See if your kids can find blooms growing straight out of the bark!

White Flowering Dogwoods

A few weeks after redbuds begin to fade, white dogwoods start to shine. Their large white “petals” light up woodland edges and garden paths.

Fun fact: Those big white petals aren’t actually petals — they’re special leaves called bracts. The real flowers are the tiny cluster in the center. Look closely and you’ll see them!

Red Buckeye

Red buckeye brings bold pops of red to shady areas in late March and April. Its tall clusters of tubular flowers are especially eye-catching.

Fun fact: Hummingbirds love red buckeye. If you visit on a warm afternoon, pause quietly nearby — you might see a tiny, fast-moving visitor stopping for nectar.

Celandine Poppy

Bright yellow celandine poppies brighten the woodland floor in early spring. They thrive in shady garden beds and natural areas before taller plants fill in for summer.

Fun fact: These cheerful flowers close up at night and on cloudy days, then reopen when the sun returns — almost like they’re keeping springtime office hours.

Planning Your Visit

Compton Gardens & Arboretum is located in Bentonville, Arkansas and is free and open to the community. Spring Break is an ideal time for families, photographers, plant lovers, and anyone wanting to experience native Arkansas wildflowers at their peak!