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Lake Fort Smith State Park: Ozark Mountain Retreat

Explore the Ozark Mountains at Lake Fort Smith State Park: hiking, fishing, history, and stunning natural beauty await.

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Nestled in the Boston Mountain Valley of the Ozarks, Lake Fort Smith State Park offers a scenic escape with a blend of recreational activities and historical insights. The park features a 1,400-acre lake perfect for fishing and kayaking, along with hiking trails, campsites, cabins, and a visitor center with historical exhibits.

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.
  • Hike a portion of the Ozark Highlands Trail for stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Rent a kayak or boat at the marina to explore Lake Fort Smith.
  • Pack a swimsuit to enjoy the park's swimming pool, open seasonally.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Lake Fort Smith State Park is located off of Sheperd Springs Road in Mountainburg, Arkansas. From Fayetteville, travel south on Highway 71 for approximately 25 miles, then turn left onto AR-400. Turn right onto Becky Wright Lane, then left onto Campground Loop to reach the state park. There is ample parking available near 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 Mountains, is more than just a picturesque getaway; it's a portal to the rich history and natural beauty of the Ozarks. Originally developed in the 1930s as a city park and later as the Mountainburg Recreational Facility, the area was adopted into the Arkansas State Park system in 1967. The park was relocated and rebuilt in 2008 to accommodate the expansion of Lake Fort Smith, which now serves as a vital water source for the region. The park offers a diverse range of activities. Anglers and boaters can explore the nearly 1,500-acre Lake Fort Smith, with kayak, canoe, and boat rentals available at the marina. Hiking enthusiasts can explore several trails, including a portion of the Ozark Highlands Trail. The park is the western terminus of the 165-mile Ozark Highlands National Recreation Trail, known for its scenic and challenging paths through the Ozark Mountains. The visitor center features exhibits on the area's early history, including a replica pioneer log cabin and covered wagon. Park interpreters offer guided nature hikes and lake tours throughout the year. For those wishing to stay longer, the park provides 30 campsites and 10 cabins. Other amenities include a swimming pool, playground, picnic areas, and group facilities. Note that swimming, water skiing, and jet skiing are not allowed in the lake itself, as it serves as a reservoir.

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