Davidsonville Historic State Park

Frontier history and modern-day recreation merge at Davidsonville, once home to Arkansas’s first post office and one of the earliest courthouses. Little of Davidsonville’s existence is evident above ground; archeological excavations here are still uncovering streets, foundations, and artifacts. Fishing is a major activity here as the park borders the Black River and a fishing lake. Pedal boats are available for rent. The new visitor center features a replica 1820s hunter-trapper flatboat, audio tour, and a display of historic finds from archeological digs. Trails, picnic areas, and a newly renovated campground with 20 campsites add to the amenities.

Camping

The campground has a total of 20 sites. Twelve of the sites have water, 50-amp electric, and sewer. Eight sites have water and 50-amp electric. The primitive tent area has 10 sites which has access to water and the bathhouse but no electric hook-ups. A modern bathhouse and sanitary dump station are in the campground.

Fishing and Boating

The Black River and nearby
Spring and Eleven Point Rivers are noted for a variety of fish. A free launch ramp on the Black River is available. Visitors are welcome to explore the many shoals and eddies along these beautiful rivers. Additionally, an earthen dam forms a 12-acre fishing lake that is stocked with catfish, bass and crappie. Visitors may rent non-motorized fishing boats or pedal boats (seasonal) at the visitor center. A barrier-free fishing pier is on the lake

Canoe Rental Service

Canoes with life jackets and paddles may be rented at the visitor center for floating the Black River or for exploring the in-park 12-acre lake. (Note: River float rental fees include put-in and haul-back service. Please call before coming to check on river conditions and availability of rentals. 24-hour reservations are required).

Picnicking

Davidsonville Historic State Park is one of the largest and most popular picnic spots in the area. Visitors enjoy spreading their picnic fare on tables under the shade of the oaks along the lake. Two screened pavilions are available for reservation, for a nominal fee, for group functions or family affairs. A deposit is required. Two playgrounds are near the picnic area and the pavilions

Trails

Historic Townsite Trail: 1/2-mile, easy, paved, barrier-free.
Scott Cemetery Trail: 1/2-mile, easy: walk to this post-Civil War cemetery.
Trapper Lake Trail: 1 mile, easy to moderate: Meanders around the 12-acre lake. A brochure is available.
Black River Trail: 1.5 miles, easy to moderate: Wanders through the woods, along the banks of the Black River, and passes the historic Philips-Reeves Cemetery. A brochure is available.