Top 14 Must-Do Activities in Pocahontas, Arkansas

Situated in Randolph County, northeast Arkansas, the town of Pocahontas was established in the early 19th century, originally comprising 800 acres of property owned by a local physician.

Initially named Davidsonville, it is recognized as the oldest town in Arkansas, having established the first post office and courthouse in 1817 and 1818, respectively.

Although modest in size, even by rural standards, Pocahontas possesses its own municipal airport and is conveniently located near the state of Oklahoma, as well as cities such as Little Rock, Jonesboro, and Memphis, making day trips an excellent opportunity to explore the region’s offerings.

Below are 14 noteworthy attractions and activities in and around Pocahontas.

1. AME Church

The AME Church, or African Methodist Episcopal Church, is widely regarded as the first Christian denomination established by African Americans in 1816.

From its inception, the church has championed civil rights, social justice, and educational opportunities—fundamental components of its mission. Being the first church founded on racial rather than theological grounds, it has encountered significant critique throughout its history.

Situated at the Eddie Mae Herron Center in Pocahontas, the historic church offers a unique insight into American and Arkansas history, free of charge, providing a glimpse into the past not readily found elsewhere.

2. Randolph County Heritage Museum

Even for long-standing residents of Pocahontas or Randolph County, the Randolph County Heritage Museum contains numerous lesser-known artifacts and exhibits that provide a unique journey of discovery not found elsewhere in the region.

The museum showcases a variety of artifacts, exhibits, and photographs pertaining to the history of the county, many of which date back nearly 200 years, to a time before Arkansas achieved statehood. Throughout the year, the museum offers educational and instructional programs.

While entry is free, donations are welcome to assist in the maintenance and preservation of both the facility and the displayed items.

3. Davidsonville Historic State Park

The first post office in Arkansas was established in the early 1800s in a town known as Davidsonville, now designated as Pocahontas.

Located along Highway 166, the historic post office site is set on the banks of Trapper Lake. In addition to its historical significance, the park provides opportunities for camping, fishing, picnicking, and has a playground for children.

The park features 20 campsites equipped with essential amenities such as electricity, wastewater disposal, and water supply. With a plethora of activities available, it serves as an engaging place for families to spend a full day.

Visitors are encouraged to start at the visitor center for an informative overview of what life was like on the frontier hundreds of years ago.

4. Rice-Upshaw House

Situated along Highway 93 in Pocahontas, the Rice-Upshaw House and its historical grounds offer visitors a detailed exploration of the challenges and dangers associated with pioneer life that marked the region almost two centuries ago.

Despite its modest size, the property contains numerous artifacts, exhibits, memorabilia, and even firsthand accounts, with much of the historical documentation compiled by dedicated historians and archaeologists.

Few similar sites in the state are so thoroughly documented, allowing visitors to make the most of an hour spent exploring.

5. Pocahontas Colored School

Also located on the grounds of the Eddie Mae Herron Center and Museum in Pocahontas, the Pocahontas Colored School represents another compelling chapter in Arkansas’s pioneer history.

Distinct from many other historic sites, the Pocahontas Colored School integrates history, culture, and pertinent African American issues related to slavery and civil rights into a cohesive narrative.

Positioned at the intersection of Pratt and Archer Streets near the downtown area, the school was originally built in 1865, prior to the abolition of slavery. For a significant portion of its history, the building served as a church, educational institution, and community gathering location for local African Americans.

6. Mammoth Spring State Park

Encompassing 60 acres in Fulton County, Arkansas, Mammoth Spring State Park is a popular destination for swimmers, anglers, and hikers. The park features an informative visitor center, an ideal starting point for exploring its amenities and historical background.

The park also includes a small hydroelectric generator and dam, both of which are intriguing to observe. Guided tours of the facility are offered for those interested in learning how turbines harness energy from flowing water and convert it into electricity.

A renovated train station is located nearby, making it easy to spend several hours enjoying the diverse activities the park has to offer.

7. Cherokee Village

As one of the initial planned recreational communities in Arkansas, Cherokee Village has emerged as a regional landmark for retirees and individuals desiring a resort-style lifestyle year-round.

