Davidsonville Historic State Park
Lovely spot for camping or day outing at the site of first post office and settlement in the Arkansas Territory
Check out the slide shows, pictures, videos, and information below.
Historic Davidsonville was established in 1815. All that remains today of this site are a few foundation remnants and some ghost structures erected at the sites of the first post office and courthouse of the Arkansas Territory and signs that explain the importance of the frontier village. Today the park also includes a 12-acre fishing lake, a campground, picnic area and some trails. If you want to stay in a motel, Pocahontas, Arkansas is very close by. Check out the Arkansas State Parks website for more information and to make reservations.
After the Louisiana Purchase was made in 1803, this little village was established in the frontier in the Arkansas Territory in 1815. It thrived for about fifteen years when it slowly faded as the Southwest Trail from St. Louis to Mexican by passed this town. The first post office, courthouse, and land office of the Arkansas Territory was set up here. The archeological excavations have uncovered streets, foundations, and artifacts that tell the story of this community. A self-guided trail helps the visitor to learn about this community along the Black River. At the visitor center this display quotes a diary entry from 1821. Below is a replica of a boat found along the river during this early period.
The historic village has a self guided tour for those interested in the frontier history. At right, Dick stands at the entrance sign to the village. To the left, Arlene walks up to the ghost structure where the old brick courthouse stood. Below a plaque about the importance of this community as the first post office of the new Arkansas Territory.
Signs explaining the history of Davidsonville along the self guided tour of the village. The picture in the center shows an old photo of a structure that was left in the 1800's.
Below is a view of the 12-acre fishing lake in the park. It has a trail around it, which we hiked. The rocks in the foreground are along the bank that forms the dam for this lake. Below are pictures of this trail and the Black River Trail. There are also picnic areas, playgrounds, pavilions, and boat rentals to enjoy for day trips to the park.
This trail meanders through the woods along the lake. Many views of the lake make an enjoyable hike. People rent paddle boats and kayaks to enjoy the lake. A swim area is provided near the earthen dam.
Where the trail crosses a finger on the lake, bridges are provided. Dick stops to survey the lake at this point.
This area is at the foot of the hilltop where Davidsonville had been settled. It was in flood stage when we visited so we could not hike the trail.
This trail meanders through the woods along the lake. Many views of the lake make an enjoyable hike. People rent paddle boats and kayaks to enjoy the lake. A swim area is provided near the earthen dam.
For a tour of this historic park, watch the 4 1/2 minute video done by Arkie Travels below.