ARKANSAS POST

OUR 31st PARK IN OUR 14th STATE WAS ARKANSAS POST NATIONAL MEMORIAL near Dumas or Gillett, AR, basically in the middle of nowhere.

 By the late 1600's European powers were racing to carve up the new world.  In 1686 the French moved south from the St. Lawrence Valley to plant the first European settlement in the lower Mississippi Valley.  Arkansas Post was to be a staging point for Mississippi River trade between New France and the Gulf of Mexico.  Over the two centuries of the settlement's life the events surrounding it typified the conflicts and changes that transformed precarious European trading posts and garrisons into new American towns.

 Although this is a beautiful place it is hard to justify it as a National Park.  The Arkansas River changed it course and left this place high and dry in the middle of nowhere.  I don't know where the people come from who visit this park unless they are doing something like we are doing.

And tell me, does this sound inviting?
Swimming is prohibited. Fishing is allowed but the launching, beaching, or landing of any vessel is prohibited, except in an emergency.  Pets must be on a leash or physically restraned at all times.  Stay on the trails, because of ticks, chiggers and poison ivy.  Watch for mosquitos and biting flies, use repellent and wear protective clothing.  Alligators and snakes, live here including three species of poisonous snakes.  Stay on the trails and watch where you put your hands and feet.  No camping.
In case of an emergency call 911  (I have no idea where help would come from and we had no phone service)  You might forget visiting this park and read about it on the internet!!

Bye! on to the next park....