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.
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