Elias Nelson Conway (May 17, 1812 – February 28, 1892) was an American politician and lawyer who served as the fifth governor of Arkansas from 1852 to 1860.

His older brother Henry died in 1827 as a result of a duel with a former friend, Robert Crittenden.

His administration focused on physical improvements to the state: roads and other infrastructure to encourage development.

The 'Natural Steps' were first written about and drawn by Owen, in his Second Report of a Geological Reconnaissance of the Middle and Southern Counties of Arkansas (1859).

Conway is buried at the historic Mount Holly Cemetery in Little Rock, Arkansas.