I really like North Central Ark... the last couple of years I have taken my family on vacation to Batesville and have enjoyed it very much. As a kid I spent time in this area as well.. If I ever move.. my first two places to go would be Colorado and North Central Arkansas.
Eureka Springs is in northern Arkansas. Quite beautiful and plenty to do. Go stay at the haunted Crescent Hotel this month! I've stayed there once and it was a rush!
I would agree with another poster that Eureka Springs in the fall/winter is a good place to vacation. Cheaper hotel rates in the off season as well as a number of good restaurants is the main reason to go during this time. My wife and I went a couple years ago in November and thouroghly enjoyed our time.