Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park preserves one of the most intact Civil War battlefields in the country — the site of the December 1862 Battle of Prairie Grove, just west of Fayetteville. With a free museum, historic buildings, and walking and driving tours across 1,000+ acres, it’s a moving, well-kept stop for history lovers and families alike.
About the Battlefield
On December 7, 1862, thousands of Union and Confederate soldiers fought here in a bloody, inconclusive battle that effectively ended major Confederate efforts to control Northwest Arkansas. Because the ground has been protected, the rolling fields, orchards, and ridgeline remain remarkably intact — making Prairie Grove one of America’s best-preserved battlefields and a National Historic Landmark.
Things to Do
- Hindman Hall Museum — exhibits, artifacts, and a battle orientation (free).
- Driving & walking tours — a self-guided battlefield tour past key sites and monuments.
- Historic buildings — restored 19th-century structures, including the Morrow and Latta houses (some tours ticketed).
- Special events — the famous battle reenactment (held in even-numbered years, early December) and the annual Clothesline Fair over Labor Day weekend.
Admission & Hours
- Admission: Free — park entry and the museum are free (guided historic-home tours may have a small fee).
- Museum: Generally open Wednesday–Saturday 8 a.m.–5 p.m. and Sunday afternoons; closed Monday–Tuesday.
- Grounds: Open daily to about an hour after sunset.
- Location: About 15–20 minutes west of Fayetteville in the town of Prairie Grove.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Prairie Grove Battlefield free?
Yes — park entry and the Hindman Hall Museum are free. Some guided historic-home tours have a small fee.
When is the Prairie Grove reenactment?
The battle reenactment is held biennially, in even-numbered years, on the first weekend of December.
What are the museum hours?
The museum is generally open Wednesday through Saturday 8 a.m.–5 p.m. and Sunday afternoons; it’s closed Monday and Tuesday. Grounds are open daily.
What happened at the Battle of Prairie Grove?
An 1862 Civil War battle that helped secure Northwest Arkansas for the Union; the battlefield is one of the best-preserved in the country.
Location & Directions
- Address: 506 E Douglas St, Prairie Grove, AR 72753
- Phone: (479) 846-2990
- Admission: Free
- Official site: Arkansas State Parks
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