LET'S GO FOR A WALK: PRAIRIE GROVE BATTLEFIELD STATE PARK

Fall is approaching, which means cooler temperatures and great opportunities to go for a walk! I recently took the kids for a walk around the Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park. We live a short 15-minute drive away from a piece of state and national history.

The battlefield park has a great, educational walking trail as well as replicas of the original buildings that once stood on the property. If you’re feeling adventurous, the rangers have set up a cool scavenger hunt on your smartphone. Codes and clues can be found around the park.

Last fall we showcased Kessler Mountain Park as a local area to enjoy a nature walk or bicycle ride. Today I’d like to share another local park perfect for walking… and learning.

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December 7, 1862 marked the last Civil War battle in Northwest Arkansas. Today the park is home to clothesline fairs, a playground, pavilion, community garden, walking trail, as well being an event venue. Take the paved walk trail through the park and learn more about the battle fought there as well as the people who used to call the place home.

BATTLEFIELD TRAIL

At the front of the park is the Hindman Hall Museum. Admission to both the park and museum is free. There are reenactments in December of even-numbered years as well as a Clothesline Fair every September.

We typically go to the fair just to walk around and grab a funnel cake. It was considerably smaller and more spread out this year due to COVID. In years past there have been antique tractor shows.

PRAIRIE GROVE BATTLEFIELD STATE PARK MONUMENT

The focal point of the park is undoubtedly the historic wall and monuments. The wall surrounding the monuments is made from stones from several historic sites in Northwest Arkansas.

The monuments commemorate the 2,700 men who died that day and the generals who led them.

OTHER SITES ON THE TRAIL

The “town” set-up includes a church, schoolhouse, sorghum mill, and blacksmith shop. The walking trail goes right through.

The Latta Barn and other buildings/areas can be rented for private events. My kids really love the playground. It’s a good incentive to get them to walk the trail with me.