Get to know
Cherokee Village
In 1948, with a vision for family connection and the tranquil beauty of the South Fork River, John Cooper, Sr. embarked on his endeavor, acquiring 400 acres as a cherished summer haven. Recognizing the universal desire for families to escape and create lasting memories, his dream expanded. He acquired an additional 2,000 acres, envisioning a vibrant community where others could also build their retreats and enjoy the promise of lakeside living. This inspired spirit led to the founding of the Cherokee Village Development Company in 1954, a pioneering step that established Cherokee Village as the very first planned recreational community in Arkansas and a true national trendsetter.
By June 1955, the dream began to bloom with the dedication of Cherokee Village, boasting its first sparkling lake and a convenient airstrip, ready to welcome families to their new haven.
Demonstrating a commitment to fostering a thriving environment, the Cherokee Village Suburban Improvement District (CVSID) was formed in 1976. Under the forward-thinking Arkansas State Improvement District Act of 1941, CVSID became the steward of essential services, ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all residents through fire protection, street and public maintenance, police security, and the parks and recreational spaces.
The community's journey of growth and unity reached a significant milestone in the late 1990s. In 1997, Cherokee Village West, nestled in Fulton County, embraced incorporation. This was followed by a unifying moment in 1998 when the Sharp County portion was annexed, bringing the entire area together as a single, flourishing city. This pivotal step made Cherokee Village the largest city in the tri-county area of Fulton, Izard, and Sharp Counties.
With this transition to cityhood, responsibilities were divided to best serve the growing community. The newly formed city took on the vital duties of Police, Fire services, street maintenance, the establishment of a District Court, and Planning & Zoning. Meanwhile, CVSID continued its mission for the heart of Cherokee Village's leisure and recreation, running and maintaining the golf courses, the many parks, and the 7 lakes that define its charm.
Today, Cherokee Village proudly encompasses over 13,000 acres, connected by over 300 miles of roads. Cherokee Village, with its welcoming community of over 4,800 residents, is a true haven boasting seven beautiful lakes, two engaging golf courses, a community outdoor pool, convenient marinas, parks, campgrounds, rivers, creeks, and falls, a rich tapestry of churches, clubs, and organizations that foster connection and belonging. As a first-class municipality, Cherokee Village is under a mayor-council form of government, a testament to the enduring vision of its founder and the vibrant spirit of its residents.
"Cherokee Village - Come visit and stay for a lifetime!"
What We Offer
Cherokee Village is a beautiful lake and golf, residential community located on over 13,000 acres at the eastern edge of the Ozarks in northern Arkansas.
If you have been looking for that "best kept secret" place to live or vacation without the high prices and crowds, you have found it.
Come find out for yourself what a wonderful piece of America we have here with 7 beautiful lakes, 2 uncrowded golf courses, many parks, tennis courts, recreation centers and other facilities, rivers and streams, and an abundance of nature and wildlife.
My Vision
As an SID Commissioner for Cherokee Village, my priority will be to listen to your voices and work collaboratively to ensure our community thrives. I pledge to champion progress that respects our unique character, foster greater unity among all residents, and steadfastly protect the natural beauty of our lakes, the quality of our golf courses, and the valuable amenities that define our cherished way of life, so that future generations can enjoy them as much as we do today.
Our Past Through Postcards
The history of this community can be found in many ways, but I think it is best found through these old postcards... Enjoy!
Rec Center
Cherokee Village Thunderbird Recreation Center Aerial View (Frontside)
Rec Center
Cherokee Village Thunderbird Recreation Center Aerial View (Backside)
Sitting Bull Restaurant
Cherokee Village Sitting Bull Restaurant (Frontside)
Sitting Bull Restaurant
Cherokee Village Sitting Bull Restaurant (Backside)
Lake Sequoyah
Cherokee Village Lake Sequoyah Water Skiing (Frontside)
Lake Sequoyah
Cherokee Village Lake Sequoyah Water Skiing (Backside)
Lake Sequoyah
Cherokee Village Lake Sequoyah View (Frontside)
Lake Sequoyah
Cherokee Village Lake Sequoyah View (Backside)
Lake Sequoyah
Cherokee Village Gitchee Gumee Beach (Frontside)
Lake Sequoyah
Cherokee Village Gitchee Gumee Beach (Backside)
Community Center
Cherokee Village Community Center Lounge (Frontside)
Community Center
Cherokee Village Community Center Lounge (Backside)
Community Center
Cherokee Village Community Center 1 (Frontside)
Community Center
Cherokee Village Community Center 1 (Backside)
Community Center
Cherokee Village Community Center 2 (Frontside)
Community Center
Cherokee Village Community Center 2 (Backside)
Administration Building
Cherokee Village Administration Building (Frontside)
Administration Building
Cherokee Village Administration Building (Backside) postmarked Aug 10 1966
Lake Thunderbird
Cherokee Village Lake Thunderbird (Frontside)
Lake Thunderbird
Cherokee Village Lake Thunderbird (Backside)
Lake Sequoyah Dogwood
Cherokee Village Lake Sequoyah Dogwood (Frontside)
Lake Sequoyah Dogwood
Cherokee Village Lake Sequoyah Dogwood (Backside)
Did you know...
Cherokee Village was founded in 1954 by John A. Cooper, Sr., as the very first master-planned resort/retirement community in the state and one of the first of its kind in the United States. Today it is home to over 4800 residents who enjoy all the amenities that has made this area of the country a very popular vacation destination, a dream spot for retirement, and just a great place to raise a family.
Other Important Links
Other important links about Cherokee Village, Arkansas you might find helpful.
Cherokee Village City Government
cherokeevillage.org
Cherokee Village Advertising & Promotion
discovercherokeevillage.com
Cherokee Village Tourist Info & Welcome Center
Arkansas.com/cherokee-village
Arkansas.com Cherokee Village
Arkansas.com/cherokee-village