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Summer is a great time to get out and about and spend your free time visiting somewhere new. Next time the sun is shining you could take a trip to one of these top summer activities near Fort Smith, AR. 3 Fun Summer Activities You Can Drive to From Fort Smith, AR Parrot Island Water Park Parrot Island is a great spot to visit to cool off on a hot day. Bring the whole family in your spacious Kia Sorento so the kids can enjoy the children's aquatic play area and the Tiny Turtle's activity pool. There's plenty for the thrill seekers too, with a FlowRider surf simulator, a wave pool, and four large water slides. Inner tubes are complimentary, so grab one and relax on the lazy river. There are plenty of food and drink options at the park, or if you'd rather bring a picnic then there's plenty of seating, or you can rent a cabana. Deck and lounge chairs are free so it's easy to relax by the pool or on the grass lawn areas. Don't forget to grab a souvenir from the Tiki Hut gift shop on your way out. Pine Lake About a 45-minute drive away you'll find Pine Lake, an aquamarine lake in Wood Buffalo National Park. Open from the May long weekend to Labor Day weekend, the sandy beaches and warm water make this spot well worth the trip. The conditions at Pine Lake are perfect for swimming, or if you prefer to stay dry take a kayak or paddleboard and take in the beautiful views of the surrounding forest. Bring your own food and relax at one of the picnic tables. If you prefer a hot meal, there's a cook shelter and fire pits, and firewood is available to buy. You can easily make a trip to Pine Lake into a whole weekend, with plenty of campsites available for both tents and RVs, and lakeside cabins to rent with spectacular views over the water. Creekmore Park This large city park is right in Downtown Fort Smith and has plenty of activities to keep the whole family busy. Hop on board the Creekmore Express miniature train and take a tour of the park, or explore the many walking trails if you prefer your own steam. If you're feeling active there's a fitness trail, tennis courts, and an outdoor Olympic-sized swimming pool with dive boards. Try your hand at miniature golf on the 18-hole family-friendly course, or just kick back and relax at one of the benches and pavilions. There's plenty of shade for those hot summer days and a large play area with equipment to suit kids of all ages. If that's not enough, check out their summer schedule for events such as Movies in the Park and Baking Bootcamp. However you like to spend your summer days, there are plenty of great outdoor options not too far away. When you're ready to make your way home, stop off at Crain Kia of Fort Smith to see how we can help with all your motoring needs. Image via Pixabay.com by Pexels

Farmers' markets are a great place to pick up some delicious fresh produce, and also a great way to support your local community. Next time you fancy a trip out in the car near Fort Smith, AR, take a drive to one of these local options. 3 Favorite Farmers' Markets in Driving Distance of Fort Smith, AR Fort Smith Farmers' Market Located in Historic Downtown Fort Smith, this market is open twice a week on Wednesday and Saturday mornings. Founded in 2003, the market has built a loyal following of vendors over the years with as many as 90 setting up stalls each week. The market offers plenty of fresh produce, including fruit and vegetables, meats, and baked goods. There are also crafts and fine art on offer, all from within a 90-mile radius of Fort Smith. If you visit on a Saturday you'll be entertained too, with street performers and local musicians bringing the market to life. With plenty of parking available nearby there's no excuse not to give this place a go. Chaffee Crossing Farmers' and Artisans' Market With a festival feel, Chaffee Crossing is a great market to visit with the whole family. Each opening, on the second Saturday of the month from May through October, has its own theme with activities for both kids and adults as well as live music and demonstrations. Dogs are more than welcome too so you can take the whole gang in your Kia Carnival MPV. Chaffee Crossing market is a fun family day out, but the main focus is homegrown produce, handmade crafts, and supporting the local people and businesses that sell them. If you can't wait to get home and cook something with your goodies, grab a tasty treat from one of the food trucks providing local freshly cooked food. Twin City Produce Twin City is more of a permanent fixture than the other two options, so if you're desperate for fresh fruit and vegetables and can't wait for a market day elsewhere then this is the place for you. Open 5 days a week (closed Sunday and Monday) you can pop in regularly to keep your supplies topped up. The focus here is fresh local produce at reasonable prices. Fruit, vegetables, beans, and nuts are all sold by the pound or by the case which keeps costs lower, giving you more for your money. The great value, along with helpful friendly staff, will have you returning to Twin City Produce for your regular fresh food shopping. We all know produce tastes best fresh, and you'll be spoilt for choice of delicious local treats at any of these three venues. Whether it's a family day out or a regular stock-up, once you've finished your shopping stop in at Crain Kia of Fort Smith for all your new and used car needs. Image via Pixabay.com by Pexels

