Davidsonville Historic State Park: A Frontier Town Frozen in Time

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Step back in time at Davidsonville Historic State Park, where Arkansas' frontier past comes to life through archaeology and natural beauty.

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Davidsonville Historic State Park

Explore the remnants of Davidsonville, one of Arkansas Territory's first settlements, established in 1815. This state park preserves the town's original footprint, including the first post office, courthouse, and land office in Arkansas. Discover the stories of frontier life through exhibits, trails, and ongoing archaeological excavations.

A brief summary to Davidsonville Historic State Park

8047 Hwy 166 S, Pocahontas, Arkansas, 72455, US
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Monday 8 am-5 pm
Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
Thursday 8 am-5 pm
Friday 8 am-5 pm
Saturday 1 pm-5 pm
Sunday 1 pm-5 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Davidsonville Historic State Park.

Visit the park's visitor center to view artifacts from archaeological digs and learn about the history of Davidsonville.
Hike the Historic Townsite Trail to see the outlines of former buildings and learn about life in the early 1800s.
Bring your fishing gear and try your luck in the Black River or the park's 12-acre fishing lake.
Check the park's schedule for ranger-led programs, including guided history and nature hikes.

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Getting There

Driving

Davidsonville Historic State Park is located at 8047 Hwy 166 S, Pocahontas, AR 72455. From Pocahontas, travel 2 miles west on U.S. Highway 62, then 9 miles south on Hwy 166. From Black Rock, take U.S. Highway 63 to Hwy 361, then go 6 miles north. Parking is available in front of the visitor center, near the boat ramp, and at the campground. There is no admission fee to enter the park.
Public Transport

If arriving by public transportation, take a Greyhound or local bus to the station in Pocahontas. From there, utilize a taxi or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) to reach Davidsonville Historic State Park, approximately 8 miles away. Rideshare availability may vary. Expect to pay around $15-$25 for the taxi or rideshare from the bus station to the park.

Discover more about Davidsonville Historic State Park

Davidsonville Historic State Park, located in Randolph County, Arkansas, offers a unique glimpse into the state's early history. Founded in 1815, Davidsonville quickly became a vital river port town on the Black River, serving as a hub for commerce and governance in the Arkansas Territory. The town boasted the territory's first post office, courthouse, and U.S. General Land Office. However, Davidsonville's prosperity was short-lived. By the 1830s, the town was bypassed by a major road, leading to its decline and eventual abandonment. Today, the 163-acre park preserves the remains of this once-thriving frontier community, offering visitors a chance to step back in time and imagine life on the Arkansas frontier. Visitors can explore the park's visitor center, which features exhibits showcasing artifacts discovered during archaeological excavations. A replica of an 1820s flatboat provides a glimpse into the town's river commerce. Several trails wind through the park, including the Historic Townsite Trail, which highlights the locations of former businesses and residences. The Black River Trail offers scenic views of the river and passes by the historic Philips-Reeves Cemetery. Davidsonville Historic State Park provides a blend of history and outdoor recreation. Fishing is a popular activity, with access to the Black River and a 12-acre fishing lake. The park also offers camping, picnicking, and opportunities for hiking and nature watching.