Discover Compton Gardens & Arboretum

Locals and visitors alike eagerly take advantage of Compton Gardens—a stunningly peaceful oasis of over seven acres. Guests at Compton Gardens will enjoy lively woodlands, native plants, and impressive greenery. These spirited gardens are perfect for both small and large gatherings.

Named after the late Dr. Neil Compton, a noted Bentonville physician, writer, photographer, founder of the Ozark Society and the hero of the Buffalo River— the Compton Gardens surround The Conference Center of The Peel Compton Foundation and are often used for filming and commercial photo shoots.

Compton Gardens is home to five champion trees as designated by the State of Arkansas Forestry Commission. A champion tree is the largest individual of a species of tree—and yes, we have five! Our five beloved champion trees are the American Chinese Chestnut Hybrid, Bitternut, Black Willow, Pagoda Dogwood, and American Yellowwood.

In addition to the champion trees, there are beautiful magnolias, maple trees, and larger-than-life oaks. Many brides and grooms have said their wedding vows under the magnificent magnolias of the Compton Gardens. The gardens also include a lovely meadow, seasonal waterfall, multiple bridges, bike and pedestrian walkways, as well as several art pieces including Red Clay by Ed Pennybaker, Open Heart by Daniel Popper, and Group of Bears by Paul Manship. The gardens also include Cindy Springs, and are a gateway to Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. At lunchtime you will find many downtown professionals taking a stroll, reading a book or eating lunch at one of our two rock benches built as service projects by local Eagle Scouts.

COMPTON GARDENS AWARDED ONLY LEVEL 2 ARBORETUM IN ARKANSAS

BENTONVILLE, AR (October 28, 2020) – Compton Gardens has been awarded a Level 2 Accreditation by The ArbNet Arboretum Accreditation Program and The Morton Arboretum, for achieving particular standards of professional practices deemed important for arboreta and botanic gardens. The ArbNet Arboretum Accreditation Program is the only global initiative to officially recognize arboreta at various levels of development, capacity, and professionalism. Compton Gardens is now recognized as an accredited arboretum in the Morton Register of Arboreta, a database of the world’s arboreta and gardens dedicated to woody plants.

Located at the restored home of the late Dr. Neil Compton, a noted Bentonville physician, writer, photographer, conservationist and who also spearheaded the effort to protect the Buffalo River, the gardens showcase seven acres of native trees, woodland plants, walking trails and meadow.

Nestled in the heart of downtown Bentonville, the Compton Gardens includes over seven acres of native trees, plants, and gardens, you’re sure to enjoy the serenity boasted by Compton Gardens. In addition, the Conference Center is a mid-century modern home which was beautifully restored in 2018. This venue can host well over 100 guests. This venue rental includes tables, chairs, wifi, and many other upgraded technologies.

Rental details for The Compton Gardens & Conference Center will vary as there is a multitude of ways to configure seating and space. The Compton Gardens are included with the Conference Center venue, but the main floor Garden Room can be rented separately. Its maximum seating capacity is 65 guests and for cocktail style, 125 guests.

Reserving your date for The Compton Gardens & Conference Center is a breeze. To ensure that your date is available and your event goes off without a hitch, please call The Peel Compton well in advance of your desired event date. While we are happy to host a variety of different events of all types of sizes, our venue does have seasonal surges. Make sure the ideal date for your event is reserved.

The Peel Compton Foundation looks forward to creating a unique outdoor experience for special events and groups of all kinds—from families and businesses to whole schools and everyone in between. 

The Compton Gardens & Neil Compton Exhibit Tour will guide visitors through architectural gems such as Dr. Compton’s original home (which is now The Compton Conference Center), our many gardens and exciting trails.

The impressive foliage found in The Compton Gardens entices visitors and often calls them to return for its beauty and serenity. Learn more about exquisite flowers, fascinating wildlife, and magnificent native trees.