Pea Ridge National Military Park is the only National Park Service site in Northwest Arkansas — and one of the most intact Civil War battlefields in the entire country. On these 4,300 acres northeast of Rogers, the March 1862 Battle of Pea Ridge secured Missouri for the Union. Today it’s a free, beautifully preserved park with a 7-mile driving tour, hiking trails, a museum, and the historic Elkhorn Tavern.
About the Battlefield
Over two days in March 1862, some 26,000 soldiers clashed here in one of the most significant battles west of the Mississippi. The Union victory effectively secured Missouri for the North. Because the land was never developed, the battlefield remains remarkably unchanged — rolling fields, woods, and the reconstructed Elkhorn Tavern look much as they did in 1862, making it a moving and immersive place to walk through history.
Things to Do
- 7-mile self-guided auto tour — a loop with 10 stops and interpretive exhibits across the battlefield; plan 1–2 hours.
- Visitor center museum & film — artifacts, a battle map, and an orientation film to set the scene.
- Elkhorn Tavern — the reconstructed landmark at the heart of the fighting.
- Hiking & horseback trails — about 7 miles of hiking trails and 9 miles of horse trails.
- Junior Ranger program — a great way to engage kids.
Admission & Hours
- Admission: Free — there is no entrance fee.
- Grounds: Open 8 a.m.–5 p.m. year-round.
- Visitor center: Open daily (reduced days in winter); closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.
- No camping in the park.
- Best time: Spring and fall for comfortable weather and color.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Pea Ridge cost?
It’s free — there is no entrance fee to Pea Ridge National Military Park.
How far is Pea Ridge from Bentonville and Rogers?
The park is near Garfield, about 20–30 minutes northeast of both Rogers and Bentonville via US Highway 62.
How long does the Pea Ridge auto tour take?
Plan 1–2 hours for the 7-mile self-guided loop with its 10 exhibit stops; add time for the visitor center and any hiking.
What was the Battle of Pea Ridge?
A two-day battle in March 1862 in which the Union victory secured Missouri for the North — one of the most decisive and best-preserved Civil War battlefields in the country.
Location & Directions
- Address: 15930 E Hwy 62, Garfield, AR 72732
- Admission: Free | Grounds: 8 a.m.–5 p.m.
- Official site: nps.gov/peri
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