Fort Smith National Historic Site

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.
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.
Map showing location of park.
A group of five young people wearing YCC uniform shirts sitting on the ground, repairing the mortar on a low stone wall.
Local Youth Conservation Corps Members Build Skills While Preserving Fort Smith National Historic Site
Seven local Youth Conservation Corps (YCC) members spent the summer gaining hands-on work experience while helping to preserve and maintain Fort Smith National Historic Site. This opportunity was funded in part by the National Park Foundation, and the crew worked alongside National Park Service staff on projects that introduced participants to preservation trades and maintenance skills.
Aerial view of visitor center
Photo by NPS Photo
Commissary and Supply Wagon
Photo by NPS Photo
Entrance sign in snow
Photo by NPS Photo
Foundations of first Fort Smith and Arkansas River
Photo by NPS Photo
Jail Wagon and Gallows
Photo by NPS Photo
Supply Wagon and visitor center
Photo by NPS Photo
The red brick visitor center framed by two redbud trees with a paved path leading to it.
Photo by NPS Photo
A snow-covered Hawthorn bush partially obscures the red brick visitor center in the background.
Photo by NPS Photo
Purple and orange flowers bloom in the foreground with the red brick visitor center in the back.
Photo by NPS Photo