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Lake Fort Smith State Park: Ozark Mountain Retreat

Discover outdoor adventures and historical charm in the heart of the Ozark Mountains at Lake Fort Smith State Park.

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Nestled in the Boston Mountains, Lake Fort Smith State Park offers a blend of outdoor recreation and historical appreciation. Enjoy camping, hiking, boating, and exploring exhibits that showcase the area's rich history.

A brief summary to Lake Fort Smith State Park

  • Monday 8 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-5 pm
  • Friday 8 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit the park's visitor center to learn about the area's history and natural features before exploring the trails and lake.
  • Bring your own kayak or rent one at the marina to explore the scenic Lake Fort Smith.
  • Hike a portion of the Ozark Highlands Trail for a challenging and rewarding experience in the Ozark Mountains.
  • Pack a swimsuit to enjoy the park's swimming pool, especially during the summer months.
  • Consider booking a cabin or campsite in advance, especially during peak season.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Lake Fort Smith State Park is located off of Scenic Highway 71, about 8 miles north of Mountainburg, Arkansas. If you are coming from I-540, take exit 29 to Mountainburg. Follow the signs to Scenic Highway 71 and turn north. The park entrance will be a short distance on the right. There is no fee to enter Arkansas State Parks. Parking is available at the visitor center, marina, and playground areas.

Unlock the Best of Lake Fort Smith State Park

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Discover more about Lake Fort Smith State Park

Lake Fort Smith State Park, cradled in the Boston Mountain range of the Ozarks, is more than just a scenic getaway; it's a portal to the past and a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Originally established in the 1930s as a city park and later developed by the Works Progress Administration (WPA), it served both as a recreational area and a water source for Fort Smith. The park was adopted into the state park system in 1967. In 2002, the park closed to make way for a larger dam and reservoir, leading to its relocation and reopening in 2008 with entirely new facilities. Today, the 260-acre park boasts a state-of-the-art visitor center with exhibits that narrate the region's history, geology, and natural beauty. Visitors can immerse themselves in a variety of activities. Anglers and boaters can explore the nearly 1,400-acre Lake Fort Smith via the marina, which offers rentals for fishing boats, kayaks, and canoes. Hiking enthusiasts can embark on the Ozark Highlands Trail, a 165-mile national recreation trail that begins at the park and winds through the Ozark Mountains. Shorter trails like the Shepherd Spring Trail and Warren Hollow Trail offer equally stunning views. While swimming is not allowed in the lake itself due to its function as a reservoir, a swimming pool with a splash pad provides a refreshing alternative. For those seeking a longer stay, the park features 30 campsites and 10 cabins, as well as group lodging facilities. The park's design reflects the rustic charm of the original WPA-era structures, incorporating native stonework and wood detailing. Whether you're drawn to the tranquility of the lake, the challenge of the trails, or the allure of the Ozark Mountains, Lake Fort Smith State Park promises an unforgettable experience.

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