Davidsonville Historic State Park, Lower Delta Travel Guide

Davidsonville Historic State Park, located in Pocahontas, Arkansas, offers a unique blend of history and outdoor recreation. The park preserves the site of Davidsonville, a frontier town founded in 1815 that quickly became an important regional center. Davidsonville was home to Arkansas Territory's first post office, courthouse, and land office. The town thrived for about fifteen years, serving as a vital river port on the Black River and a stop on the Southwest Trail. However, bypassed by the Southwest Trail and with the county seat moving to Jackson in 1830, the town faded into obscurity.Today, little remains above ground, but archaeological excavations have unearthed streets, foundations, and artifacts that tell the story of life on the early Arkansas frontier. The park's visitor center features exhibits of these finds, along with a replica of an 1820s hunter-trapper flatboat, providing context to the town's history. Full-size "ghost structures" outline the locations of former buildings, allowing visitors to imagine the town as it once was.Visitors can explore the park's trails, including the Historic Townsite Trail, which winds through the old town square with interpretive panels detailing Davidsonville's significance. The Black River Trail offers a scenic walk along the river, passing the Phillips/Reeves Cemetery, believed to have been used during Davidsonville's heyday. Fishing is a popular activity, with access to the Black River and a 12-acre fishing lake. Pedal boats are available for rent. The park also offers camping facilities, picnic areas, and playgrounds.