Van Buren County
countyVan Buren County, located in north-central Arkansas, is a region characterized by its natural beauty in the Ozark Mountain foothills and its proximity to Greers Ferry Lake. The county offers a blend of rural charm and outdoor recreational opportunities. As of 2023, the population was approximately 15,936. Van Buren County's economy is supported by sectors like healthcare, retail, and construction. The county benefits from its location, which is about 56 miles from Little Rock, providing access to the state's capital and economic hub. Key institutions include the county government and local school districts. Van Buren County is distinctive for its rich history, dating back to its establishment in 1833, and its abundant natural attractions, including Greers Ferry Lake and parts of the Ozark National Forest. The county provides a quality of life centered on outdoor recreation and a close-knit community atmosphere.
Van Buren County, Arkansas
- Classification
- County
- FIPS Code
- 05-141
- Country
- United States
- County
- County
- Region
- Ozark Mountain foothills
- Total Area
- 724 sq mi
- Land Area
- 708 sq mi
- Water Area
- 16 sq mi
- Latitude
- 35.596
- Longitude
- -92.4723
- Climate
- Humid subtropical climate
- Notable Features
- Greers Ferry Lake · Ozark National Forest · Natural bridges
- Neighboring Areas
- Searcy County · Stone County · Cleburne County · Faulkner County · Conway County · Pope County
- Population (2020)
- 15,796
- Est. Population (2024)
- 16,152
- Median Age
- 49.6
- Median Income
- $47,266
- Poverty Rate
- 19.5%
- Owner-Occupied
- 78%
- Racial & Ethnic Composition
- 91.9% White (Non-Hispanic), 3.3% Hispanic, 2.9% Two or More Races
- Government Type
- Constitutional body, Quorum Court
- Governing Body
- Quorum Court
- Body Size
- 9 members
- Unemployment Rate
- 5%
- Employment Sectors
- Health Care & Social Assistance · Retail Trade · Construction
- School Districts
- Clinton School District · South Side School District
- Transportation
- U.S. Highway 65 · Arkansas Highway 9 · Arkansas Highway 16 · Arkansas Highway 27 · Arkansas Highway 92 · Arkansas Highway 95 · Arkansas Highway 110 · Arkansas Highway 124 · Arkansas Highway 254 · Arkansas Highway 285 · Arkansas Highway 330 · Arkansas Highway 336 · Arkansas Highway 337 · Arkansas Highway 356
- Major Facilities
- Courthouse in Clinton
- Outdoor Access
- Yes
- Major Recreation Areas
- Greers Ferry Lake · Ozark National Forest
- Founded
- 1833
- Named After
- Martin Van Buren
- Historical Significance
- Established as the 29th county in Arkansas Territory
- Key Events
- County formed from Conway, Izard, and Independence counties






