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Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center: A Natural Oasis

Explore Arkansas's natural beauty at the Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center in Fort Smith. Trails, exhibits, and family fun await!

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The Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center in Fort Smith offers an immersive experience in the diverse ecosystems of the Arkansas River Valley. This 170-acre nature center features interactive exhibits, miles of scenic trails, and Wells Lake, providing opportunities for outdoor adventures and environmental education.

A brief summary to AGFC Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center

  • Tuesday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
  • Wednesday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
  • Thursday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
  • Friday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
  • Saturday 8:30 am-4:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best opportunities to view wildlife along the trails.
  • Check the center's calendar for special events, workshops, and guided hikes that may coincide with your visit.
  • Bring comfortable shoes for walking the trails and a camera to capture the scenic views.
  • Don't forget to stop by the visitor center to learn about the exhibits and grab a map of the area.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy in one of the beautiful outdoor areas surrounding Wells Lake.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center is located at 8300 Wells Lake Rd, Fort Smith, AR 72916. From I-540, take the Rogers Avenue exit (Exit 88) heading east. Turn right onto Massard Road, then left onto Wells Lake Road. The center will be on the left. Parking is free and plentiful.

  • Bicycle

    If arriving by bicycle, head towards Rogers Avenue and cycle east until you reach the intersection with South 74th Street. Turn left onto South 74th Street and continue until you reach Wells Lake Road. Turn right onto Wells Lake Road and follow it until you arrive at the Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center.

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Discover more about AGFC Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center

Nestled on 170 acres of former Fort Chaffee land in Fort Smith, the Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center serves as a gateway to the natural wonders of the Arkansas River Valley. Named after former Arkansas First Lady Janet Huckabee, this center is one of four nature centers operated by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC). The center's mission is to manage the state's fish and wildlife resources while providing enjoyable experiences for visitors of all ages. The nature center boasts a 14,000-square-foot building surrounded by a diverse landscape of hickory and oak trees. Inside, visitors can explore exhibits representing the Ozark Plateaus and Ouachita Mountains, a life-sized oak tree exhibit, and a 1,200-gallon aquarium showcasing native Arkansas fish. Interactive displays offer insights into the region's natural history, while a classroom and multipurpose room host educational programs, workshops, and community events. Outside, the center's grounds feature a network of trails, including accessible options, that wind through various habitats. Wells Lake, a 12-acre man-made lake, is a popular destination for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. The lake is stocked with catfish and trout as part of the Family and Community Fishing Program. Visitors can also observe wildlife attracted to feeders and a circulating stream near the building. The Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center offers a variety of programs and activities throughout the year, including guided hikes, canoeing excursions, archery instruction, and hunting and boating safety courses. Special events, workshops, and educational programs cater to nature enthusiasts of all ages. With its diverse offerings and commitment to conservation, the nature center provides a valuable resource for connecting with the natural world.

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