Explore These 4 Fort Smith Parks This Spring

Nothing is more fun than spending the afternoon at a park with family or friends. The fresh air and natural beauty have a way of reviving our spirit and helping us feel relaxed. Fort Smith has a wide array of great parks just waiting for you to explore. From large downtown parks to smaller community parks, there are many great places to discover. So pack a picnic lunch and some beverages, and explore these four Fort Smith parks this spring.

Fort Smith Park

Fort Smith Park had to top the list, not only because of its name but also because of its location on the waterfront in downtown Fort Smith. It’s an ideal place to go canoeing, kayaking, swimming, fishing, or just chill out. The park features a boat launch, a covered pavilion, restrooms, and plenty of parking. Plus, it’s one of the few public parks where you can drink alcohol responsibly so if want to enjoy a beer while relaxing in the sun, go for it.

Anniversary Rose Garden

If you love the smell and beauty of roses, then you simply must visit the Anniversary Rose Garden late this spring or early summer when all the roses are in bloom. From fragrant white roses to orange and yellow varieties, there is nothing quite like being surrounded by roses. The park is located on 12th street in downtown Fort Smith.

Lake Fort Smith State Park

Lake Fort Smith State Park is much more than just a park.  Nestled in a picturesque valley of the majestic Ozark Mountains, this 1,400-acre state park located on the west side of Fort Smith features a ton of wonderful trails. Whether you want to spend the day fishing, swimming, kayaking, mountain biking, hiking, or just kickin’ back, it’s the perfect park for anyone. Backpackers often make it the starting point for a trekking expedition on the world-renowned Ozark Highlands National Recreation Trail.

The park has over 30 campsites as well as group camping facilities with a dining hall and two lodges that easily accommodate over 30 people.  Lake Fort Smith Park also has picnic tables, a covered pavilion, a huge swimming pool, a marina, a children’s playground, and 10 cabins. Don’t forget to check out the park’s visitor center that includes about 8,000 square feet of intriguing exhibits and a cozy outdoor patio made of native stone that includes a fireplace and gorgeous view of the lake.

Ross Pendergraft Park

Last, but certainly not least is Ross Pendergraft Park. If you’re looking for a nice place to relax in busy downtown Fort Smith, this park on Garrison Avenue is the place for you. With clean restrooms and plenty of parking, it’s the perfect place to relax during your lunch hour. Please note that smoking and alcohol consumption are not allowed on park grounds.

We are so fortunate to live in a city with such an amazing park system. We encourage you to get out there and enjoy it this spring or any other time of year.

Photo by Warren Brown Photography | Licensed under cc by 2.0

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