With the Arkansas River running along the northern city limits, Fort Smith, AR offers some excellent boating destinations for both residents and visitors alike. There are also plenty of lakes and state parks in the area that are within easy driving distance of the city and which provide perfect locations for a day out on the water. Here are three of our favorite spots for taking the boat out within easy driving distance of the city.
3 Great Spots for Boating You Can Drive to From Fort Smith, AR
1. Mulberry River, Ozark
The Mulberry River begins within the Ozarks and winds its way 70 miles until it converges with the Arkansas River. It is especially popular among the canoeing and kayaking fraternities, due in part to the challenge it presents in certain areas over the early spring. Described as one of the most accessible rivers in Arkansas, there are plenty of spots along the banks to pull on for a picnic lunch or a spot of fishing.
With much of the river located within the Ozarks, the scenery at times is breathtaking along the 40 or so miles that are floatable, featuring narrow canyons, woods, and tree-lined bluffs. There’s also a good chance of spotting a bear along the banks, with the area home to the state’s largest population of black bears.
2. Tenkiller State Park
Just over the state line in Oklahoma is the Tenkiller State Park, another popular spot for local boaters. Over the summer months, Lake Tenkiller is a hive of activity, with water sports enthusiasts and boaters flocking to the area. The lake has 130 miles of shoreline and is over 13,000 square acres, so there is no difficulty finding a quiet spot away from the crowds.
The spacious interior of the Kia Sorrento will be a real advantage should you wish to make a weekend of it and stay at one of the camping sites or cabins available at the state park. There is also excellent fishing on the lake for those looking to catch a fresh fish dinner to round out their day in the outdoors.
3. Lake Eufaula State Park
Lake Eufaula is Oklahoma’s largest lake and certainly won’t disappoint the boaters out there. With 600 miles of shoreline comprising cliffs, sandy beaches, and forests, there are plenty of places to explore that can only be accessed by water. The fish supply is plentiful at the lake, with it being a popular tournament fishing location.
There are plenty of accommodation options available, both within the state park and the nearby towns, for those looking to spend an extended period of time in the area. With a range of water sports, hiking trails, and different scenery to explore in addition to getting out on the water in the boat, it’s likely to be a popular destination among the whole family.
The area around Fort Smith certainly has plenty on offer for those with a boat. If you’re looking for some extra towing power to get your boat to its destination, give the team at Crain Kia of Fort Smith a call today.
Image via Pixabay.com by Quangpraha
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