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Cadron Settlement Park: A Journey Through Time

Discover history and nature at Cadron Settlement Park: Explore trails, a reconstructed blockhouse, and the somber Trail of Tears.

4.5

Explore Cadron Settlement Park in Conway, Arkansas, where history and nature converge. Discover the site of an early 19th-century settlement, a Trail of Tears encampment, and enjoy outdoor activities along the Arkansas River.

A brief summary to Cadron Settlement Park

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Explore the hiking trails for scenic views of the Arkansas River; bring water and wear appropriate footwear.
  • Visit the reconstructed blockhouse to learn about the early settlers and the history of the Cadron settlement.
  • Take time to reflect at the Trail of Tears exhibit, which commemorates the Cherokee who suffered and died at this site.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Cadron Settlement Park is located west of Conway, Arkansas. From Conway, take US Highway 64 West. Turn left onto Highway 319 West. The park is approximately 1 mile on the right. Parking is free and available in the parking area on the left as you enter the park.

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Discover more about Cadron Settlement Park

Cadron Settlement Park, located just west of Conway, Arkansas, offers a unique blend of historical significance and natural beauty. This 150-acre park sits on a hill overlooking the Arkansas River and preserves the site of the first permanent white settlement in central Arkansas, dating back to 1818. Initially, the settlement of Cadron held promise as a potential territorial capital. John McElmurry, an early settler, built a blockhouse that functioned as his residence, a tavern, and a trading post for furs with local Cherokee. However, the town's political aspirations were dashed when Little Rock was chosen as the capital. The park also bears the somber mark of the Trail of Tears. In 1834, a group of over 700 Cherokee found themselves stranded at Cadron due to low water levels on the Arkansas River. Tragically, a cholera outbreak struck, claiming the lives of many, including children. The Faulkner County Historical Society has identified numerous Native American graves within the park. Today, visitors can explore a reconstructed blockhouse, a reminder of the settlement's early days. The park features exhibits and interpretive signs detailing the history of the area, including the Trail of Tears. Hiking and biking trails wind through the park, offering scenic views of the Arkansas River. A boat ramp provides access to the river for fishing and paddling. With picnic areas and pavilions, Cadron Settlement Park is an ideal destination for a day of outdoor recreation and historical exploration.

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