The Arkansas legislature recognized the importance of the Parkin site, and authorized its development as a State Park in 1967. With funding from the legislature and help from the Archeological Conservancy, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving significant archeological sites, the state purchased this site and some surrounding land. The Visitor Center includes an exhibit area, gift shop, and archeological laboratory. Interpretive staff offer audiovisual programs, site tours, workshops, events, education programs, and other activities for visitors, school groups, and the community.
Volunteers have the opportunity to participate in site excavations and research.
It was surrounded by a moat and a log palisade wall for protection. A large ceremonial mound, on the bank of the river, remains. The site is important for understanding the history and prehistory of northeast Arkansas. There were once many archeological sites similar to Parkin throughout this region, but careless digging and modern agricultural practices have destroyed almost all of these. The Parkin site is unique because it has been protected from destruction.