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Ben Geren Regional Park: Fort Smith's Outdoor Oasis

Explore 1,300 acres of outdoor fun in Fort Smith: sports, trails, water park, mini-golf, and more at Ben Geren Regional Park!

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Ben Geren Regional Park in Fort Smith, Arkansas, is a 1,300-acre recreational haven offering diverse activities from sports fields and a water park to tranquil trails and a golf course. It's a popular destination for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and athletes alike.

A brief summary to Ben Geren Regional Park

  • Monday 6:30 am-7:30 pm
  • Tuesday 6:30 am-7:30 pm
  • Wednesday 6:30 am-7:30 pm
  • Thursday 6:30 am-7:30 pm
  • Friday 6:30 am-7:30 pm
  • Saturday 6:30 am-7:30 pm
  • Sunday 6:30 am-7:30 pm

Local tips

  • Bring your own volleyball if you plan to use the sand volleyball courts, as the park does not provide them.
  • Check the operating hours for Gator Golf and Parrot Island Waterpark, as they may vary seasonally.
  • Consider attending one of the many running events held at Ben Geren Regional Park throughout the year.
  • Explore the mountain biking trails, recognized as one of the premier systems in Arkansas, for a thrilling outdoor adventure.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Ben Geren Regional Park is located at 7200 Zero St, Fort Smith, AR 72903. From downtown Fort Smith, head south on Zero Street for approximately 6 miles. The park entrance will be on your right. Parking is available on-site. Expect heavier traffic during peak hours and on weekends.

  • Public Transport

    To reach Ben Geren Regional Park via public transportation, use the Fort Smith Transit Route 2 (Green Line), which travels along Zero Street. Check the bus schedule for timings and board the bus to the stop closest to the intersection of Zero Street and 74th Street. From there, walk east on Zero Street to the park entrance. A single ride fare is $1.25.

  • Walking

    From downtown Fort Smith, you can walk to Ben Geren Regional Park. Head south on Garrison Avenue until you reach 7th Street, then turn right. Continue on 7th Street until you reach South Zero Street. Turn left onto Zero Street and proceed until you arrive at the park entrance. The walk is approximately 4 miles and should take around 1.5 hours.

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Discover more about Ben Geren Regional Park

Ben Geren Regional Park, a sprawling 1,300-acre park in Fort Smith, Arkansas, has been a community hub since its dedication on May 13, 1973. Named after Sebastian County Judge Ben Geren, the park arose from land acquired from Fort Chaffee Military Reservation in 1966. Today, it offers a wide array of recreational opportunities, attracting locals and tourists seeking outdoor fun and relaxation. Sports enthusiasts will find a variety of facilities, including soccer fields, softball diamonds, and a tennis center. The park's tennis center boasts six lighted courts with instruction available for all ages. Ben Geren also features a top-notch fitness trail stretching 1.5 miles, complete with exercise stations. For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, there are over 7.4 miles of paved trails suitable for walking, running, and cycling, as well as 14.10 miles of rugged mountain biking trails. The mountain bike trail system is recognized as one of the state's premier systems. Families can enjoy several playgrounds, picnic areas, and other attractions. Gator Golf, a 27-hole jungle-themed miniature golf course, provides a fun challenge for all ages. During the warmer months, Parrot Island Waterpark offers a refreshing escape with a wave pool, water slides, a lazy river, and a children's play area. Torraine Lake, a Family and Community Fishing Program lake, is regularly stocked and features a mile-long paved walking trail around its perimeter. Canoes and kayaks are welcome, though visitors will need to carry them from the parking area. Ben Geren Regional Park also has three sand volleyball courts and a popular disc golf course with two 18-hole courses. The park is committed to preserving the area's natural heritage, with an ongoing project to re-establish Massard Prairie, which once thrived where the park is now located.

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