Background

Poison Springs Battleground State Park: A Civil War Memorial

Explore a Civil War battleground in Arkansas, with interpretive trails and exhibits detailing a key event in the Camden Expedition.

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Poison Springs Battleground State Park commemorates the site of the Battle of Poison Spring, a Civil War engagement that took place on April 18, 1864. Part of the Camden Expedition, the battleground serves as a reminder of the conflict and its impact on the region. Visitors can explore the park's interpretive exhibits and walk the trails to learn about the battle and the lives of those who fought here.

A brief summary to Poison Springs Battleground State Park

Local tips

  • Visit the park's visitor center for information and context about the Battle of Poison Spring.
  • Take a walk on the short trail to experience the landscape and learn about the battle through interpretive signs.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the park.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Poison Springs Battleground State Park is located on Arkansas Highway 76, approximately 14 miles northwest of Camden. From Camden, take AR-76 West. The park will be on both sides of the highway. There is no fee to enter the park.

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Discover more about Poison Springs Battleground State Park

Poison Springs Battleground State Park, located near Chidester, Arkansas, preserves the site of the Battle of Poison Spring, a significant event in the Civil War's Camden Expedition. This battleground offers a glimpse into the past, allowing visitors to reflect on the events that unfolded here and their impact on the course of the war. The park features interpretive exhibits that detail the battle, including the Confederate ambush of Union troops and the tragic loss of life, particularly among the African American soldiers of the First Kansas Colored Infantry. A short trail leads visitors through the area, providing a sense of the landscape as it was during the conflict. The park encompasses 85 acres, with the battle itself covering a much larger area. The name "Poison Spring" has uncertain origins, with legends suggesting the water was poisoned, though contemporary accounts don't confirm this. Today, the park offers a place for quiet reflection and remembrance, with picnic facilities available for visitors. It serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made during the Civil War and the importance of preserving this history for future generations. The park is part of the Camden Expedition Sites National Historic Landmark.

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