Fort Smith National Historic Site • AR,OK

Aerial view of visitor center

Commissary and Supply Wagon

Entrance sign in snow

Foundations of first Fort Smith and Arkansas River

Jail Wagon and Gallows

Supply Wagon and visitor center

The red brick visitor center framed by two redbud trees with a paved path leading to it.

A snow-covered Hawthorn bush partially obscures the red brick visitor center in the background.

Purple and orange flowers bloom in the foreground with the red brick visitor center in the back.

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.

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

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.
NPS Photo

Entrance sign along the river trail on a snowy day.
NPS Photo

Foundations of the first Fort Smith with Arkansas River in the background
NPS Photo

A jail wagon like this one was use the transport prisoners to the Federal Courthouse 6th Street.
NPS Photo

Supply Wagon and visitor center
NPS Photo

Redbud trees give a lively look to the park in spring.
NPS Photo

Snow might be present during a winter visit to the park.
NPS Photo

The Officers' Garden is maintained with assistance from the River Valley Master Gardeners.
NPS Photo

Junior Ranger Badge with text reading Junior Ranger Fort Smith National Historic Site.

Kids of all ages can earn Junior Ranger badges.

Aerial photo of Arkansas River, first fort foundation, commissary, visitor center, and gallows.

Find our address, operating hours, and other information you may need before your visit.

Supply wagon in front of grass parade ground, flagpole and red brick visitor center.

Discover the many ways to explore the past at Fort Smith!

White man with white hair, mustache, and long goatee wearing a dark three piece suit.

Learn more about the man who said, "Permit no innocent man to be punished, but let no guilty man escape."

Gallows with two nooses

From 1873 - 1896, eighty-six men were hanged for their crimes.

A snow-covered Hawthorn bush partially obscures the red brick visitor center in the background.

Are you eligible? America the Beautiful passes cover entrance fees and day use fees at over 2,000 federal recreation sites.

Park Ranger talking to students in the basement jail.

Looking for a way to enhance your classroom experience?

Union Civil War reenactors load a cannon.

Check out opportunities for those wishing to volunteer their time and skills. Become a VIP - Volunteers in Parks!

Last updated: March 11, 2026

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

301 Parker Ave
Fort Smith, AR 72901

Phone:

479 783-3961

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