Lake Fort Smith State Park
Lake Fort Smith State Park is the western terminus of the 165-mile Ozark Highlands Trail—with pool, marina, cabins!
Ozark Highlands Trail
165-mile national recreation trail starts HERE! Buffalo National River connection.
Camping & Cabins
- 10 cabins (dog-friendly)
- 30 campsites (20 full hookup)
- 2 group lodges (28-32 people)
Pool
2,660 sq ft pool + splash pad. No lake swimming—reservoir!
Lake swimming?
No—reservoir. Use the pool!
Ozark Trail Gateway
Location & Getting There
Lake Fort Smith State Park is located in Arkansas. The park’s coordinates are 35.5833, -94.1500. Check the park’s official website or your state parks app for detailed driving directions and GPS navigation tips.
Quick Facts
- Location: Arkansas
- Coordinates: 35.5833, -94.1500
- Activities: Hiking, Camping, Fishing, Wildlife Viewing
- Pets: Allowed on leash in most areas (check local rules)
Nature & Wildlife
Lake Fort Smith State Park is home to a diverse array of native flora and fauna. Visitors can observe songbirds, raptors, and waterfowl throughout the year, while white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and smaller mammals like fox and raccoon frequent the park”s woodlands. Wildflowers create colorful displays in spring and early summer, and the park”s forests transition through spectacular seasonal changes. Birdwatching is particularly rewarding during spring and fall migration, when dozens of species pass through the area.
Things to Do
Arkansas showcases stunning Ozark and Ouachita landscapes — ancient mountains, spring-fed rivers, dramatic bluffs, and caves. Activities include hiking scenic bluff trails, swimming in clear streams, fishing trophy bass lakes, camping in forested valleys, kayaking, caving, mountain biking, and rock climbing.
Best Time to Visit
Best from March through November. Spring brings wildflowers and waterfalls. Summer is hot — swim and float. Fall foliage peaks mid-to-late October. Winter offers mild hiking temperatures.
Visitor Tips
Arkansas state parks are free to enter. The system uniquely offers full-service lodges with restaurants. Reservations through arkansasstateparks.com. Ticks are very active March through October.
Explore More Arkansas State Parks
Lake Fort Smith State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Arkansas. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Arkansas guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
