Historic Washington, Arkansas's premier 19th-century village, is conserved and interpreted by Arkansas State Parks in conjunction with the Pioneer Washington Restoration Foundation.From its establishment in 1824, Washington was an important stop on the rugged Southwest Trail for pioneers traveling to Texas. James Bowie, Sam Houston and Davy Crockett traveled through Washington. James Black, a local blacksmith, is credited with creating the legendary Bowie Knife here. Later, the town became a major service center for area planters, merchants and professionals. Washington was the Confederate Capital of Arkansas from 1863-1865.

Established in 1973, the state park interprets Washington from 1824-1889. The 1874 Courthouse serves as the park visitor center. Visitors can also see the 1836 Courthouse, Blacksmith Shop, Weapons Museum, several residences and other historic structures on self-guided tours. Buildings open for touring vary each day. Lunch featuring delicious, Southern country fare is served daily in the circa 1832 Williams' Tavern Restaurant.Group rental facilities at Old Washington include the 1914 Schoolhouse featuring meeting rooms, an auditorium, overnight accommodations (maximum capacity: 60 in bunk beds) and a catering kitchen, and the WPA Gymnasium with kitchen.

The park also houses the Southwest Arkansas Regional Archives, a resource center for historical and genealogical research.

Old Washington Historic State Park, Arkansas's 19th-century restoration village, offers group lodging in the town's restored 1914 Schoolhouse. Restored to serve groups visiting the park, the facility will accommodate up to 60 persons in bunks. A meeting room and auditorium are also available for rent.

Each bunk comes with linens and rents for $17.50/night. The meeting room can be rented for $100/day, the auditorium for $125/day, and the meeting room and auditorium together for $225/day. The entire building can be rented for $800/day. Pets are not permitted; however, service animals are welcome. Call the park at (870) 983-2684 to make reservations. Old Washington Historic State Park is located in southwest Arkansas near Hope. Take Exit #30 off I-30 at Hope and travel nine miles northwest on U.S. 278 to the park.