If you're looking for a great way to explore nature, consider visiting one of the state parks near Fort Smith, AR. These parks offer plenty of activities for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. Whether you're interested in hiking, fishing, or simply taking a leisurely stroll through the park, you'll find something to enjoy at one of these beautiful destinations. Explore Nature With Your Kia: 2 State Parks a Short Drive From Fort Smith AR 1. Devil's Den State Park Devil's Den State Park is home to various hiking trails, camping sites, and scenic views. Devil's Den is especially well-known for its rock formations which have been carved out over time by wind and water. The park also features several caves that are perfect for exploring on a hot day. In addition to its natural beauty, Devil's Den State Park is also home to various wildlife, including deer, elk, and bighorn sheep. Visitors can enjoy fishing in the park's many streams and ponds. Whether you're looking for a challenging hike or a relaxing day in nature, Devil's Den State Park is sure not to disappoint. 2. Ozark–St. Francis National Forest Ozark National Forest is a nature lover's paradise. Located in the Ozark Mountains of Arkansas, the forest combines two separate forests, Ozark National Forest and St. Francis National Forest. The forest is home to various wildlife, including black bears, deer, and wild turkeys. Also, you can spend your time hiking, camping, and fishing. With over 1 million acres of land to explore, there's something for everyone in Ozark National Forest. So whether you're looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life or you're searching for an adventure, be sure to add Ozark National Forest to your list of must-visit destinations. 3. Lee Creek Park Looking for a great place to take a nature hike? Then be sure to check out Lee Creek Park in Arkansas. This beautiful park features over five miles of hiking trails lined with towering trees and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Best of all, the park is home to various wildlife, including deer, squirrels, and birds. So whether you're looking for a peaceful place to commune with nature or an exciting place for birdwatching, Lee Creek Park is sure to please. The all-new KIA SORENTO SX is the perfect car for taking your family on drives to state parks near Fort Smith. It's a reliable and safe car that's great for families. It has power rear child safety locks, so you can rest assured your kids will be safe during the drive. Don't miss out on this incredible car - come test drive one today. Visit Crain Kia of Fort Smith to find a vehicle that fits your needs.

Originally established in 1817 as a military outpost to patrol the nearby Indian territory, Fort Smith, AR has a unique and colorful history to explore. If you're thirsty for local knowledge, read on to find out about some of the most fascinating historical attractions in the area. 4 Historical Attractions You Can Drive to From Fort Smith, AR 1. Fort Smith National Historic Site If you want to know more about the history of the frontier, the site of an original fort is the very best place to learn about it. With information about western expansion, outlaws, marshalls, the Trail of Tears, and Indian removal policy, this location takes you to the very heart of Fort Smith's identity as a frontier town. Well-preserved and informative, the site has barracks, jails, trails, and courthouses to explore, with the 1838 commissary building standing as the oldest in town. And with Junior Ranger activity books and badges available it's interactive and family-friendly too, making it the perfect excuse to load the family into your roomy Kia Sportage and drive down for an educational day out. 2. Fort Smith Trolley Museum The Fort Smith Trolley Museum is dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of transportation, with a focus on electric-powered street cars. This site features a wide variety of electric street cars, railroad passenger and freight cars, locomotives, motor buses, and work equipment, and it's also possible to take a three-quarter-mile ride on a working 1926 electric Birney streetcar down historic Garrison Avenue. A local reenactment group regularly performs "The Robbing of the Fort Smith Trolley" and cat lovers will appreciate that the site is home to several rescue "trolley cats". With the electric trolley system first established in 1899, this is a great way to learn about this aspect of twentieth-century history. 