Compton Gardens & Arboretum

Gardens & Arboretum

Visitors at Compton Gardens will enjoy native plants, champion trees, and impressive greenery. Free to visit, open sunrise to sunset.

See Map

Neil Compton Exhibit Room

Learn the history behind Dr. Neil Compton’s fight to save the Buffalo River. This exhibit room is located in Dr. Neil Compton’s original family home!

Open Monday-Friday
8am-5pm

Experience Art

When you explore the gardens you’ll find Oz Art installations throughout! Stop by the meadow to see the Heartland sculpture. Click the link below to find other public art around Bentonville.

View Map of local Oz Art

312 N. Main St., Bentonville, AR

Get Directions

Oasis in the heart of Downtown Bentonville

All are welcome at Compton Gardens and Arboretum, a greenspace paradise in the heart of Downtown Bentonville. This stunningly peaceful sanctuary of over six acres celebrates the rich history of Ozark horticulture, including the conservation efforts of Dr. Neil Compton who led the fight to save the Buffalo River. Visitors at Compton Gardens will discover lively woodlands, Champion Trees, native plants, and impressive greenery. Experience the magic of Compton Gardens and Arboretum by foot or by bike and enjoy nature and art on the trails.

Participate in a Program

These spaces enhance the natural and educational focus of programs aimed at all ages.  

Some of these programs include: 

  • Native Plants of the Ozarks
  • Little Bug Hunt 
  • Plan Propagation Workshops 
View Current Programs

Our History

Compton Gardens is named after Dr. Neil Compton, an inspirational figure in Northwest Arkansas. He not only helped to establish the Buffalo River as the first National River, but was also inspired by the native plants found along the Buffalo to create his own native garden!

Learn More
View Dr. Compton’s Photography