BEST FOR FAMILY REUNIONS: Kings River DeckHouse

large deck overlooking kings river

A Family Reunion Space for Nature Lovers

The tree-lined path smells of earth and pine. It wanders down into a valley and hovers just above Rockhouse Creek. It bounds gracefully over multicolored stones and persistent green mosses as it flows to the river just ahead. Even in the winter, sounds of life abound. Chickadees tweet discretely in the brushiest part of the woods and a self-confident armadillo scours the woodland floor for his next tasty treat without any concern for us as we hike past him. Within a mile, we make our way to the bluff overlooking the Kings River and as we exit the canopy of pine and cedar, we spot him. He is hunting, although it  eagles on the shore of kings riverappears more like dancing, as he patrols the water and shoreline. It isn’t until he rests on a branch stretching out over the river that we can view his intimidating talons and the intensity in his eyes. Bald eagles are regularly spotted on this section of the river but standing nearly at his level on the bluff offers an unforgettable view. Just downstream his fishing partner, just as intense and beautiful, soars close to the water’s surface. By a measure of time and effort, the hike to the river from the Kings River Deckhouse is short but the journey is far from ordinary.

hiking near kings river
Hiking near the Kings River Deckhouse.

Upon entering the front door, it is apparent that this is a very special place. Wood-sided and thoughtfully designed, the house lives to complement the land that surrounds it. Large windows look out toward the river and the massive deck suspends you over the dense forest managed by the Nature Conservancy. Inside, the kitchen and living area are separated by several stories of stacked native rock, forming a massive fireplace at the center of the home. The stately main house is flanked by two separate bungalows (containing two full suites in each) and connected by a large pavilion and a monumental stone firepit making the property feel a bit like Camp David. It’s no surprise that this compound was once owned by the Liedtke family.

large deck overlooking kings river
Kings River Deckhouse at night.

For three days our extended family made the Kings River Deckhouse our home. During the day we hiked, watched movies, and spent time catching up. We cooked elaborate meals together and ate around a rustic live edge wooden table surrounded by windows that offered an unobstructed view of the natural beauty all around.

In the evening we played epic card games and stayed up watching the last coals of a once roaring fire, flicker out before heading to bed. On the final morning, we all woke shortly before 5am and met on the deck with a cup of coffee to watch the sun rise over the trees. Painfully aware that it was our last morning together before life returned to normal, we all reflected on the experiences we enjoyed here and vowed to do this every year. I am certain that the Kings River Deckhouse has been filled with the joy and laughter of many moments like ours and many more to come.

sun rise over the kings river
View of the sunrise over the Kings River.

Your stay at the Kings River Deckhouse supports the mission of the Nature Conservancy, to protect precious land and water resources and create a world where people and nature thrive.

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The Kings River Deckhouse is located just 5 miles from Eureka Springs, Arkansas on Rockhouse Road. It is a perfect place to relax, hike, and watch wildlife without ever getting into your car. Of course mountain biking, floating, fishing, and hiking are just minutes from the property. With downtown Eureka Springs just a few minutes down the road, your family can enjoy Eureka Springs dining, shopping, spas, and more. The Ozark Mountain region has so many things to do, you will plan your next trip before leaving Eureka Springs!

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