AR State Parks: Louisiana Purchase & Lower White River Museum State Parks

Due to the shortness of content at these 2 State Parks, we are combining them into one trip.

This event IS NOT PET-FRIENDLY.

Our goal in this series is to visit all 52 state parks. This month’s park are:

Louisiana Purchase State Park
AR Hwy 362
Brinkley, AR 72049

AND

Lower White River Museum State Park
2009 Main Street
Des Arc, AR 72040

We will meet at the Bass Pro Pyramid north parking lot off Front Street (the smaller parking lot close to auto bridge over to Mud Island) at 8:45 am for those who would like to carpool. We will leave at 9:00 am.

About Louisiana Purchase State Park:
An important place in history, this National Historic Landmark preserves the initial point from which all surveys of property acquired through the Louisiana Purchase of 1803 originated. An elevated boardwalk above the surrounding headwater swamp leads to the granite monument marking the survey’s starting point. Wayside exhibits tell the story of the Louisiana Purchase, which opened up the American West. Other panels interpret the lowlands and its native flora and fauna. Restroom facilities are located at the trailhead of this day-use park.

About Lower White River Museum State Park:
Discover the role of Arkansas’s White River, with emphasis on the Lower White, as a vital transportation route for early settlers on the Arkansas frontier. Museum exhibits interpret the river’s influence on settlements during the steamboat era and the expansion of commerce from its roots in hunting and fishing into shelling, timber, agriculture, pearling, and button making. Life-sized figures of a steamboat captain, slave, schoolteacher, and land surveyor greet visitors. Admission to the museum is free.

Arkansas State Parks list:
https://www.arkansasstateparks.com/parks

Planned Hike: Louisiana Purchase Boardwalk (National Recreation Trail)
Trail Type: Barrier Free (ADA), Day Hikes
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 3/8 mile round trip
Time: 1/2 hour hiking time
Hiking times may vary.

WHAT TO KNOW
A 950-foot boardwalk leads to the beginning point from which the Louisiana Purchase was surveyed. The headwater cypress swamp is interpreted by signs and wayside exhibits along the boardwalk. This scenic walk is accessible to wheelchairs and is an excellent area for photographing scenery and wildlife. No other facilities are located at this park, except for ADA vault toilet facilities.

Food: Dondie's White River Princess
For those who would like to join us for a meal afterward, we are planning on eating at Dondie's White River Princess, 203 E Curran St, Des Arc, AR 72040
Casual spot offering all-you-can-eat catfish, seafood, and steaks, with river views.