Seven months after Wilson's Creek, the Confederate army in Arkansas and southern Missouri was ready to march on St. Louis and ultimately, take Missouri into the Confederacy. They had won a victory at Wilson's Creek in August 1861 but been unable to follow it up, leaving the Union forces in control of Missouri.

Knowing of the Confederate intentions, Union General Samuel Curtis moved his army into northern Arkansas and took up position on the high ground of Pea Ridge. Confederate General Ben McCollough tried to sweep around the ridge and attack from the rear, but his exhausted troops took too long and the Union army was ready.

Late on the first day, though, the Confederates were beginning to push the Union troops back. However, night fell and fighting halted. In the morning, a surprise Union counterattack threw the southern troops back, and as their ammunition was running low, forced their retreat south toward Fayetteville. This would be the last major battle for Missouri though skirmishes would continue through the war.

A seven-mile road takes visitors around the battlefield, with several pull-offs where battle details are provided. At one point, the road climbs Pea Ridge with a stop providing grand views of the battlefield below.

The Visitors Center provides the usual: a good video about the battle, a small museum, a gift shop, and information desk.