Lake Fort Smith State Park

Beautiful state park, beautiful lake with rental boats, kayak, tours, cabins, and activities.

We left KS for a weekend getaway but didn’t plan anything out. We just knew we were heading southeast. We came upon this lake and we’re lucky enough to stay in one of their cabins for the night too.

We loved our sunset kayak tour on July 2-I don’t remember our tour guide’s name but she was attentive and incredibly knowledgeable about this lake and it’s surroundings. It was easy to see that she was passionate about her job and that makes all the difference.

The cabins were fantastic too. We only stayed the one night but all they had available was a 2 bedroom, so we booked it. It was about 200$ but it came with 2 king size bedrooms 2 large bathrooms(one w/shower & one w/jacuzzi tub) a huge back deck and nice outdoor table. There was also our own grill and patio table and seating too. It could have easily housed a really good sized family easily. Also, all items were included. No need to bring towels and sheets. Check out the pictures to see more.

Lots of deer and other wildlife too. We loved it and will be back for a longer stay with more family/friends next time.

Another park on my quest to visit all 52 Arkansas state parks! Looking back through old photos, I realized that 10 years ago we had stopped here on a drive through the Ozarks and I thought it was so beautiful...then unknowingly came back to camp here a decade later! Loved the RV campground. Lots of trees & shade, huge boulders off to the side of each campsite. Nice for basking in the sun! There are a couple of pull-through sites but our back-in site was easy to park and set up. Bathhouses were very clean, and the only problem we had with them the whole visit was a swarm of wasps outside the one on the lower campground sites.

Several trails for hiking, some of which are entirely shaded, and you can hike part of the Ozark Highlands trail here. I hate that you can't swim in the lake, but since it's a public water supply, it's understandable. There's a great pool though, plenty big with slides. There's also both a kids pool and a splash pad, so there's no shortage of water fun for hot days. Visitor center is quite nice with a little necessities/gift shop and a STELLAR view from the porch, even better if you stroll down to the overlook.

Warning: your insect repellent is VERY IMPORTANT here. There are a million ticks, and you don't necessarily even have to go on one of the hiking trails to pick them up.

Definitely get your groceries on the way in, or at least be prepared to drive half an hour for groceries, as the Walmart in Alma is the closest place. On the whole, it feels like a very off-the-grid place; like a hidden gem in the state park system, especially in comparison to DeGray Lake, which was a bit more crowded & less private. It was very relaxing & I highly recommend it!