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Nature|Parks & Gardens

Pea Ridge National Military Park Might Just Be The Most Haunted Park In Arkansas

Pea Ridge National Military Park, a well-preserved Civil War battlefield, is known for its historical significance and reported paranormal activity.

Published Apr 2, 2021

Written by 

Marla S.

In 1862, during the American Civil War, Pea Ridge National Military Park was the site of a major battle between the north and the south. Over 20,000 soldiers took part in the fight which led to thousands of men losing their lives.

Nowadays, Pea Ridge National Military Park visitors have claimed to hear voices that sound like shouting. Guests to the park have also said to hear the sounds of drums and gunfire. Furthermore, other guests have said to have the feeling as if they're being followed during their time at the park.

Since thousands of soldiers died in the battle, it makes sense that their spirits might linger. If your curiosity to meet these ghosts is getting the best of you, read on to learn more about Pea Ridge National Military Park.

To reach Pea Ridge National Military Park, head to 15930 E Hwy 62

in Garfield, Arkansas.

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Flickr/Tanya Impeartrice

Once you arrive, keep your eyes and ears open for sounds from soldiers who fought during the battle.

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From this vantage point, it looks like there's a bit of mystery surrounding the battlefield.

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Flickr/Nic McPhee

The battleground at Pea Ridge National Military Park is one of the best maintained in the country.

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Flickr/Pea Ridge_credit National Park Service

Take a look at this close up of a cannon. Perhaps it's one that's been heard shot by ghosts in the middle of the night.

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Flickr/Nic McPhee

Here's a view of Wire Road. During the Civil War, soldiers set off on this route to battle.

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National Park Service

This reconstruction, named the The Elkhorn Tavern, was used as a field hospital during the Civil War.

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Flickr/Nic McPhee

This gorgeous view of the park is an out-of-this-world setting for ghosts to reside during the day.

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Flickr/Nic McPhee

Along with exploring for paranormal activity, the park has tons of trails for hiking and educational events for the entire family.

To learn more about Pea Ridge National Military Park's hours and admission, visit here.

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Nature|National & State Parks

Explore One Of Arkansas’ Cleanest Lakes At Lake Fort Smith State Park

Did you know that Lake Fort Smith in Mountainburg is one of Arkansas' cleanest lakes? It's true! This pretty oasis has lots of adventure.

Published Aug 26, 2024

Written by 

Melanie Johnson

We’ve mentioned before that there are over 2,300 named lakes in Arkansas. Many of these waterways are a source for recreational activities including swimming, boating, fishing, kayaking, scuba diving, and more. However, there is one major Arkansas lake where swimming is prohibited and that is Lake Fort Smith in Mountainburg. Tucked inside Lake Fort Smith State Park, this pretty gem is a source of water for the Fort Smith community, making it one of Arkansas' cleanest lakes. And though there is no swimming here, there are lots of other adventures for you to enjoy. Come check it out!

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At only 260-acres, Lake Fort Smith State Park isn’t the biggest state park, but it’s certainly one of the prettiest.

A scenic view of a park by a lake, featuring green hills, picnic areas, and a parking lot under a clear blue sky.
Arkansas State Parks/Facebook

Nestled inside the Boston Mountain Valley, the park was named after the 1,400-acre lake - Lake Fort Smith.

Aerial view of a serene lake surrounded by colorful autumn foliage and rolling hills under a clear blue sky.
Josh Spurgers/Google

Built in the 1930s, the lake was created as a source of water for the Fort Smith community.

A serene lake surrounded by lush green trees and rolling hills under a clear blue sky. Reflections on the water.
Kathy Rodriguez/AllTrails

This means there is no swimming or wading in the reservoir, so it’s one of the cleanest lakes in the state.

Four kayakers paddle on a calm lake, framed by a cave opening and surrounded by lush green hills.
Experience Fort Smith/Google

Although no swimming is allowed, kayakers and boaters can enjoy floating in the pretty oasis. You’ll discover some really cool spots along the way.

Fishing is also allowed, and the lake is stocked with bass, walleye, crappie, catfish, and bluegill.