3. Chaffee Barbershop Museum Known as the location where Elvis Presley famously received his first GI buzz cut in 1958, along with thousands of other army recruits, this site doubles as a repository for military memorabilia. You can learn about Fort Chaffee's role in five wars throughout history by viewing the preserved 1950s barbershop and a large collection of photographs, documents, and newsreel archives. 4. Fort Smith Museum of History Housing a vast collection of artifacts, this museum will tell you about all aspects of the area's development, from antique automobiles to William O Darby, who founded Darby's Rangers in World War Two. It's also possible to enjoy a handmade ice-cream soda and old-time soda fountain in the working exhibit of an early-twentieth-century pharmacy. There's nothing like learning about the heritage of a place to help you to deepen your connection with it and with our dealership's extensive history of offering excellent assistance and support, you can enjoy the same sense of security when shopping for a car. Visit Crain Kia of Fort Smith, and benefit from our long commitment to giving you the very best customer experience. Image via Pixabay.com by WikimediaImages

With awe-inspiring sunsets, waterfalls, and other natural wonders, there's no shortage of scenic views near Fort Smith, AR. Whether you're planning a weeklong trip or an afternoon getaway, there's plenty to choose from if you're looking for spectacular views nearby. Check out our list of some of the best views near Ft. Smith. Take the Kia and Check Out the 3 Best Views Near Fort Smith, AR Devil's Den State Park If you're looking for an affordable trip for the family, load up your Kia Sorento and head over to Devil's Den State Park. You'll get to the park in no time with this three-row roomy SUV with its plentiful cargo space. Located in the Ozark Mountains, Devil's Den is one of the most beautiful places in Arkansas, with stunning views of the surrounding area. Located about 44 miles from Fort Smith, this park is an excellent place for hiking, picnicking, and exploring nature. The many trails wind through the park, including a path that leads to the Yellow Rock Overlook and incredible views of the Lee Creek Valley. The park also features caves, a waterfall, and a lake with swimming areas and picnic pavilions. Fort Smith Historic Site The Fort Smith National Historic Site is an excellent place for those who want to see great views and learn about the history of Fort Smith. It is located in Ft Smith and has many activities for visitors. The Fort Smith National Historic Site was first established as a military base in 1817 by General Andrew Jackson. The first fort at Fort Smith was built on top of a hill overlooking the Arkansas River. Belle Point, the fort's area overlooking the Arkansas and Poteau Rivers, offers fantastic views and is a short walk up the hill. The historic site includes a trail along the Arkansas River with various exhibits detailing the history of Fort Smith. Lake Fort Smith State Park Lake Fort Smith State Park is a great place to visit for the views alone. The 260-acre park sits on the banks of the crystal clear Lake Fort Smith and the edge of the Ozarks National Forest, making it feel like you're in the middle of nowhere. The stunning views feature the 1500 acres of Lake Fort Smith and scenic but strenuous hiking trails. The views are magnificent at sunset when the sun sets over the lake and lights up the sky with shades of orange, purple, and pink. The park is about 32 miles from Fort Smith via I-49. Admission is free, and a visitor's center is open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visit any of these remarkable places when you want incredible views of Mother Nature. The parks have campgrounds but check each site's amenities or restrictions. When you're done exploring, stop by Crain Kia of Fort Smith and see our new and used vehicles. We'll be happy to set up a test drive! Image via Pixabay.com by rehood

Sitting along the banks of the Arkansas River and right beside the Oklahoma state line, the city of Fort Smith, AR, is home to numerous local attractions that make it a great place to visit with your family or a group of friends. Whether you are looking for museums to learn more about the history of the area or nature reserves to get away from the routine, these are some spots you should check out while in town. The Top 3 Local Attractions for Visitors to Fort Smith, AR 1. Fort Smith National Historic Site A preserved 19th-Century fortress complex located right along the eastern bank of the Arkansas River, Fort Smith National Historic Site is, without a doubt, the main historical attraction in town. Open year-round between 9 am and 5 pm, this place allows visitors to learn more about daily life on Native American lands controlled by local Osage Indians and members of a migrating Cherokee band in the early 1800s. Welcoming almost 100,000 visitors each year, Fort Smith National Historic Site is managed by the National Park Service and was established in the 1960s to preserve the remains of two U.S. military forts. The place was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1966 and features the remains of the first fort erected in 1818, as well as a reconstruction of a 19th-Century courtroom, historic barracks, and an original jail building. 