Last updated: October 29, 2023
Place
Lake Dardanelle State Park
Photo/Sasha Bowles/Lake Dardanelle State Park
Quick Facts
Location:
100 State Park Drive Russellville, Arkansas, the park is located 5 miles off I-40.
Significance:
Lake Dardanelle State Park demonstrates the drastic changes made to the Arkansas River after the Trail of Tears with the creation of the reservoir but original landmarks seen by the Cherokee and other groups during Indian Removal on this Water Route are still recognizable.
Designation:
Certified Site
MANAGED BY:
"...on reaching Bolinger's Bar opposite Cargo Steamboat with Keelboat in Tow to Scotia it was found impossible to proceed...
The Boats were therefore landed on the south bank of the river...The Boats were separated this morning in order to get over Bohlinger's Bar which was done about 10 a.m. After this they were again lashed, and continued to run until dark, and stopped between the mouths of Horse-Head and Spadna Creeks after running between 20 & 30 miles." - Journal of Edward Deas, April 18-19, 1838
Lake Dardanelle State Park is located along the banks of the Arkansas River where the steamboats stopped and transferred passengers to keel boats on their journey to Oklahoma. The keel boats had a shorter draft and could pass through more shallow waters than the steamboats. From this point on, however, low water levels could require that even keel boat passengers disembark and continue on foot towards Indian Territory or wait until the water levels rise. For many at this point on the journey, contemplating the need to transition from the boat and go overland the rest of the journey would be overwhelming.
As you stand facing the exhibit as it sits on the shore of Lake Dardanelle and look out across the water’s expanse, you can see the bluff line along the far shore, the border of the original river channel. This is where the Cherokee and other tribesmen traveled during their journey from their Eastern homelands to what is present-day Oklahoma. You will notice the sound of cars, and even children playing. But if you really listen, you will also hear the sounds of water on the rocks. You will notice numerous birds, and maybe even fish jumping. You will notice that even today there is boat traffic. Today's boats are much faster than the steamboats and keelboats used during the time of removal. As you stand here with a gentle breeze on your face, one can only wonder, would that breeze have been a welcome push for the boats and their inhabitants?
Lake Dardanelle is 99 miles by water to Indian Territory, the end of the Trail of Tears Water Route.
Site Information
Today, Lake Dardanelle State Park is in the heart of the Arkansas River Valley and provides a vast array of recreational opportunities. Outdoor activities such as camping, picnicking, boating, and watching wildlife are just a few options. There's a boat launch, picnic tables, a swim area, visitor center, campsites, and more. It is just minutes from town, where you can find numerous restaurants, shopping establishments, and entertainment.
Location (100 State Park Drive Russellville, Arkansas, the park is located 5 miles off I-40. )
Amenities
16 Class AAA, 14 Class AA, and 27 Class B Campsites, Restrooms/Showers,, Picnic Sites/Open Pavilion, Playground, Boat Launch, Hiking Trail, ADA accessible
Safety Considerations
More Site Information
Trail of Tears National Historic Trail
Trail of Tears: Arkansas River Water Route Itinerary
You can visit multiple Water Route sites on the Arkansas River by following the Trail of Tears: Arkansas River Water Route Itinerary. Each site features one aspect or story about the Cherokee and Creek experience traveling the Trail of Tears by water, highlighting the challenges and complexities that arose daily on the Arkansas River.