Pea Ridge National Military Park in Garfield, Arkansas

Pea Ridge National Military Park in Garfield, Arkansas is a historical travel destination you should consider visiting. The Battle at Pea Ridge was fought over two brutal days in March of 1862. More than 23,000 soldiers battled here, deciding Missouri’s fate. The over-4000-acre battlefield pays homage to those who sacrificed their lives in this pivotal battle of our Civil War. Pea Ridge remains one of the United States’ most well-preserved Civil War battlegrounds.

There are many stories surrounding the Battle at Pea Ridge. And they aren’t just stories about generals and their tactics. These are the stories of soldiers who volunteered to fight – soldiers on both sides. These stories are about civilians who watched as battles raged on their farmland and welcomed wounded men into their homes. You can learn more about these courageous people and their stories through the biographies of battle leaders and the diaries of the soldiers. If you can’t visit but would still like to learn about Pea Ridge, you can virtually tour the battleground. Soldiers’ stories include those of Henry Dysart, Asa Payne, and Isaac Smith.

Many of the soldiers of Pea Ridge were from tiny towns and they’d never been more than 20 miles from home when they joined the forces. They had been farmers and merchants, teachers and lawyers, and numerous other professions prior to enlistment.

In the earliest stages of the Civil War, each soldier voluntarily fought. Many were simply patriotic, while others believed in preserving the Union and the 2nd Amendment. Others still simply wanted to escape their small-town life. Some dreamt of glory and others didn’t want to be looked upon as cowards – but none believed the war would be long or deadly.

As with all travel plans, it’s best to plan ahead if you plan to visit Pea Ridge National Military Park in Garfield, Arkansas. Contact the park staff prior to your arrival. You can phone the staff at Pea Ridge National Military Park in Garfield, Arkansas at 479-451-8122.

The Pea Ridge Visitors Center is currently closed but the battlegrounds are open to the public. Check back often for updates.