2. Clayton House Museum Also known as the W.H.H. Clayton House, this historic house museum is another important local attraction for visitors to Fort Smith. Built in the 1880s, this place is one of the best examples of Victorian architecture in the area, featuring elaborate window frames, a porch with carved columns, and detailed balusters. Nowadays, the building serves as a museum and is an excellent spot to learn about the life of Fort Smith locals in the late 19th Century. Located in the heart of the city's downtown area, Clayton House Museum can be easily reached on foot from other local landmarks, including Fort Smith National Historic Site. This house museum is open Tuesdays through Saturdays between 12:00 and 4:00 pm and on Sundays between 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm. Guided tours for groups and individual visitors are available and can be booked in advance by phone or via email. 3. Ben Geren Regional Park Located about six miles southeast of downtown Fort Smith, Ben Geren Regional Park is a place where locals and visitors can enjoy some time away from the urban bustle, have a picnic with friends, and enjoy some time in nature. Open year-round between 6:30 am and 6:30 pm, this large park features a disc golf course, as well as a playground and a network of hiking and mountain biking trails. Are you ready to explore these and other local landmarks? Before you hit the road, stop by Crain Kia of Ft Smith! Whether you are looking for a new or pre-owned vehicle, we've got you covered! Check out our inventory, learn about our financing plans, and take home your favorite car.

Nestled along the banks of the Arkansas River, our city of Fort Smith has been a regional manufacturing and commercial center for many years. We're the third-largest city in the state, and our history dates back to a military outpost built here in 1817. On top of all of this, we also have some amazing landmarks that will pique the interest of locals and visitors alike. These are a small selection of the amazing places in our home city. The Top 3 Landmarks in and Around Fort Smith, AR Fort Smith National Historic Site This amazing site commemorates 80 years of Fort Smith's history, from the original founding of the fort in 1817 to 1896. The US District Court for Western Arkansas was located here, and the grounds include the remains of the original fort, the commissary building, and a replica working gallows. The Court is known for its most famous incumbent, Federal District Judge Isaac Parker. This fort was a part of the history of the Trail of Tears, as the route followed by the Choctaw and Cherokee people on their way to Indian Territory passed through here. The history of this place covers the life and times of US Deputy Marshals, outlaws, US Cavalry, and the ordinary people who made this their home. The fort is located at 301 Parker Avenue and is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm. Fort Smith National Cemetery For almost 200 years, this cemetery has been the final resting place for members of the US military. Over the years it has grown from a small local cemetery and now comprises 32 acres. Some of Fort Smiths' most famous residents are buried here, including Judge Isaac Parker, and Brigadier General William Darby, flounder of Darby's Rangers in WWII. The headstones are arranged in precise, orderly lines and add an extra solemnity to this sacred ground. The cemetery is tranquil and enhances the dignity of the service the men and women resting here gave to our country. If you are searching for a particular person, the main office has maps showing the resting place of every individual. The cemetery can be found at 522 Garland Avenue and South 6th Street. Clayton House Located at 514 N 6th Street in the Belle Grove Historic District, this beautiful antebellum mansion was built in 1882. This Italianate-style building was the height of luxury in its time. Furnishings are all original, and the structure itself has been lovingly renovated restored to its original splendor. The original owner was Henry Clayton, chief prosecutor in the court of Judge Isaac Parker. Guided tours of the mansion are available, and knowledgeable guides provide fascinating information on the building and its famous past. The mansion is also a venue for elegant social events and weddings. After touring some of our finest local attractions, come in for a test drive at Crain Kia of Ft Smith. We have a huge selection of new and pre-owned cars available for you to choose from.

