john harris field (ar05)
john harris field (ar05) is one of arkansas′ most unique private backcountry airstrips, located atop spring mountainjust west of mount nebo state park. rather than serving as a traditional airport, it is part of a destination-focused aviation community where the journey is as memorable as the destination itself.
highlights include:
charted private grass runway measuring approximately 2,520 feet by 50 feet.
elevation of roughly 1,770 feet, creating impressive views across the arkansas river valley.
recognized as a premier backcountry flying destination.
located on remote spring mountain, where privacy one of its defining characteristics.
camping, hiking, and access to scenic overlooks are available for visiting pilots.
perhaps the greatest appeal is the arrival experience. pilots descend onto a mountaintop grass runway surrounded by forested ridges and expansive bluff views—an experience that is exceptionally rare in the south.
spring mountain
spring mountain sits west of mount nebo and overlooks the surrounding ouachita landscape. it is valued for:
exceptional privacy
panoramic mountain and valley views
dark skies with minimal light pollution
hiking, wildlife, and outdoor recreation
easy access to the arkansas river valley while feeling completely removed from everyday life.
about fly oz
fly oz is an organization dedicated to making the ozarks one of the country′s premier recreational and backcountry flying destinations. headquartered at thaden field, it has created a network of privately owned airstrips that welcome recreational pilots through responsible stewardship and education.
the organization offers:
a curated network of private grass airstrips
backcountry flight training
pilot education and safety programs
foreflight resources
camping and outdoor recreation opportunities
a strong community of recreational and adventure aviators.
john harris field is one of the signature destinations within the fly oz network and is frequently featured in aviation articles, videos, and pilot trip reports. pilots consistently describe the scenery and approach as among the highlights of flying in the ozarks.
perched atop six breathtaking bluff-top acres in the heart of the ouachita mountains, with direct access to a private backcountry airstrip and its own modern hangar, this extraordinary retreat redefines mountain living. here, you can leave the city behind, fly directly into john harris field (ar05), taxi to your hangar, and be enjoying panoramic mountain views within minutes. it′s an experience that is as rare as the home itself.
completed in 2019, the thoughtfully designed residence offers approximately 2,200 square feet with three bedrooms, three private baths, soaring ceilings, polished concrete floors, and dramatic 17-foot marvin windows that frame panoramic mountain vistas from nearly every room. scandinavian-inspired architecture creates a warm, understated elegance, while the open living space, anchored by a wood-burning fireplace, flows effortlessly into a beautifully appointed kitchen featuring a walk-in pantry and sonic nugget ice maker, making it equally suited for quiet weekends or unforgettable gatherings.
designed for effortless living, the home incorporates passive solar construction, blown-in insulation, fiber internet, a 22kw generac generator, a private 192-foot well, hardie plank siding, and a standing seam metal roof, blending efficiency with exceptional craftsmanship.
aviation enthusiasts will appreciate permanent access to john harris field (ar05), a charted 2,500-foot private backcountry grass airstrip, along with an architecturally designed modern hangar adjacent to the runway. weekend escapes from dallas, houston, tulsa, and beyond become as simple as loading the airplane and taking off.
recognized as a premier backcountry flying destination, this is more than a remarkable home. it is a lifestyle defined by freedom, adventure, and the rare privilege of arriving somewhere truly extraordinary.