An elderly man in a cap sits on a bench, fishing by a calm lake, focused on his rod.
Himanshu Sahoo/Google

If you want to go swimming, don't worry. The park has a large swimming pool with slides and a splash pad that the entire family can enjoy.

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A swimming pool with a water slide, surrounded by lounge chairs and trees, with people enjoying the water.
Kathy Emerson/Google

Want to stretch your legs? Explore one of the scenic trails inside the park. Some even offer views of the lake.

A child stands on a path in a lush green forest, looking towards a wooden bridge ahead.
Michael Preston/Google

Don’t skip over the 8,000 square foot visitor center. There is a lot for you to explore here.

A vintage wooden wagon with a white canopy, displayed indoors, featuring a colorful blanket and wooden wheels.
Kadillak Williams/Google

The overlook and picnic areas offer pretty views of the lake. They’re great spots to sit and bask in all the lake’s glory.

Scenic view of a lake surrounded by green hills, with a picnic area and parking lot in the foreground.
Tim M Nelson/Google

Did you know that Lake Fort Smith is one of Arkansas’ cleanest lakes? Have you been to Lake Fort Smith State Park before? Tell us below.

Want more adventure in Arkansas? Check out these incredible state parks that will blow your mind.

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Nature|Parks & Gardens

The Secret Garden In Arkansas You’re Guaranteed To Love

Blue Spring Heritage Center in Eureka Springs, AR, is a stunning botanical garden with rich history and magical scenery.

Updated Jul 17, 2024

Written by 

J.B. VanDyke

The Natural State is full of stunning natural places. From state parks to botanical gardens to mountain vistas and scenic lakes, there are literally hundreds of places where you can explore the beauty of nature here in Arkansas. Now it's time to add a secret garden in Arkansas to your list. That place is Blue Spring Heritage Center in Eureka Springs, AR, and we guarantee that you’re going to absolutely love it! Many say it is one of the best gardens in Arkansas.

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Blue Spring Heritage Garden is 33 acres of botanical gardens centered around Blue Spring and the gorgeous lagoon it pours into.

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Tripadvisor/sharonsartin

This hidden gem has been a tourist attraction since 1948, but the tradition of visiting the spring dates back centuries for the Native American tribes who lived in the region.

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Tripadvisor/crystalw07

In fact, there’s a cliff shelter at the center that is actually listed on the National Register of Historic Places!

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Tripadvisor/Nita A.

The Native American tradition of visiting the spring traces from centuries ago to the 1830s during the Trail of Tears and continues on today. You’ll learn so much about the history of the spring on your visit. They specialize in the rich history of the spring and the region in which it flows.

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Tripadvisor/CrystalW07

In the mid-1800s, Blue Spring was home to a working gristmill, and that history is also preserved at the heritage center.

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Travel179381/TripAdvisor

Blue Spring Heritage Garden features over a mile of gorgeous trails that will take you through the botanical garden.

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Tripadvisor/rob willsee

Blue Spring is a massive spring. It pours 38 million gallons of water into the lagoon each day.

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Tripadvisor/SriabiG

Every bit of that water is clear and cool and they've built absolutely gorgeous structures throughout the gardens.

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Tripadvisor/Kathie M

Mostly what you’ll notice about this enchanting place is how incredibly magical it feels. It is definitely one of the prettiest gardens to visit in Arkansas.

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Facebook/Blue Spring Heritage Center

There’s a timelessness to the grounds, so that when you’re exploring you really do feel a million miles away from it all.

From the smallest floor to the roaring spring, every inch of Blue Spring Heritage Garden is like entering a secret garden. It's an only-in-Arkansas place you really must experience!

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Tripadvisor/sharonsartin

This secret garden in Arkansas really is one of the state’s most beautiful hidden treasures! However, it’s not our only garden oasis. Here’s another gorgeous garden in Arkansas that you're guaranteed to love.

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/arkansas/ar-gwgardens-see-to-believe/

And if you’re looking for more stunning natural springs in Arkansas, check out this underground walking tour through Eureka Springs.

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