Arkansas, Sharp County, Cherokee Village, Lot 11, Electricity, Water. TERMS: $50/Month

The town of Cherokee Village, AR was the first planned recreational community in the state, founded by Arkansas developer John Cooper in 1954 on the banks of the South Fork River. Today, the area is a 15,000-acre resort destination that is home to a population of 4,700 full-time residents and more than 15,000 property owners.

Cherokee Village holds an anniversary and reunion party every 10 years. Just what is this family-friendly community celebrating? A location in the natural beauty of the Ozarks, two private 18-hole golf courses, six swimming pools, a private beach, tennis courts, recreation and sports centers, fitness and senior centers, horseshoe pits, nature trails, RV park, and lakes for boating and fishing. Additionally, the 15,000-acre resort/retirement community has more than 125 local clubs and organizations, excellent schools, low taxes, and enjoys four distinct seasons. And, if that's not enough, a river runs through it.

Cutting through the lush land and hardwood forests of Cherokee Village is the South Fork River, which flows into the well-known Spring River. Both rivers are popular in the region for floating, and fishing for trout and walleye. Serving as the headwaters for the Spring River is Mammoth Spring, flowing at more than nine million gallons of 58-degree water per hour. This 58-degree water provides plenty of fresh water throughout the year. The river is crystal-clear, with long pools and whitewater falls. At nearby Mammoth Spring is Mammoth Spring State Park, offering exhibits, picnic sites, a trail, ball field, restored depot which houses a museum, and children's playground as well as a view of the spring and lake. Visitors to this vacation destination can stay in a cottage, timeshare, home, condo, and golf course or lakeside rentals. The nearby town of Hardy is a great day trip destination, with a unique downtown and lots of quaint shops.

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