Gwen's Nest- a unique luxury, family cottage in the woods!

Summary:
Nestled on 830 acres, but just a couple miles south of town, this completely renovated, historic cottage has all the modern amenities. It features an open floor plan that spans 40 feet from front to back upstairs, in one of the most peaceful and natural, tree top settings. It also has two covered/ screened in decks with a 16' bar perfect for enjoying the amazing scenery and the beauty of The Natural State. It's the perfect place for your next family gathering, or just to get away and relax.

The Space:
Located about a mile uphill from the new WOKA Whitewater Kayak Park, and right next to all the new trails, this historic cottage, originally built in 1904, has been completely renovated, while maintaining its original charm. Enjoy amazing views from all around, but especially from the screen in decks overlooking a steep wooded hillside/ valley. As well as a one of kind hot & cold outdoor shower on bottom deck/ screened in porch off back bedroom downstairs. Set amongst 830 acres of the historic Lake Frances property near Siloam Springs, AR, the area is now known as the Lake Frances Preserve, for wildlife habitat, water quality, and future public access. The property was purchased from the descendants of Frances Sloan Thomas, for whom the lake was named, and is the largest tract purchased by NWALT to date, making it their biggest conservation property in Benton County.

The preserve lies on the Arkansas/Oklahoma border east of the Illinois River and the former 70-acre Lake Frances. It is one of the largest tracts of contiguous forest in western Benton County and is considered one of the most significant pine/oak woodlands in Northwest Arkansas. There is also a large post oak savanna of regional conservation significance along Lake Frances Gate Rd.

“Permanently protecting the Lake Frances property ensures a piece of Benton County’s natural heritage is protected forever. The shortleaf pine stands and oak savanna are unique in our region and help tell the story of what it was like here nearly 200 years ago,” said Marson Nance, Director of Land Stewardship and Research. “We’ve already found unique plants on the property but have barely scratched the surface in documenting the land’s biodiversity.”

Lake Frances Preserve has over seven miles of mapped streams, much of which consists of seasonal and ephemeral streams which support an abundance of plants and wildlife. Permanent protection of these streams and their habitats will help protect water quality in the Illinois River.

Guest Access:
Coded entry. You will receive detailed self check in instructions on the day of arrival.

The Neighborhood:
Located just south of Siloam Springs in the historic Lake Francis area amongst only a few other properties not owned by the NWA Land Trust. Easy to access from HWY 59, but you will feel like you are the only one around in the rural setting. Just up the road/ hill from the new kayak park opening Spring of 2023.

Other Things to Note:
Located just 5.5 miles from Historic Downtown Siloam Springs, but on a 880 acre private reserve, you’ll feel like you are in the middle of nowhere.

We also have an optional additional/ overflow space at a super cute, fully renovate camper located right next door (if you need an additional bed/ space). It has a very comfy full bed, and a bunk for small adult/ child and table also makes into a bed. Send us a message if interested booking this additional space.

Interaction with Guests:
Happy to help answer questions, give suggestions on where to eat/ what to do. Always available, quick to respond, but we will never bug you.