Developed in the mid-1950s along the banks of the South Fork River, the community spans over 15,000 acres, accommodating about 5,000 residents.

A wide range of amenities are available, including an 18-hole golf course, RV park, ample lake and river access points, and over 100 clubs and special interest groups that convene regularly.

The community takes pride in its neat, orderly environment, low taxes, and minimal crime rates. For visitors interested in exploring, a variety of hotels, restaurants, and local attractions are within close proximity.

8. Crowley Ridge State Park

Featuring extensive walking trails, wooden bridges, and a large playground, Crowley Ridge State Park is an ideal destination for spending several hours, particularly for families with children.

The park boasts a stocked pond, and for those wishing to extend their stay in the picturesque surroundings, cabins are accessible near the shoreline.

Conveniently located along Highway 168 in Paragould, the park is an easy drive from Pocahontas.

Visitors planning a short trip will find covered picnic areas near the water, along with paddle boats available for rent.

9. ASU Museum

The Arkansas State University campus in Jonesboro features the ASU Museum, recognized as one of the most comprehensive repositories of historical and cultural artifacts within the state. It is open year-round at no cost.

The museum is situated within the Dean B. Ellis Library on University Loop. In addition to its permanent collections, it frequently presents temporary exhibits. Educational classes and instruction are offered periodically, many of which are complimentary.

For the latest updates on activities and events, visitors are advised to check the website regularly.

10. Craighead Forest Park

For those seeking a convenient camping experience while exploring the area, Craighead Forest Park presents an excellent option.

Located just outside Jonesboro, the park comprises 26 campsites, equipped with essential facilities including water, waste disposal, and electrical connections. Public areas are available with covered picnic spaces, a playground, restrooms, showers, and grilling areas.

Boasting nearly 15 miles of walking trails, the park is a prime location for outdoor enthusiasts, and various species of birds and wildlife can often be observed, particularly during early morning or late afternoon hours.

11. Forrest L Wood Crowley’s Ridge Nature Center

The Deltas of the Mississippi and Arkansas Rivers have significantly influenced the nation’s economic and cultural growth. There is no better venue to explore this heritage than the Forrest L. Wood – Crowley’s Ridge Nature Center near Jonesboro.

The center comprises approximately 20,000 square feet of exhibit space indoors and includes expansive outdoor areas featuring miles of trails.

It is advisable to view the introductory film before venturing out, as it provides an insightful overview of what visitors can expect to learn.

One of the center’s primary exhibits is a two-story reconstruction of the local ecosystem, showcasing plants, animals, geological features, and subterranean components.

12. Bradbury Art Museum

Offering free admission and welcoming the public, the Bradbury Art Museum located on the Arkansas State University campus serves as a complementary experience to the ASU Museum.

The museum emphasizes contemporary art and differentiates itself from others by not having permanent installations; instead, it features a range of temporary exhibits through the year.

Prospective visitors are encouraged to consult the event calendar on the website to stay informed about any special activities or educational workshops that may be available.

As a valuable community asset, the museum is certainly worth a visit.

13. Locked Away Escapes

Escape rooms have gained significant traction in the entertainment and leisure sectors in recent years. For those who have yet to experience one, spending a few hours at Locked Away Escapes could be a memorable addition to your itinerary in Pocahontas.

Located on Shelby Drive in Jonesboro, Locked Away Escapes provides an engaging activity suitable for small groups, such as birthday parties, wedding celebrations, or simply a gathering of friends seeking an entertaining evening.

The concept involves leveraging cognitive skills to solve riddles and interpret clues, ultimately leading to your successful escape from a challenging scenario.

Various themed rooms are available, with some designed for adolescent participants as well.

14. Centennial Bank Stadium

Residents of Arkansas are passionate about collegiate athletics. For visitors interested in witnessing competitive games without incurring excessive expenses, the Centennial Bank Stadium on the Arkansas State University campus in Jonesboro presents a viable option.

The stadium’s principal attraction is Red Wolves football, which has seen renovations in recent years, now regarded as one of the finest facilities within its division.

Securing tickets is generally manageable unless a particularly intense rivalry game is taking place. Besides football, the stadium hosts various other events, so it is advisable to consult locals regarding upcoming activities or check the university’s official website for information.