This weekend we were on hand for the grand reopening of the Lake Fort Smith State Park in Mountainburg, Arkansas. It had been six long years since the park had closed in order to construct a new water supply to meet the demands of future generations in the Fort Smith region. We had the chance to hear many emotional accounts of the beauty and splendor of the old park with its picturesque rocky spillway and WPA built guest cabins. Many lasting memories were made in the old park from 1936 up to January 2002 when the old park closed its gates for the last time.
This weekend a new chapter in Arkansas state parks was born with the opening of the new park. The new 300 acre park, which borders national forest land, boasts several new facilities including an 8,000 square foot visitor center, marina, group lodge, swimming pool, and 30 site campground. Although we didn't have an opportunity to enjoy the old park, we can say that the new park is beautiful in its own right. The Boston Mountains surrounding the lake offer solitude and recreational opportunities for the whole family. Did we mention the people? The staff at Lake Fort Smith State Park treat you like family. This may have been our first time at the park but it certianly won't be the last.
Happy trails,
Topher and Alexis
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