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Davidsonville Historic State Park: A Frontier Town Frozen in Time

Discover Arkansas's frontier past at Davidsonville Historic State Park, where history and nature converge on the banks of the Black River.

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Explore the preserved site of Davidsonville, Arkansas's first frontier town, established in 1815. Once a bustling river port with the state's first post office, courthouse, and land office, it faded into history by the 1830s. Today, discover remnants of the past through exhibits, trails, and reconstructed structures.

A brief summary to Davidsonville Historic State Park

Local tips

  • Visit the park during the week for a more peaceful experience and better access to trails.
  • Check the park's website for special events and guided tours to enhance your visit.
  • Bring comfortable shoes for walking and exploring the historical sites.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy in the park's scenic picnic areas.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Davidsonville Historic State Park is located south of Pocahontas. From Pocahontas, travel west on US-62 for approximately 2 miles, then turn south onto Highway 166 and continue for 9 miles. The park entrance will be on your right. There is no fee to enter the park. Parking is available near the visitor center, boat ramp, and campground.

  • Public Transport

    Limited public transportation options are available. Black River Area Development Corporation (BRAD) offers public transit within Pocahontas. From the Pocahontas city bus route, you would need to transfer to a taxi or rideshare service like Uber to reach the park, which is about 10 miles outside of town. A one way trip on the city bus is $2.00. Uber or taxi fares will vary.

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Discover more about Davidsonville Historic State Park

Davidsonville Historic State Park invites visitors to step back in time and explore the remains of a once-thriving frontier town. Established in 1815, Davidsonville holds the distinction of being one of the earliest settlements in the Arkansas Territory, serving as a vital river port on the Black River. The town boasted the territory's first post office, courthouse, and United States General Land Office, making it a significant hub for commerce and governance. Davidsonville's prosperity was short-lived. By the 1830s, the town was bypassed by a major road, leading to its eventual abandonment. Today, the park preserves the memory of Davidsonville, offering a glimpse into life on the early Arkansas frontier. Visitors can explore the historic townsite via walking trails, discovering exhibits that tell the story of Davidsonville and its residents. See the outlines of former buildings with "ghost structures". The visitor center features artifacts unearthed during archaeological digs, including a replica of an 1820s flatboat. For outdoor enthusiasts, the park provides opportunities for camping, fishing, and hiking along the Black River and Trapper Lake.

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