Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park — Attraction in Prairie Grove

After visiting the Pea Ridge National Military Park I was quite impressed with this little state park. Judging the two together I would have to say, that even though this park was smaller in size it really tried to do more. There is a small visitor center with displays and a short movie. I really liked the movie because it showed maps and what happened during battle and where the engagements took place. Something Pea Ridge didn't have. I drove the mile loop around the park but I did not walk the trail loop. I would recommend, if you are interested, to read up on the battle prior to visiting the park. There were some signs about with little to no information as to what had transpired during the battle. You are better off having a book while visiting the battlefield. Although I enjoyed my time here I think this park is really nothing more than a place for the locals to enjoy, more of a park than a battlefield park where you can learn...

My daddy built that fence that wraps around the park. And that tree Infront of the north end of the Borden house, that forks. I raised that tree as a child, that was like my pet. Then one day it was gone!!!! I was very upset... My daddy said I took it to work, I picked out a perfect place for it and it will live until its last day there safely.... Now I go see it every year and bring my son.. my father Gary McConnell worked at battlefield state Park for ten years. He loved that job. They didnt give him a pension, they didn't give him a plaque, they didn't give him anything... He gave his blood and sweat to that place. And up until his death, he still had his heart in that park as do I. And he died never speaking badly of the staff or park. So my feelings are on the fence, the fence my daddy built by hand...... Just him and his boss...

This beautifully maintained park offers peace, gorgeous scenery and a chilling glimpse into the past. It has several areas available for rent for private parties and numerous free areas for interesting and artful backgrounds for photography. There is also a nice playground for younger children, with ample shaded seating areas.

There is a 1 mile moderate difficulty fully paved walking trail. There is some elevation change, so I would l not consider it ideal for those with limited mobility. There are ample other areas that are easy to access though.

The small, but well done museum offers a great lesson and visual experience for homeschoolers and people of all ages. The museum and the park entrance are all free.

Combining Battlefield Park with a stroll through the multitude of antique and interesting shops downtown make for a...