Arkansas County: History, Culture, and Nature

Arkansas Post marks important early milestones in the history of the lower Mississippi Valley: it was the first European settlement in the valley and was selected in 1819 as the first capital of the Arkansas Territory. In Arkansas County, these historical themes come together with the history of the Grand Prairie, arts offerings, and experiences on the water. You can therefore plan your stay around history, exhibitions, or outdoor activities.

Arkansas Post and the History of the Region

The Arkansas Post National Memorial preserves restored sections of the 19th-century town. A viewpoint offers a view of the Arkansas River. Old Post Road is the main access road to the Memorial. The grounds are open daily from 7 a.m. until sunset; check the hours before your visit, as they may change.

The Arkansas Post Museum includes five exhibition buildings about life on the Grand Prairie and in the Arkansas Delta from 1877 to the present. One of them is the Refeld-Hinman Loghouse: built in 1877, the dogtrot cabin is furnished in 19th-century style. Admission to the museum is free.

The Museum of the Arkansas Grand Prairie focuses on a different historical period. A memorial to the pioneers of the prairie, it holds more than 10,000 artifacts and presents the history of agriculture and of the pioneers who farmed the Grand Prairie in eastern Arkansas from the 19th century through 1921. Together, the two museums offer different perspectives on life and work in the region over time.

Art, Architecture, and a Historic Event

At the Arts Center of the Grand Prairie, you can visit exhibitions featuring works by local and regional artists. The Center offers year-round classes in pottery, visual arts, photography, abstract art, and mixed media. In addition to the historical museums, art enthusiasts have another reason to explore the county’s cultural offerings.

The Arkansas County Courthouse, Southern District, is part of the county’s architectural heritage. It was built in 1931–1932 and is individually listed on the National Register. Another chapter in local history is marked by the first national duck-calling contest: it took place on November 24, 1936, on Main Street in Stuttgart, Arkansas, in connection with the annual Arkansas Rice Carnival. The date and event setting give the contest a firm place in Stuttgart’s history.

Paddling, Hiking, and Wildlife Watching

When water levels are safe, the bayous of the Arkansas Post Water Trail are suitable for paddling on calm water; no shuttle vehicle is required. Dale Bumpers White River National Wildlife Refuge also has a 3.3-mile paddling trail at H Lake. Its stated length makes this a specific option for anyone who wants to include a measured paddling route in their plans.

The Champion Baldcypress Tree Trail is in the South Unit of the same refuge. The 2.8-mile trail is an out-and-back route. Seasonal flooding can affect conditions; check them before your hike. The two trails therefore offer different activities: paddling at H Lake and a designated out-and-back route on foot.

At Dale Bumpers White River National Wildlife Refuge, wildlife can be observed from a wildlife drive and an observation tower in the Demonstration Area. The Demonstration Area is open from March 1 through October 31. If wildlife watching is part of your travel plans, take this period into account when planning your visit.

Fishing at Cook’s Lake is available to youth under 16, anglers with mobility impairments, and up to two companions. Anglers can use a 140-foot accessible pier or a boat launch. Registration by phone is required at least one day in advance. These specific participation and registration requirements can help you plan a fishing visit.

Whether you are especially interested in the history of Arkansas Post, the Grand Prairie, arts offerings, or outdoor activities, these different highlights give your trip planning a clear direction and help you choose experiences that suit your stay.

Explore more destinations: Gillett, Stuttgart, Craighead, Randolph County, Columbia County, Lawrence County, Polk County, Van Buren County.

Return to the state travel overview: Arkansas.