Harry E. Kelley River Park - Image 1
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Harry E. Kelley River Park

4.6
·735 reviews·Fort Smith, United States

A scenic riverside park with a paved trail for biking and walking, an amphitheater, and fishing access.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunset

Scenic river views

CrowdMedium
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Harry E. Kelley River Park - Image 1

Harry E. Kelley River Park

Best Time

Sunset

Scenic river views

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A scenic riverside park with a paved trail for biking and walking, an amphitheater, and fishing access.

4.6
(735 reviews)

"This trail is beautiful, peaceful. The morale on this trail is unique with the people of this town."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚴‍♀️ Bike the River Trail

The paved trail is wide and scenic, great for road bikes. Pass others safely and enjoy the views!

🎣 Bank Fishing Spots

Look for spots along the Riverfront Trail. Confirm park closing times for overnight fishing.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Paved River Trail

Paved River Trail

Along the Arkansas River

A scenic, well-maintained path perfect for biking, walking, and skating with beautiful river views.

Outdoor Amphitheater

Outdoor Amphitheater

Central park area

A vibrant space for music festivals and community events, offering a lively atmosphere.

Riverside Fishing

Riverside Fishing

Along the river banks

Enjoy bank fishing with potential for overnight stays, though park hours should be confirmed.

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Planning Your Visit

Trail Etiquette & Safety

The paved river trail is popular for biking and walking. Be mindful of others, especially when passing. While generally safe, be aware of your surroundings, and note that restrooms can be scarce along the trail.

Park Hours & Access

Most areas of Harry E. Kelley River Park, including fishing spots and the amphitheater, have specific closing times. Check park hours before planning an overnight fishing trip or late-night visit.

Best Times

When
Sunset
Why
Scenic river views
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Peaceful trails
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

River Bank fishing Fort Smith

🚴‍♀️ Bike the River Trail

The paved trail is wide and scenic, great for road bikes. Pass others safely and enjoy the views! Reddit

🎣 Bank Fishing Spots

Look for spots along the Riverfront Trail. Confirm park closing times for overnight fishing. Reddit

☀️ Shaded Picnic Areas

Find a shaded spot for a relaxing picnic, perfect for a break during your park visit. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Feel Safe Walking

Female visitors report feeling very safe on the clean, well-maintained trails. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🚴‍♀️ Bike the River Trail

The paved trail is wide and scenic, great for road bikes. Pass others safely and enjoy the views! Reddit

🎣 Bank Fishing Spots

Look for spots along the Riverfront Trail. Confirm park closing times for overnight fishing. Reddit

☀️ Shaded Picnic Areas

Find a shaded spot for a relaxing picnic, perfect for a break during your park visit. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Feel Safe Walking

Female visitors report feeling very safe on the clean, well-maintained trails. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(735 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Harry E. Kelley River Park for its beautiful, well-maintained river trail, ideal for biking and walking, and the overall safe atmosphere. The park offers good recreational facilities like an amphitheater and skate park, though the scarcity of restrooms is a noted drawback.

"Very nice, long trail. It's wide enough for you to safely pass people if you're biking. I was able to ride my road bike at a faster pace without feeling like I would run someone over.
It's very clean & well maintained; pretty/scenic! And, as a female, I felt very safe."

Liz Wilson

"Neat park! Skate park, climbing things for kids & a shaded area for resting or a picnic. Wish there would have been music today!"

Melody Dawn Gentry

"New area for us finding new trails to ride . No restrooms anywhere in site. Loved Fort Smith. The Marshals Museum was amazing and we went to the Farmers Market that was great and ate at Bricktown Brewery and the food was great and service."

Tracy Jay

What People Like

Scenic river trail
Clean and safe
Good for biking

What People Dislike

Limited restrooms

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The park is accessible by car, with parking available near the main recreational areas and along the river trail. Specific directions can be found using GPS navigation. Reddit

Information on public transportation routes to Harry E. Kelley River Park is limited. It's recommended to check local transit schedules or consider ride-sharing services. Reddit

Parking is available in designated lots throughout the park, particularly near the amphitheater, skate park, and along the riverfront trail. Reddit

Harry E. Kelley River Park is generally free to enter and use, making it an accessible recreational spot for everyone. Reddit

The paved river trail is generally accessible, offering a smooth surface for wheelchairs and strollers. Specific accessibility details for other park amenities should be verified. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

While the park itself may be open for extended periods, specific areas like the amphitheater and fishing access points often have closing times. It's best to confirm hours for planned activities. Reddit

Tickets are typically required for events held at the outdoor amphitheater, such as music festivals. Check event listings for specific ticketing information. Reddit

Overnight fishing is possible, but be aware that certain areas of the park, including fishing access points, close at specific times. Plan accordingly. Reddit

While not explicitly stated in reviews, it's common for parks to have leash laws for pets. Always check local regulations before visiting with animals. Reddit

Picnic areas are generally available on a first-come, first-served basis. For larger gatherings, it's advisable to arrive early or inquire about potential reservation options. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Enjoy walking, biking, skating, skateboarding, and scootering on the paved river trail. The park also features a skate park, climbing structures for kids, and an outdoor amphitheater for events. Reddit+1

Restroom availability can be limited, especially along the longer stretches of the river trail. Plan your visit accordingly and be prepared. Reddit

