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Fort Smith National Historic Site, Historic Site in Fort Smith, Arkansas
Historic Site

Fort Smith National Historic Site

Fort Smith · Arkansas

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Overview

About Fort Smith National Historic Site.

Explore life on the edge of frontier and Indian Territory through the stories of soldiers, the Trail of Tears, scandals, outlaws, and lawmen who pursued them. From the establishment of the first Fort Smith on December 25, 1817, to the final days of Judge Isaac C. Parker's jurisdiction over Indian Territory in 1896, Fort Smith National Historic Site preserves almost 80 years of history.

Guided ToursSelf-Guided Tours - WalkingJunior Ranger ProgramPark FilmMuseum ExhibitsShoppingBookstore and Park Store

Weather

Fort Smith weather includes four distinct, yet temperate seasons. Spring and fall are usually mild while late summer is hot and humid. During winter months, temperatures occasionally dip into the teens. Forecast often changes dramatically due to surrounding weather influences. Arkansas's central location allows weather systems from all directions to influence its climate. The area is prone to flash flooding and river flooding in rainy seasons.

Key Facts

TypeHistoric Site
DesignationNational Historic Site
Official Website

Gallery

Photos of Fort Smith National Historic Site.

9 images

Things to do

Discover Fort Smith National Historic Site.

A handout titled BARK Ranger and the Fort Smith BARK Ranger dog tag.

Become a Fort Smith BARK Ranger

10-30 Minutes

Complete the Fort Smith BARK Ranger booklet so your pet can become an official BARK Ranger!

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Wooden Junior Ranger badges with text reading Junior Ranger Fort Smith National Historic Site.

Become a Fort Smith Junior Ranger

45-60 Minutes

Complete a Junior Ranger booklet to earn an official Fort Smith Junior Ranger badge!

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A grassy field with pathway that loops around a flagpole with radiating paths and brick buildings.

Explore the Parade Ground

30-45 Minutes

The loop around the Parade Ground is one quarter of a mile. It was the center of life at the fort from 1838 - 1871.

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Five rubber stamps sitting at a wood stamp station in front of black ink images of each stamp.

Park Passport Stamps at Fort Smith NHS

2-15 Minutes

Stamp your passport! Stamps are available inside the visitor center lobby at Fort Smith National Historic Site.

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Cement sidewalk winding through trees. Green grass lines both sides of the walkway.

Walk the River Loop Trail

30-60 Minutes

The trail is open year round. No access to the river. No water or restrooms are located along the trail.

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