Parks to Explore In & Around Fort Smith

Do you love exploring parks and the outdoors? If so, you’re in luck, because Fort Smith, with over 29 parks, is a treasure trove of outdoor fun, relaxation, and natural beauty. 

Check out these favorite local community parks:

  • Creekmore Park, in the heart of Fort Smith, is a favorite for families. This park features a train ride for kids, playgrounds, tennis court, basketball court, mini-golf, and even a splash pad for cooling off in the summer. As one Google reviewer shared, “Amazing huge public park. I was visiting from out of town and found this little gem. Great wide walking paths, lots of clean picnic tables, and tons of activities for the little ones.”

  • Carol Ann Cross Park, includes walking trails that meander through lush greenery and along Wildcat Mountain Lake, which is stocked regularly with catfish and trout and is part of the Family and Community Fishing Program. Wildcat Lake also has a fishing pier. A Google reviewer shared, “Amazing park! Excellent and clean trails. Currently installing a new playground to be completed soon. Open to public fishing. Plenty of benches. Was amazed at how clean it was…”

  • Ben Geren Regional Park is a great place to golf, hike, bike, and play. 

  • Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center is fun for the whole family with walking trails, fishing, interactive exhibits, and workshops.

For state parks in and around Fort Smith, here some top places to go if you’re craving fresh air and scenic views:

  • Lake Fort Smith State Park is in the Boston Mountain Valley of the Ozarks and spans over 260 acres. Located on the western end of the 240-mile Ozark Highlands Trail, Lake Fort Smith attracts avid hikers and backpackers. It’s also a popular spot for fishing and mountain biking and features playground swings, barbeque grills, and picnic tables. 

  • Just under an hour’s drive from Fort Smith, Devil's Den State Park features hiking, backpacking, horseback riding and biking trails. Visitors marvel at the rock formations, caves, caverns, and waterfalls and jaw-dropping natural beauty in the park. Cabins and campsites are available for overnight stays. 

  • Mount Magazine is about an hour and a half drive from Fort Smith, but rewards those who make the trip with stunning views of Arkansas’ highest point. It’s also considered  one of the best places to hike in Arkansas. 

Surround yourself with nature and beauty at nearby state parks. It's time to breathe in some fresh air and create your own outdoor adventure!  a