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Davidsonville Historic State Park, Upper Delta Travel Guide

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Explore Arkansas's frontier past at Davidsonville Historic State Park, where history comes alive through exhibits, trails, and outdoor recreation.

Davidsonville Historic State Park in Pocahontas, Arkansas, preserves the site of the early 19th-century frontier town of Davidsonville, one of the first settlements in the Arkansas Territory. Founded in 1815, the town was once a vital river port and home to the territory's first post office, courthouse, and land office. Though little remains above ground, archaeological excavations reveal the town's fascinating history.

A brief summary to Davidsonville Historic State Park

  • 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
Eve
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 visitor center to see the replica 1820s flatboat and learn about the town's history through archaeological finds.
  • Hike the Historic Townsite Trail to see the 'ghost structures' that outline the town's original buildings.
  • Bring your fishing gear and try your luck in the Black River or the park's 12-acre fishing lake.
  • Consider camping at the park to fully immerse yourself in the natural surroundings and enjoy the park's amenities.
  • Check the park's website or call ahead for information on seasonal events and programs.

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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 Highway 166. From U.S. Highway 63 at Black Rock, take State Highway 361. The final stretch of Highway 166 is a scenic, unlit road, so exercise caution when driving at night. 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

    While public transportation options directly to Davidsonville Historic State Park are limited, you can take a bus to Pocahontas. Black River Area Development (BRAD) provides public transit services in Pocahontas. From the Pocahontas bus stop, you can call BRAD at (870) 892-4547 to schedule a ride to the park, which is about 10 miles south of town. A one-way trip on BRAD within Pocahontas costs $1. Alternatively, you can use a taxi or rideshare service from Pocahontas to reach the park. Be sure to check the availability of rideshare services in the area.

Discover more about Davidsonville Historic State Park

Davidsonville Historic State Park offers a unique blend of frontier history and outdoor recreation on the banks of the Black River. Established in 1957, the 163-acre park safeguards the remains of Davidsonville, a once-thriving town founded in 1815 that quickly became a key hub in the Arkansas Territory.Davidsonville held the distinction of housing the territory's first post office, courthouse, and United States General Land Office. The town thrived as a river port along the Black River, serving as an important stop on the Southwest Trail. However, its prominence was short-lived. By the 1830s, the town was bypassed by a major road, leading to its eventual abandonment.Today, visitors can explore the park's exhibits and interpretive programs to learn about this significant frontier town. The visitor center features a replica of an 1820s flatboat and displays artifacts unearthed during archaeological digs. Walking trails wind through the old town site, with "ghost structures" outlining former buildings. Fishing is a popular activity, with access to the Black River and a 12-acre fishing lake. The park also offers camping, picnic areas, and hiking trails.

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