• Rifle Regiment arriving at Belle Point, 1817. Artwork by Michael Haynes

    Fort Smith

    National Historic Site AR,OK

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  • Road Construction I-540

    Traveling West on I-40? To avoid construction delays, do not take Exit 7 (I-540 S). Stay on I-40 west and take Exit 1 Dora. Stay on Hwy 64D for 6 miles and follow signs to Fort Smith. After crossing over the river, turn right on 4th ST & right on Garland. More »

For Kids

Junior Ranger Program

Children ages 5-12 can become Junior Park Rangers at Fort Smith National Historic Site. They will have fun as they learn about soldiers, Native Americans, deputy marshals, outlaws, and Judge Parker. After completing 4 activities in a free booklet, they will be sworn in as Junior Rangers and receive an offical Fort Smith National Historic Site Junior Ranger badge. Inquire at the front desk for the activity booklet.

 

 
 
Fort Smith Junior Ranger Badge

Did You Know?

Park staff and volunteers demonstrating using lindstock and slowmatch to ignite the cannon's primer

The soldiers who came to Fort Smith in 1817 were still using some 18th century technology and drill. The cannon was discharged using a lindstock and slowmatch to ignite the primer, which originally was loose powder or a turkey quill filled with powder.