The park commemorates key events that occurred on site and nearby: the first semi-permanent European settlement in the lower Mississippi Valley (1686); a Revolutionary War engagement (1783); the first Territorial capital of Arkansas (1819-1821); and Arkansas's largest (by number of combatants) Civil War engagement: the Battle of Arkansas Post (1863.) The park includes three miles of trails and wayside exhibits. Living history events include interpreters dressed in era-appropriate costumes and many include cannon firings of both Revolutionary War cannons and Civil War cannons. Please check the Schedule of Events for dates and times.
The 389 acre Memorial Unit grounds (which also includes the Visitor Center) provides visitors the opportunity to view wildlife (deer, alligators, armadillos and a host of other small animals.) Birding is especially good during the Spring and Fall when migratory birds make a stop at Arkansas Post during their long flights between their winter and summer habitats.
This area is also the spiritual homeland of the Quapaw Tribe. The park tells the story of the Tribe that met and greeted several French explorers (la Salle, de Tonti and earlier Marquette and Joliet) in the 1600s. The Quapaw return to the Memorial from time to time to present authentic renditions of their history and culture.
It is suggested that visitors plan an extended visit to the park in order to take in all the exhibits, trails, the park's 20 minute orientation film and a picnic in the park picnic area. . There is also fishing in the surrounding waters that attracts many fishermen to the park. While there are no boat launching ramps in the park, Several are nearby at Moore Bayou and Pendleton. All activities, programs and movies are free.
Official Great River Road Interpretive Center
The Great River Road National Scenic Byway follows the course of the Mississippi River for 3,000 miles from northern Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico. The scenic route passes through 10 states and hundreds of river towns. Learn more >