Plan Like a Park Ranger for Fort Smith National Historic Site

The visitor center at Fort Smith National Historic Site.

NPS Photo

Are you planning on visiting Fort Smith National Historic Site? Before your visit, be sure to plan like a park ranger! Use our top ten tips to make sure that your trip is fun, happy, and memorable.

1. Plan for the weather

Summer humidity and temperatures over 100 degrees Fahrenheit can create a dangerous situation if you’re not prepared. To prevent heat-related illness, be sure to:

• Keep an eye on the forecast and look out for severe weather events.
• Carry enough water for yourself and your group.
• Use sunscreen and wear a hat to protect your skin.
• Don't leave pets in the car, and make sure they have enough water, too!
• For more information, check out the CDC's tips for extreme heat.

2. Plan like a BARK Ranger

When visiting Fort Smith National Historic Site with your pets, remember to BARK:

• Bag your pet's waste - bag dispensers and garbage bins can be found along our walking trails.
• Always use a leash - keeping your dog under control helps protect them and others.
• Respect wildlife - squirrels and birds like to be left alone!
• Know where you can go - remember that pets other than service animals are not allowed inside the visitor center, but are welcome outside.

Visiting with a pet? Learn more about the Fort Smith BARK Ranger Program on our website.

3. Watch for wildlife

Potentially hazardous wildlife such as fire ants, wasps, and snakes may be present on park grounds. Pay attention to where you walk and if you see them, leave them alone!

4. Consider pedestrian safety

For safety reasons, motorized vehicles and bicycles are not allowed on the walking trails. Please consider leaving them at home or in the parking lot. Wheelchairs are always allowed!

5. Leave only footprints

We may not always be aware of our lasting impacts on nature. To make sure you're leaving only footprints and taking only memories, follow the seven principles of Leave No Trace!

1. Plan ahead and prepare. Knowing the rules and regulations before you go can make a big difference!
2. Travel on durable surfaces. Stick to the pavement to prevent damage to park resources.
3. Dispose of waste properly. Trash bins can be found alongside walking trails and in the visitor center.
4. Leave what you find. You're welcome to examine and photograph natural and historical objects, but please leave them behind.
5. Minimize campfire impacts. Fires are not allowed at Fort Smith National Historic Site unless part of an approved Living History demonstration.
6. Respect wildlife. Be sure to give animals enough space - they like to be left alone!
7. Be considerate of other visitors. Be courteous while walking and avoid loud voices and noises.

For more information, check out this NPS article on Leave No Trace.

6. Become a Junior Ranger

Kids of all ages can become official Fort Smith Junior Rangers! Ask a park ranger or volunteer at the visitor center for a Junior Ranger activity booklet.

Learn more about the Fort Smith Junior Ranger Program on our website.

7. Download the NPS App

The NPS App gives you access to self-guided tours and other park information at your fingertips. You can download information from any site before you visit to have access wherever you go.

Learn more about the NPS App.

8. Keep in touch!

Fort Smith National Historic Site hosts a variety of fun and educational events including Living History, Historic Weapons Demonstrations, and the Annual Fort Smith Fall Festival. Follow us on Facebook and check out our event calendar to make sure you don't miss out!

9. Ask a Ranger

Take advantage of the resources on our Plan Your Visit webpage, including finding our hours, trip ideas, and directions to our visitor center.

If you can't find the answer to your question online, send us an email or call us at 479 783-3961.

10. Visit other parks and museums

The history doesn't end here! Visit our Nearby Attractions webpage to find more things to do in and around Fort Smith.