The location of a wedding should be special and unique. If you're in Fort Smith, AR, and looking for the most popular wedding venues, then you're in luck because we have compiled a list of the most popular wedding locations nearby. 4 Popular Wedding Locations in and Around Fort Smith, AR Heritage Acres Venue Heritage Acres Venue is a breathtaking 45-acre venue that those tying the knot wouldn't want to miss. If you drive nonstop from Fort Smith, it will take about one hour to reach Heritage Acres Venue in Clarksville, Arkansas. Cody and Jessie Toups, husband and wife, operate this venue to inspire and assist couples in beginning their family heritage. Enjoy gorgeous views of Spadra Creek and the soothing sounds of the creek as you stroll along the backside of the property. A rustic romantic ambiance is created by the chandeliers adorning the rustic barn. A beautiful bridal suite is located within the barn for the bride and her bridal party to prepare and get ready before the wedding. Whitney Mountain Lodge Whitney Mountain Lodge is the perfect venue if your vision for your wedding involves romance and rustic elegance surrounded by your family and friends in a venue that overlooks a lake. The Whitney Mountain Lodge is tucked away in Garfield, Arkansas, just an hour and a half from Fort Smith, perched 700 feet above Beaver Lake. This lake view venue has a spacious banquet room, large two-level decks, and three dining rooms to accommodate your momentous event. There are packages for your occasion that include the various spaces or the entire property. Some banquet packages may include hotel rooms. Packages vary according to the size of your event. Mulberry Mountain Lodging & Events This breathtaking ceremony site is the perfect setting for an outdoor Arkansas wedding, where fresh air and stunning views of the Ozark Mountains create a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You can take advantage of the sun's warmth by holding your ceremony outside, then party in the climate-controlled hall. Mulberry Mountain offers 6,000 square feet of indoor reception space within the beautifully constructed Mountain Hall. The reception hall features large cedar beams and a native stone fireplace that create a cozy lodge atmosphere. A wedding at this rustic yet elegant setting in the Ozark Mountains is sure to impress. Kindred Barn Located in Mulberry, Arkansas, Kindred Barn is a beautiful wedding event venue with a 7500 square foot venue space that is fully air-conditioned and heated. The facility boasts a hair and makeup salon, a bridal suite with comfy furniture, a kitchenette, a massage chair, a large floor-to-ceiling mirror, and a private restroom. A groom suite is also available, with comfy furniture, a ping pong table, a private restroom, and a separate entrance. The locations mentioned above are the most popular in and around Fort Smith, Arkansas. You and your significant other should check out these wedding venues. You will need a vehicle in great shape to help you on your quest. Visit Crain Kia of Ft. Smith today and check our latest selection of new and used vehicles.

Fort Smith, AR is the third-largest city in the state. Our city was founded in 1817 as a military outpost and has grown into the thriving metropolis we know today. With over two hundred years of history, our city has numerous fine museums to highlight our city and region's past. These are some of our best museums in Fort Smith, AR for you to enjoy. 3 of the Best Museums to Visit in Fort Smith, AR Fort Smith Museum of History Established in 1910, this amazing museum features exhibits focussing on the historical contributions of Fort Smith's citizens. The building itself was built in 1906 as the Atkinson-Williams Warehouse and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. William O. Darby, a distinguished soldier who founded Darby's Rangers, which became the United States Army Rangers after WWII, is honored here with a room dedicated to him. Judge Isaac C. Parker, the famous "Hanging Judge" is also remembered here in a replication of his courtroom. Other amazing exhibits include a history of broadcasting exhibit, an American hand tool exhibit, and a 1920s-1940s pharmacy complete with a working soda fountain for refreshments. The museum is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm, and is located at 320 Rogers Avenue. The entrance fee is $7 for adults and $2 for children. The Clayton House Located at 514 N. 6th Street, this beautiful 19th-century house has been carefully restored to its former elegance. The house has served as a venue for weddings and other gatherings for more than 100 years and provides visitors with a slice of the life of a very well-to-do family in the 1880s. This was originally the home of Henry H Clayton, chief prosecutor to the famous court of Judge Isaac C. Parker. Group tours are available for 15 or more guests and include an afternoon tea and a guided tour of the house and grounds. For a history buff, or anyone interested in beautifully restored great houses, this is a must-visit venue. Fort Smith Regional Art Museum This museum, located at 1601 Rogers Avenue, is not large at 16,000 square feet, but it spreads over two floors and houses an amazing collection of art. The staff at the museum are very knowledgeable about the exhibits, and art mediums covered include painting, sculpture, ceramic, photography, and stoneware. Art classes for adults and children are also offered onsite, and lectures and artist-led workshops are available to join. There is a permanent collection of artwork, but local artists can also exhibit their work, and traveling art exhibits also find a place here. A gift shop is available in the museum and includes one-of-a-kind artwork for sale. After sampling some of the greatest history and culture in the state, come and book a test drive with us today at Crain Kia. We have an amazing collection of both new and pre-owned vehicles in our showroom. Your next car is waiting right here for you.

