Fort Smith National Historic Site

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Aerial view of visitor center
The former barracks, courthouse, and jail serves as the park's visitor center
Commissary and Supply Wagon
In 1845, Fort Smith was converted to a supply depot. With this mission, Fort Smith became one of the busiest supply posts in the southwest.
Entrance sign in snow
Entrance sign along the river trail on a snowy day.
Foundations of first Fort Smith and Arkansas River
Foundations of the first Fort Smith with Arkansas River in the background
Jail Wagon and Gallows
A jail wagon like this one was use the transport prisoners to the Federal Courthouse 6th Street.
Supply Wagon and visitor center
Supply Wagon and visitor center
The red brick visitor center framed by two redbud trees with a paved path leading to it.
Redbud trees give a lively look to the park in spring.
A snow-covered Hawthorn bush partially obscures the red brick visitor center in the background.
Snow might be present during a winter visit to the park.
Purple and orange flowers bloom in the foreground with the red brick visitor center in the back.
The Officers' Garden is maintained with assistance from the River Valley Master Gardeners.
Photos: National Park Service

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.

Quick Facts

State Arkansas
Designation National Historic Site
State Code AR,OK
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…

Location & Map

Fort Smith National Historic Site is located in Arkansas.

Operating Hours

The Gallows and Commissary are open during Visitor Center hours, which may vary by season. Please check Visitor Center Hours for more information. Park grounds are open daily from 30 minutes before sunrise until 30 minutes after sunset.

Wednesday Sunrise to Sunset
Monday Sunrise to Sunset
Thursday Sunrise to Sunset
Sunday Sunrise to Sunset
Tuesday Sunrise to Sunset
Friday Sunrise to Sunset
Saturday Sunrise to Sunset

Activities

Guided Tours Self-Guided Tours - Walking Junior Ranger Program Park Film Museum Exhibits Shopping Bookstore and Park Store

Getting There

From Interstate 40 Eastbound: Exit at Roland and drive six miles on highway 64 to downtown Fort Smith. From Interstate 40 Westbound & from North Interstate 540 & Fayetteville: Take Interstate 40 Westbound to Interstate 540 south. Exit west on Rogers Ave and continue towards downtown Fort Smith. In the downtown area: On Rogers or Garrison Ave, turn south at 4th St. Turn right onto Garland Ave. Entrance to the main parking lot is at the end of the next block. Oversize parking is available.

View Official Directions

Contact & Address

Address 301 Parker Ave, Fort Smith, AR, 72901
Phone 4797833961
Email fosm_parkinfo@nps.gov

Topics & Themes

African American Heritage Archeology Ruins Explorers and Expeditions Forts Incarceration Jails and Prisons Medicine Hospital Military Artillery Cavalry Schools and Education Transportation Trains and Railroads Wars and Conflicts Tribal Conflicts Civil War Westward Expansion Women's History Animals Birds River and Riparian Scenic Views

Things To Do

Park Passport Stamps at Fort Smith NHS

Park Passport Stamps at Fort Smith NHS

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

Explore the Parade Ground

Explore the Parade Ground

The loop around the Parade Ground is one quarter of a mile. It was the center of life at the…

There are wayside and other points of interest on the loop. 

Become a Fort Smith BARK Ranger

Become a Fort Smith BARK Ranger

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

Complete the Fort Smith BARK Ranger booklet to earn an official BARK Ranger leash tag.

Become a Fort Smith Junior Ranger

Become a Fort Smith Junior Ranger

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

Complete the activity booklet to be sworn in as an official Fort Smith Junior Ranger and to earn a Fort…

Walk the River Loop Trail

Walk the River Loop Trail

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

Visitor Centers

Visitor Center, Gallows, and Commissary

This building has evolved over time. Beginning in 1846, it was the enlisted men's barracks and dining hall. In 1872, it was converted to a…

Hours: Summer Operating Hours: open 7 days a week from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

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