Davidsonville Historic State Park Upcoming Events
First Day Hike! January 1, 2014 from 2pm-3pm
Davidsonville Historic State Park will sponsor a free, guided hike on New Year’s Day as part of America’s State Parks First Day Hikes initiative in all 50 states. America’s State Parks First Day Hikes offer individuals and families an opportunity to begin the New Year rejuvenating and connecting with the outdoors by taking a healthy hike at a state park close to home. First Day Hikes offer a great way to get outside, exercise, enjoy nature and welcome the New Year with friends and family.
Would you like to start the New Year by being more active? Do you enjoy nature? If so, come join us at Davidsonville Historic State Park for a guided hike on Trapper Lake Trail. Trapper Lake Trail is a 1 mile hike that circles the lake. You can enjoy scenic views of the lake and walk under a forest canopy while watching for the variety of wildlife that inhabits the park. Bring your kids and friends and walk off all those holiday treats! Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Pets are welcome as long as they are kept on a leash.
Whether you are a first time visitor to our park or a regular, we hope you will join us January 1 for a healthy start to the New Year. Meeting place will be at the Visitor Center and hot chocolate will be provided at the end of the hike.
Historic Townsite Tour!
January 11, 2014 from 2pm-3pm
Join park staff for a tour of the Davidsonville Townsite and explore the mysteries of the past. The town of Davidsonville was established in 1815 and was the earliest platted town in Arkansas. Also home to the first post office, the first land office and the first courthouse in Arkansas, Davidsonville was a town of many firsts. Unfortunately the town was abandoned by 1830, but during its brief lifetime it was a bustling community that depended on trade and court sessions for its survival.
Nothing remains of the town above ground, but the many artifacts that were left buried beneath the soil tell us much about the town and the people who lived there. Through archeological digs we have learned the location of the courthouse, one of several taverns or inns, and a large residence that possibly served as the first post office of Arkansas. Many personal items belonging to the residents of the town have also been discovered, giving us a glimpse into life on the frontier.
If you are interested in learning more about the town of Davidsonville then please mark your calendars for this tour. Topics discussed will be the establishment of Davidsonville, early residents, and the settlement of Arkansas. Pets are welcome but must be on a leash. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Come join us for this free tour and find out more about the rich history of this area.
