Clinton, nestled in an Ozark valley along U.S. 65, is a western gateway to Greers Ferry Lake. The town offers travel accommodations, historic downtown, museum, parks and colorful festivals. Clinton was founded in 1842 by George Counts and named for New York Gov. DeWitt Clinton, noted for building the Erie Canal. The little village became Van Buren County's seat of justice in 1844. Local events include the Lost Cherokee Pow Wow on Memorial Day Weekend and the National Chuckwagon Championships on Labor Day Weekend. Clinton is a member of the Arkansas Main Street program.