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.
From Interstate 40 Eastbound: Exit at Roland, and drive six miles on highway 64 to downtown Fort Smith. From Interstate 40 Westbound & from North I 540 & Fayetteville, take Interstate 40 westbound to I 540 south. Exit west on Rogers Ave. and continue to downtown. In the downtown area: On Rogers or Garrison Ave turn south at 4th St. Turn right onto Garland Ave. At the end of the next block is the entrance to the main parking lot. Parking is also available on Third Street.
- Guided Tours
- Self-Guided Tours - Walking
- Junior Ranger Program
- Park Film
- Museum Exhibits
- Shopping
- Bookstore and Park Store
- 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
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
Entrance sign along the river trail on a snowy day.
Foundations of First Fort Smith
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