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Fort Smith National Historic Site

Fort Smith, AR

History

Ruins of two frontier forts and the courtroom and gallows of Judge Isaac Parker, the hanging judge of Indian Territory, on the Arkansas River. Also a stop on the Trail of Tears.

Nearest town
Fort Smith, AR
Category
History & culture
GPS
35.3878, -94.4297

Hours, fees and access change. Confirm with the operator or park before you go.

Good to know

Best time to go

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

The most pleasant months are usually April–May and October. Still fine, with some compromises, in March, September and November. Hot in June–August. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)

Featured in these trip guides

Nearby

Campsites nearby

  • Fort Smith Riverfront RV ResortMotorhome stopover
    2 mi from Fort Smith National Historic Site
    Motorhomes
  • Fort Smith Alma RV ParkCampsite
    15 mi from Fort Smith National Historic Site
  • Love's RV HookupMotorhome stopover
    15 mi from Fort Smith National Historic Site · 4 pitches
    Motorhomes
  • Cowlington PointCampsite
    21 mi from Fort Smith National Historic Site
  • Vine Prairie Park CampgroundCampsite
    22 mi from Fort Smith National Historic Site
  • KOA HolidayMotorhome stopover
    22 mi from Fort Smith National Historic Site
    TentsMotorhomesElectricityDrinking waterToiletsWaste disposal

All campsites in Arkansas · Campsite data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL 1.0 · Updated October 3, 2026

FAQs

Where is Fort Smith National Historic Site?

Fort Smith National Historic Site is in Fort Smith, AR, at GPS 35.3878, -94.4297. It is about 56 mi from Talihina.

Can you camp near Fort Smith National Historic Site?

Yes. The nearest campsite listed in OpenStreetMap is Fort Smith Riverfront RV Resort, about 2 mi away; within 25 mi there are 9 campsites and motorhome stopovers.

Which road trips pass Fort Smith National Historic Site?

Fort Smith National Historic Site is a stop on these CampingSpirit trip guides: Arkansas River Valley: Petit Jean, Mount Nebo and Mount Magazine.

What is there to see near Fort Smith National Historic Site?

Places worth a stop nearby: Devil's Den State Park (29 mi), Mount Magazine State Park (47 mi), Queen Wilhelmina State Park (49 mi) and Talimena Scenic Drive (49 mi).

When is the best time to visit Fort Smith National Historic Site?

The most pleasant months are usually April–May and October. Still fine, with some compromises, in March, September and November. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)