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Pea Ridge National Military Park: Hallowed Ground of the Civil War

Explore the pivotal 1862 Civil War battlefield at Pea Ridge National Military Park, where the fate of Missouri and the West was decided.

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Preserving the site of the pivotal 1862 Battle of Pea Ridge, this Arkansas park offers a poignant journey into Civil War history. Explore the battlefield, visitor center, and reconstructed Elkhorn Tavern to understand the conflict that shaped the nation's destiny in the West.

A brief summary to Pea Ridge National Military Park

Local tips

  • Begin your visit at the visitor center to watch the orientation film and explore the museum before touring the battlefield.
  • Drive the 7-mile tour road to experience the key points of the battlefield, allowing at least 30 minutes for the drive.
  • Wear comfortable shoes and bring water, especially if you plan to walk the trails.
  • Check the weather forecast before visiting, as conditions can change rapidly in the Ozark Mountains.
  • Pets are welcome but must be leashed and are not allowed in buildings.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Pea Ridge National Military Park is located near Garfield, Arkansas. From Interstate 49, take US Highway 62 East and follow the brown road signs directing you to the park entrance, approximately 1.3 miles east of the intersection of Highways 62 and 72. Parking is available at the visitor center and at each tour stop. There are no entrance fees.

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Discover more about Pea Ridge National Military Park

Pea Ridge National Military Park, located in the Ozark Mountains of northwest Arkansas, safeguards the site of the Battle of Pea Ridge, fought March 7-8, 1862. This crucial Civil War engagement saw Union forces defeat Confederate troops, securing Missouri for the Union and impacting the war's trajectory in the Trans-Mississippi Theater. The park encompasses 4,300 acres, preserving a remarkable portion of the original battlefield. Visitors can explore the landscape via a 7-mile driving tour with 10 stops, walking trails, and a horse trail, each offering unique perspectives on the battle. The visitor center features a museum with updated exhibits, artifacts from the battle, and a film, "Thunder in the Ozarks," providing historical context. Key points of interest include the reconstructed Elkhorn Tavern, which served as a field hospital during the battle, and the Trail of Tears segment within the park, a reminder of the Native American experience. The park's well-preserved state allows visitors to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the Civil War era, gaining insight into the strategies, sacrifices, and human cost of the conflict. Pea Ridge stands as a testament to a nation divided and the enduring quest for unity.

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