We all love to get outside and enjoy the fresh air, but sometimes we need a little help coming up with ideas. If you're looking for some inspiration on what to do this weekend, here are five outdoor activities near Fort Smith, AR that will have you feeling refreshed and ready for the week ahead! 5 Enjoyable Outdoor Activities to Try Near Fort Smith, AR 1. Fishing at Torraine Lake Ben Geren Regional Park features Torraine Lake, a Family and Community Fishing Program lake. A mile-long paved walking path with two footbridges has now been constructed around the lake. Canoes and kayaks are permitted, but they must be taken from the parking lot. No motorized boats or other vessels of any sort are allowed. Visitors are asked to strictly follow Arkansas fishing and boating regulations and exercise basic safety practices. 2. Trail Biking at Ben Geren Trails Ben Geren Regional Park now has one of Arkansas' 11 best mountain bike trails. At Ben Geren Regional Park, there are presently 14 miles of rough-terrain mountain biking tracks that have been designed for cyclists of all ages and all levels of experience. The trail is a mix of some double-track courses mixed with some single-track trails. 3. Skating at Riverfront Skate & Bike Park The skate and bike park has a 12,000-square-foot area that sits on the banks of the Arkansas River. The park features pump tracks, a vertical wall, a mountain bike playground, and so much more. The park has sections for beginner, intermediate, and advanced-level biking and skating as well as a pathway that links it to the Greg Smith River Trail. 4. Mountain Biking at Mount Nebo Mount Nebo, which rises 1,350 feet, provides panoramic views of the Arkansas River Valley. Fourteen kilometers of pathways surround Mount Nebo. The 4 1/2-mile Bench Trail is a relatively level route that travels around Mount Nebo's natural terraces and is ideal for mountain bikers. The route takes you through the mixed hardwood and pine forest past ancient springs and Fern Lake, where you can enjoy rock work done by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the early 1930s. 5. Golfing at the Deer Trails Country Club Deer Trails Country Club is a nine-hole course in Fort Smith, Arkansas's Chaffee Crossing, with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The course is available to the public seven days a week and offers excellent hybrid Bermuda greens. While it is an excellent course for recreational golfers, it can also pose a fair challenge to more experienced ones. If you live in Fort Smith, Arkansas, and are looking for a way to enjoy the outdoors with your family without having to drive too far from home, we may have some suggestions for you. Whether it's hiking or biking that interests you or fishing or kayaking—there is something out there for everyone! While you're out and about, visit Crain Kia of Fort Smith if you want to find your ideal vehicle. We offer competitive prices on all our new models as well as quality pre-owned vehicles.

