Jenkins Ferry Battleground State Park

🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆 Arkansas — Site of the April 30, 1864 Civil War battle where Union General Frederick Steele fought a desperate rearguard action to cross the Saline River during his disastrous Camden Expedition. The 2nd Kansas Colored Infantry played a crucial role — African American troops fighting for their freedom in the Arkansas swamps!

Visitor Information

About Jenkins Ferry

Jenkins Ferry Battleground State Park in Grant County preserves the site of the April 30, 1864 Battle of Jenkins Ferry — the final engagement of the failed Camden Expedition during the Civil War. Union General Frederick Steele fought his way across the flooded Saline River to escape encirclement by Confederate forces. African American troops of the 2nd Kansas Colored Infantry played a decisive role, fighting hand-to-hand in the rain and mud.

Things to Do

Walking the battlefield trails, reading the interpretive markers, visiting the river crossing site, and studying one of the significant engagements involving African American troops during the Civil War.

Plan Your Visit

Jenkins Ferry preserves the Saline River crossing where Union forces fought through Confederate lines on April 30, 1864. The battlefield trails and interpretive panels tell the story of the rain-soaked battle. Combine with Poison Springs (30 miles south) and Marks’ Mills (40 miles east) for the three-battle Camden Expedition circuit. Benton (county seat) provides services. The Saline River crossing site is especially dramatic during spring high water.

Insider Tips

Camden Expedition: Jenkins Ferry (April 30, 1864) was the final battle of the failed Union Camden Expedition — fought in driving rain at a flooded river crossing. Pro tip: The battle featured the 2nd Kansas Colored Infantry — one of the first African-American units in combat in the Trans-Mississippi. Arkansas Civil War: Arkansas saw 771 military engagements — the most of any Trans-Mississippi state.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the Camden Expedition?

The Camden Expedition (March-May 1864) was a failed Union attempt to capture Confederate supply lines in southern Arkansas. General Frederick Steele’s force was repeatedly defeated at Poison Springs, Marks’ Mills, and Jenkins Ferry — losing supplies and men at each engagement. The campaign was part of the larger Red River Campaign, which failed across Arkansas and Louisiana. These defeats delayed Union control of the Trans-Mississippi theater.