TOLTEC MOUNDS STATE PARK
Arkansas's tallest remaining, prehistoric Native American mounds are preserved at this National Historic Landmark site near Little Rock. The mounds and an earthen embankment are the remains of a large ceremonial and governmental complex that was inhabited here from A.D. 600 to 1050. Managed by Arkansas State Parks in conjunction with the Arkansas Archeological Survey, the Toltec site serves as both a state park and an archeological research station. The park visitor center features exhibits, an audiovisual theater, sales area and an educational pavilion that overlooks the mounds. The Toltec Research Station of the Arkansas Archeological Survey, a unit of the University of Arkansas system, and its laboratory are also housed in the visitor center. Self-guided tours are offered along both the 3/4-mile, barrier-free trail and 1.6-mile turf trail. Park interpreters lead guided tours and programs throughout the week by group reservation and at scheduled times on Saturdays.
Located in Arkansas, the site known as Toltec Mounds was inhabited by a significant prehistoric Native American society. The Plum Bayou people occupied this area from 650 to 1050 AD and constructed large earthwork mounds for ceremonial purposes.
The park preserves one of the largest archaeological sites in Lower Mississippi River Valley. It contains three major constructions: two flat-topped platform mounds and one burial mound.
In total, there were originally eighteen mounds within an enclosed rectangular-shaped plaza covering over twenty acres. Today only seventeen remain due to farming practices during European settlement eroding away one mound completely.
Archaeological excavations began at the site around late nineteenth century with more systematic digs conducted since mid-twentieth century revealing artifacts like pottery shards, stone tools etc., providing insights into ancient cultures that lived here centuries ago
It became part of Arkansas State Parks system in 1975 after being purchased through funds provided by National Park Service's Land Water Conservation Fund (LWCF).
Today it serves both educational and recreational needs offering guided tours showcasing its rich history while also featuring picnic areas along Lake Mound.