Fort Smith, AR may be one of the biggest cities in the state, but that doesn't mean locals can't enjoy nature. In fact, the city is surrounded by beautiful woodlands, meadows, prairies, hills, and other habitats, making it the perfect place for a variety of animal species to make their homes. It's also an ideal place for birdwatching, so grab your binoculars and get on out there! Where to Go Birdwatching Near Fort Smith, AR 1. Lake Elmdale If you're keen to see waterfowl and a wide range of migratory birds, Lake Elmdale is the place to be. This manmade lake is packed full of fish, contributing to the presence of plenty of fish-eating birds, including great blue herons and night herons. Located just an hour's drive north of Fort Smith, this beautiful lake is a great spot to visit all year round. There are a number of great vantage points around the water, so you're sure to find a great spot for a few hours of birding. 2. Ozark National Forest This untouched area of mixed woodland is a real favorite with Arkansas bird lovers. Thousands of acres of trees provide a perfect home for a variety of species, and in the warmer months, the air comes alive with the sound of birdsong. Species commonly seen in the park include Acadian flycatcher, cerulean warbler, and wood thrush. You'll find Ozark National Forest in Russellville, about a 15-minute drive from Fort Smith's downtown area. It's immediately next to the St. Francis National Forest, which lies just over the Oklahoma border and is home to plenty more bird species. 3. Hobbs State Park Conservation Area This vast nature preserve spreads over 12,000 acres of pristine Arkansas land, taking in a variety of landscapes and offering a home to hundreds of wildlife species. Yellow-throated warblers, red crossbills, and American Redstart are among the varied species that be seen in the area. Almost 35 miles of trails wind through the trail, offering plenty of great places to see different species. The Pigeon Roost Trail also features a number of scenic campsites for those looking to extend their stay. 4. Holla Bend National Wildlife Refuge With its blend of wetlands, meadows, and hardwood forests, Holla Bend National Wildlife Refuge is something of a paradise for birding enthusiasts. Keep your eyes peeled and you'll see greater roadrunners, lark sparrows, painted buntings, and many more. One particularly interesting species that resides within the refuge is the trumpeter swan. Once almost extinct in the United States, this black-billed bird is a striking sight. Although it's almost a 2-hour drive from Fort Smith, Holla Bend National Wildlife Refuge is well worth the drive. You'll find plenty of parking onsite, and there's also a visitor center, offering trail maps and other resources to help you get the best out of your visit. To enjoy all these amazing spots and discover more of what the local area has to offer, you'll need a safe and reliable way to get around. Come on down to Crain Kia of Fort Smith today for an amazing deal on a new or pre-owned vehicle.

Fort Smith, AR is the perfect place to live if you love exploring nature. Within a short drive of our city, there are six great parks that make for fantastic day trips. If you're looking for an adventure this weekend, check out one of these spots! 6 Great Parks Near Fort Smith, AR 1) Creekmore Park Creekmore Park is one of Fort Smith's underrated gems. It is one of Fort Smith's community hubs, and it's right near the old Fort Smith Public Library in the heart of the city. Its one-of-a-kind features allow visitors to experience the park at any time of year. Many people come to Creekmore for sports, such as tennis or golf, but there's also a nice amount of shade for picnics and quiet strolls. The paved trail that loops around the park makes for a leisurely walk or run. 2) Carol Ann Cross Park Carol Ann Cross Park is another community park in Fort Smith, but it's much quieter than Creekmore. This park is located at 1601 South 74th Street and has plenty of room for sports and exploration. The best thing about Carol Ann Cross is the playground: there are plenty of swings and jungle gyms for kids to play on and a set of tire swings for some added fun. If you enjoy walks or runs, there's also an unpaved trail that goes around the entire park. 3) Fort Smith Park Fort Smith Park is one of the more prominent spots in Fort Smith and has several amenities for visitors to enjoy. There's a children's playground,  a walking trail, and an excellent fishing spot on the Arkansas River.  The park also has a variety of trees, which provide shade for picnics and strolls. There's even an off-leash area for pets! 4) Lake Fort Smith State Park In the past few years, Fort Smith has been growing as a hub for water sports. There are two new boat ramps at Lake Fort Smith, as well as several paddle-in camping spots. Although Lake Fort Smith is only accessible by car during the summer and fall, it's still popular with hikers and bikers during these months. The hiking trails are all on the north side of the lake and provide beautiful views of the surrounding terrain. 5) Anniversary Rose Garden If you're looking for a quick and local sight to see, check out the Anniversary Rose Garden. This spot is located across from the Fort Smith Regional Art Museum and contains over 4,000 roses. Several trails wind through different garden areas, which makes it easy to spend all day there! 6) Ben Geren Regional Park As the only regional park in Fort Smith, Ben Geren is a very popular destination. It has everything from sports fields to an amphitheater. This urban oasis also contains several nature trails that are great for nature enthusiasts or those looking for a quiet stroll. The six spots we've highlighted here are just a sampling of what Fort Smith has to offer. There's plenty more for you and your family to discover in the city, so be sure to take some time out of your day this weekend or on any other given day and explore these great public spaces! If you find yourself needing a vehicle from our dealership while exploring these lush areas, stop on by Crain Kia Fort Smith!