WHAT: Arkansas State Parks and the Arkansas Archeological Survey (ARAS) will announce the designation of three Arkansas State Parks as Arkansas State Archeological Landmarks, a historic recognition that provides official designation and enhanced protection for sites significant to the scientific study and public representation of Arkansas’s aboriginal past.
WHEN: Saturday, March 15, 2025, at 2:00 p.m.
WHERE: Parkin Archeological State Park, 60 State Hwy 184
Parkin, AR 72373
WHO: Speakers include:
- Shea Lewis, Secretary of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism
- Jeff King, Deputy Director of Arkansas State Parks
- Dr. Alex Barker, Director of the Arkansas Archeological Survey
- Dr. Melissa Zabecki, State Archeologist
WHY: This designation, authorized under Arkansas Code § 13-6-306 (2020), recognizes and further protects sites of significance to Arkansas’s history. The newly designated State Archeological Landmarks include:
- Plum Bayou Mounds Archeological State Park
- Parkin Archeological State Park
- Davidsonville Historic State Park
These sites have been recognized in collaboration with Arkansas State Parks, ARAS and the Quapaw Nation, the descendant community of the Native American groups who built and lived at these locations.
MEDIA OPPORTUNITIES:
- Interviews with state and archeological leaders
- Footage of the designation ceremony
- Visuals of artifacts on display in the museum
- Guided walk-through of Parkin Archeological State Park
Arkansas State Parks
Arkansas State Parks is a division of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism. Arkansas state parks and museums cover 55,006 acres of forest, wetlands, fish and wildlife habitat, outdoor recreation facilities, and unique historic and cultural resources. Established in 1923, Arkansas State Parks preserve special places for future generations, provide quality recreation and education opportunities, enhance the state’s economy through tourism and provide leadership in resource conservation. Connect with ASP on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and visit ArkansasStateParks.com and ArkansasStateParks.com/media to learn more.
Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism
The Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism protects and promotes our state’s natural, cultural and historic assets, contributing to a thriving economy and high quality of life. It is made up of three divisions: Arkansas State Parks, Arkansas Heritage and Arkansas Tourism.
