Located 89 miles to the east of Fort Smith and close to the southern border of Ozark National Forest, the small town of Dover falls in Pope County in the US state of Arkansas. The town was once the county seat of Pope County but its influence began to wane during the period of the construction of the railroads in the 1870s and in its aftermath, as it got bypassed by the railroad company.

Today, Dover Arkansas is chiefly known as a community-based neighborhood and is a favored destination to many Arkansas residents who nurture a taste for different outdoor activities and appreciate the quiet, easy-going way of life that in many ways characterizes the town of Dover, Arkansas.

At present, the town is spread over an area of 1.8 square mile and according to 2000 census, had a population of 1,329. The census registered 529 households and 372 families as residing in the city. Notwithstanding its relatively small size, the town still boasts of a fairly diverse economy that is based upon agricultural enterprises, construction farms, local schools and the usual spate of local commerce and service industries a good part of which cater to the tourist.

There are many beautiful natural sites to be found in the immediate vicinity of Dover (72837-9008) and this attracts a regular stream of visitors to the town every year. The Long Pool Recreation Area & Campground and the Fairview Recreational Area are the two major recreation parks around Dover. Long Pool lies along the beautiful Big Piney River and offers many opportunities for fishing, canoeing, kayaking, camping, mountain biking, hiking and more. Twenty camping sites with water and electrical facilities are available in the park. The town also features a complete 18-hole golf course which is located at the Russellville Country Club of Dover.