Used as a field hospital during the Battle of Pea Ridge, the Elkhorn Tavern is a focal point on the Pea Ridge National Military Park.
On March 7-8, 1862, over 23,000 soldiers fought here to decide the fate of Missouri which was a turning point of the war in the Trans-Mississippi. This 4,400-acre battlefield honors those who fought and died on these hallowed grounds. Pea Ridge was the most pivotal Civil War battle west of the Mississippi River.
Pea Ridge National Military Park will conduct prescribed fire operations Monday and Tuesday, March 10-11, 2025, subject to weather conditions falling within the parameters of prescribed fire prescriptions.
The National Park Service invites the public to Pea Ridge National Military Park on Saturday, March 8, from 9:45 AM to 3:15 PM to attend programs commemorating the 163rd anniversary of the Battle of Pea Ridge. The Battle of Pea Ridge was fought on March 7-8, 1862, by over 23,000 Union and Confederate soldiers. It was the largest battle fought west of the Mississippi River and was a major turning point, helping Union forces maintain physical and political control of the state of Missouri. Visitors are invited to experience programs presented by staff and volunteers as they share accounts of what happened during the battle. Attendees will hear the crash of musketry and the roar of cannon and see how these weapons were used. Volunteer living historians will be giving programs at Tour Stop Four, Leetown Battlefield, and Tour Stop Eight, Elkhorn Tavern, while others will be portraying a cannon detachment at the Visitor Center. The full program schedule is available on the park website and social media pages. All program times and locations are subject to change. There are no entrance fees to Pea Ridge National Military Park. Water, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes are recommended.