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The former barracks, courthouse, and jail serves as the park's visitor center

The former barracks, courthouse, and jail serves as the park's visitor center

Fort Smith National Historic Site

National Historic Site · AR, OK

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.

Park report

Current Alerts

Good

How this is rated

Good: no active alerts or closures

No active alerts

Entrance Fee

Good

How this is rated

Good: free entry

Free — no entrance fee

Visitor Centers

Good

1 visitor center

Activities Available

Good

How this is rated

Good: many activities available

7 activities

Park Name

Info

Fort Smith National Historic Site

Designation

Info

National Historic Site

State(s)

Info

AR, OK

Phone

Info

4797833961

Email

Info

fosm_parkinfo@nps.gov

Operating Hours

Info

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 11:00 pm.

Campgrounds

Info

No campgrounds listed

Visitor Center: Visitor Center, Gallows, and Commissary

Info

See park for hours

Themes & Topics

Info

African American Heritage, Archeology, Ruins + 21 more

Weather Info

Info

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 teen

Getting There

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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 Westb

Location

Info

35.3883° N, -94.4313° W

Data from official federal recreation records. Updated periodically. Park conditions change — always verify with the park before visiting. Verify on official park website