Quietly tucked away along the east side of the state is a park unlike any other. This small area will transport you back in time before most of the country was part of the United States. Let's take a field trip to the Louisiana Purchase State Park and learn more about this vital piece of history.

Most of Arkansas' state parks are centered around a mountain or lake. Today's feature is a little different.

This little state park is centered around one historical marker. The Louisiana Purchase State Park may be underrated but it's absolutely worth a family trip.

Address: Arkansas Highway 362, Brinkley, AR 72049

This area wasn't a designated state park until 1961. However, the history goes back much further.

Before officially becoming a state park in the 1960s, a monument was placed in the swamp in the fall of 1926. The monument marks the starting point of the Louisiana Purchase of 1803 land survey.

Today, you can reach the monument by crossing this boardwalk trail.

The boardwalk takes you through the headwater swamp on Little Cypress Creek to reach the marker. The trail is a super short and sweet 950 feet. The paved trail is accessible for strollers, wheelchairs, and any young Arkansan with a short attention span.

The monument isn't the only thing to view along the trail...

Different panels along the trail educated visitors about the uniqueness of the swamp (which is on Arkansas' Registry of Natural Areas) as well as more information about the Louisiana Purchase.

...though it is pretty fascinating to see such an important piece of history!

The inscription reads, "This stone marks the base established Nov. 10, 1815, from which the lands of the Louisiana Purchase were surveyed by United States Engineers. The first survey from this point was made to satisfy the claims of the soldiers of the War of 1812 with land bounties. Erected by the Arkansas Daughters of the American Revolution. Sponsored by the L’Anguille Chapter." One of the main reasons for the survey was to distributing land to veterans of the War of 1812.

This little historical treasure hidden the swamp is such an incredible piece of the past.

No matter if you're taking your children in conjunction with their Louisiana Purchase history homework, enjoying the blend of unique history and nature, or just trying to cross off your 52 state park passport - the Louisiana Purchase State Park is waiting!

Have you seen this monument for yourself? Share your experience with us in the comments below!

Here's another boardwalk trail to enjoy in the state. It's much longer than today's jaunt!