Crystal River Tourist Camp, Historic tourist camp in Cave City, Arkansas
Crystal River Tourist Camp is a historic lodging site in Cave City with eight fieldstone structures built using materials from the Ozark Mountains and decorated with geodes and quartz elements. The grounds span several acres and contain original carports, barbecue areas, and outdoor fireplaces.
The camp was built in 1934 by Hubert Clarence Carpenter and stonemason Prince Matlock during the rise of automobile travel. This period marked a time when road travelers sought new lodging facilities specially built for motorists passing through the region.
The buildings display artifacts from Crystal River Cave, including pottery pieces and arrowheads set directly into the stone walls. These embedded elements show how the site connected visitors to the natural history of the region.
The property is located on Main Street in Cave City and is easily accessible for visitors wanting to explore the stone architecture. Best visited during daylight to see the details of the stone walls and embedded decorative elements.
Prince Matlock created detailed stone patterns in the walls depicting crosses and animals, connecting them with geodes purchased from local farmers. This blend of found stones and artistic design makes each structure a work combining nature and human craft.
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