Hartford ArkansasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Hartford, Arkansas.
1. LeFlore County Museum
RICH LOCAL HISTORY COLLECTION
LeFlore County Museum houses a fascinating collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the region's rich history. Visitors can explore displays highlighting the cultural heritage, industrial development, and notable historical events that shaped LeFlore County. The museum offers an educational experience for history enthusiasts of all ages.
2. Heavener Runestone Park
ANCIENT VIKING MYSTERY
Heavener Runestone Park features a mysterious stone with ancient runic inscriptions that some believe were carved by Vikings. The park encompasses beautiful woodland trails, picnic areas, and an interpretive center explaining the controversial origins of the runestone. Visitors can enjoy both the historical mystery and natural beauty of the Ouachita Mountains.
3. Old Washington State Park
CONFEDERATE CAPITOL LANDMARK
Old Washington State Park preserves the historic town that served as Arkansas's Confederate capital during the Civil War. The park includes numerous restored buildings including the 1836 structure that was the Confederate State Capitol, offering a glimpse into 19th-century life through guided tours. Visitors can experience living history demonstrations and special events throughout the year.
4. Fort Southerland
CIVIL WAR FORTIFICATION
Fort Southerland is a preserved Civil War fortification located on Bradley Ferry Road near Camden. Originally built by Confederate troops, it was later used and improved by Union forces during their occupation of Camden. The site offers visitors an authentic glimpse into military engineering and strategy during the Camden Expedition of 1864.
5. Fort Lookout
HISTORIC MILITARY OUTPOST
Fort Lookout stands as a testament to Civil War military history on Van Buren Road near Camden. This strategic fortification was constructed by Southern forces and later utilized by Union troops during the Federal occupation. The site provides panoramic views and insight into the military significance of Camden during the Civil War.
6. Hartford Music Company Building
GOSPEL MUSIC HERITAGE
The Hartford Music Company Building represents an important piece of American gospel music history in Sebastian County. During the early 20th century, this company published influential gospel music and operated a singing school that shaped Southern musical traditions. Visitors can learn about the development of shape-note singing and gospel publishing that originated from this historic site.
7. Prairie D'Ane Battlefield
CIVIL WAR SKIRMISH SITE
Prairie D'Ane Battlefield preserves the site of significant Civil War confrontations that occurred April 9-12, 1864. This National Historic Landmark marks where Confederate and Union forces clashed, ultimately blunting the Union's drive toward Louisiana. The battlefield offers historical interpretation of the Camden Expedition and its impact on the region's Civil War experience.
8. Elkins Ferry Battlefield
HISTORIC RIVER CROSSING
Elkins Ferry Battlefield commemorates a crucial Civil War engagement at the Little Missouri River crossing point. Located 10 miles north of Prescott at the Clark-Nevada County line, this site saw Federal troops crossing against determined Confederate resistance on April 3-4, 1864. The preserved battlefield provides visitors with interpretive information about this key moment in the Camden Expedition.
9. Old U.S. Arsenal
HISTORIC MILITARY BUILDING
The Old U.S. Arsenal Building stands at 9th and Commerce streets as an important Civil War landmark in Little Rock. This National Historic Landmark served as the starting point for Frederick Steele's Union troops during the Camden Expedition of 1864. The preserved arsenal building offers visitors insight into military operations and supply logistics during the Civil War era.
10. Sugarloaf Mountain Overlook
SCENIC MOUNTAIN VIEWS
Sugarloaf Mountain Overlook provides breathtaking panoramic views of the distinctive mountain formation visible from Hartford. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, photography opportunities, and picnic areas while taking in the natural beauty of the Ozark landscape. The overlook is particularly stunning during sunrise and sunset when the mountain is bathed in golden light.
11. Poteau Mountain Wilderness
UNSPOILED NATURE RETREAT
Poteau Mountain Wilderness offers outdoor enthusiasts a pristine natural environment with hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities near Hartford. The mountain provides a scenic backdrop to the town and serves as a popular destination for nature photography, birding, and seasonal wildflower observation. Visitors can experience the ecological diversity that characterizes this beautiful region of western Arkansas.
12. Hartford Coal Mine Exhibit
LAST WORKING COAL MINE
The Hartford Coal Mine Exhibit showcases the history and operations of the last working coal mine in Arkansas. Visitors can learn about the town's rich mining heritage, including the infamous Hartford coal mine riot of 1914 and the election of Arkansas's first socialist mayor, Peter Stewart, a miner. The exhibit features authentic mining equipment, historical photographs, and personal accounts from local mining families.
13. West Hartford Historic District
ORIGINAL TOWN SETTLEMENT
West Hartford Historic District preserves the original settlement area commonly known as "Old Town" or "West Hartford." Visitors can see historical structures including the site of William J. Fleming and William Stevenson's first store and the Union Church building once used by Methodists, Baptists, and Cumberland Presbyterians. Walking tours highlight the district's 19th-century architecture and the early development of the community before its 1900 incorporation.
14. Poteau Convention & Visitors Bureau
REGIONAL TOURISM HUB
The Poteau Convention & Visitors Bureau serves as the central information point for tourists exploring the broader Hartford region. Visitors can collect maps, brochures, and personalized recommendations for attractions, dining, and accommodations throughout Sebastian County and neighboring areas. The knowledgeable staff provides insights into local events, seasonal activities, and lesser-known points of interest worth exploring.
15. Hartford Union Church
HISTORIC SHARED WORSHIP SPACE
Hartford Union Church represents an important piece of the town's religious heritage dating back to the late 19th century. This historic church building was uniquely designed to be shared by Methodist, Baptist, and Cumberland Presbyterian congregations serving the early settlers. The preserved structure features traditional architectural elements and stands as a testament to the cooperative spirit of Hartford's founding community.