Batesville, on the banks of the White River in the eastern Ozark foothills, is one of the state's oldest towns. A busy trade center since the very early 1800s, it continues today as popular travel crossroads. With two national historic districts, Batesville boasts handsome examples of architecture covering every decade since the 1840s. Lyon College and the University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville offer cultural events throughout the year. The White River Water Carnival (started in 1938), the Arkansas Scottish Festival and Ozark Foothills Film Festival are popular events. Riverside picnic areas, recreational parks, the state's largest speedway, and a city golf course are available as well. History abounds in the area. Old Independence Regional Museum, at Ninth and Vine Streets, tells the story of the 12 current counties that formed the original county in 1820. Mountain View and the Ozark Folk Center are only 38 miles away.