Yes, the paved river trail is ideal for cycling, including road bikes, due to its width and smooth surface, allowing for faster paces without issue. Reddit

The paved trail along the Arkansas River offers beautiful scenic views, especially during sunset. Reddit

Female visitors have reported feeling very safe while walking on the trails, highlighting the park's clean and well-maintained environment. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no restaurants directly within the park. However, nearby Fort Smith offers various dining options, including Bricktown Brewery. Reddit

Absolutely! The park features picnic tables and shaded areas, making it a great spot for a picnic lunch or dinner. Reddit

The city of Fort Smith, adjacent to the park, has a range of dining establishments. Visitors have enjoyed places like Bricktown Brewery. Reddit

Food vendors may be present during events at the amphitheater, but this varies by event. It's advisable to check event details or bring your own snacks. Reddit

While not explicitly mentioned, water fountains are not a prominent feature. It's recommended to bring your own water, especially for longer visits or strenuous activities. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Sunset offers particularly beautiful lighting and scenic views of the river, making it an ideal time for photography. Reddit

The paved river trail with its scenic river views, the outdoor amphitheater, and the general riverside landscape are popular subjects for photos. Reddit

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check with local authorities or park management regarding any restrictions on drone operation. Reddit

While the park focuses on recreation, its proximity to Fort Smith means visitors can explore historical sites nearby, like the Fort Smith National Historic Site, for photography. Reddit

A versatile camera with a good zoom lens would be beneficial for capturing both wide river landscapes and details of park features. A wide-angle lens is great for the trails. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Harry E. Kelley River Park is a great spot for families, offering dedicated areas for children's fun. The park features climbing structures that kids can enjoy, providing a safe and engaging space for active play. Reddit Additionally, there's a skate park for older children and teens looking to practice their skills. The wide, paved river trail is also perfect for family bike rides or leisurely walks, allowing everyone to explore the scenic surroundings together. Reddit

While the park offers plenty of outdoor activity, parents should be aware of the limited restroom facilities. It’s advisable to plan bathroom breaks strategically, perhaps before heading out on the longer stretches of the trail. Bringing snacks and drinks is also recommended, as food options within the park are minimal, though picnic tables are available for family meals. Reddit

🎣 Anglers and Fishermen

For fishing enthusiasts, Harry E. Kelley River Park offers opportunities for bank fishing along the Arkansas River. The riverfront trail provides accessible spots to cast a line. Reddit Some visitors are interested in overnight fishing, but it's essential to note that the park and its access points have specific operating hours and may close after dark. Reddit Therefore, planning your fishing trip to align with park hours is crucial to avoid any issues.

While the park is a good location for a fishing excursion, be prepared for the possibility of limited amenities. As mentioned, restrooms can be scarce, so it's wise to be self-sufficient. The scenic river setting, however, provides a pleasant backdrop for a day of fishing. Reddit+1

🚴‍♀️ Cyclists and Skaters

The paved river trail at Harry E. Kelley River Park is a dream for cyclists and skaters. Its wide, smooth surface is perfect for road bikes, allowing for fast and unimpeded riding. Reddit Whether you're looking for a vigorous workout or a relaxed cruise, the trail accommodates various paces. Skaters and scooter riders will also find the path ideal for their activities. The scenic river views enhance the experience, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy active pursuits on wheels. Reddit

Beyond the trail, the park also features a dedicated skate park, offering a more challenging environment for skaters. Visitors can spend hours honing their tricks and enjoying the dedicated facilities. Remember to stay hydrated and be aware of other users on the trail, especially during busier times. Reddit+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the River Trail

The Harry E. Kelley River Park boasts a fantastic paved river trail that stretches along the Arkansas River. This trail is a major draw for locals and visitors alike, offering a smooth and wide surface perfect for a variety of activities. Cyclists appreciate its suitability for road bikes, allowing for a brisk pace without worrying about obstacles or crowded conditions. Walkers, skaters, and scooter enthusiasts also find it an ideal place to enjoy the outdoors. The trail provides continuous scenic views of the river, making it a pleasant experience for exercise or a leisurely stroll. Reddit

Beyond its recreational use, the trail is noted for its cleanliness and excellent maintenance, contributing to a positive user experience. Many visitors, including solo female travelers, have commented on feeling very safe while using the trail, which is a significant factor for many planning their outings. The morale among users is often described as unique and positive, adding to the park's welcoming atmosphere. Reddit

While the trail itself is a highlight, it's worth noting that restroom facilities can be sparse along its length. Visitors are advised to plan accordingly, especially for longer excursions. Despite this minor inconvenience, the overall experience of exploring the river trail is overwhelmingly positive, offering a beautiful and safe environment for outdoor activity. Reddit+1

Park Amenities and Activities

Harry E. Kelley River Park offers a range of amenities designed for recreation and community engagement. The outdoor amphitheater is a central feature, frequently hosting music festivals and other events that bring a lively atmosphere to the park. Reddit For younger visitors, there are climbing structures and a skate park, providing dedicated spaces for active play and skill development. These facilities make the park a versatile destination for families and individuals seeking different forms of outdoor entertainment. Reddit

Fishing is another popular activity, with opportunities for bank fishing along the river. While some visitors have inquired about overnight fishing, it's crucial to be aware of the park's specific closing times, as not all areas may be accessible after dark. Reddit The park also provides picnic tables in shaded areas, making it an excellent spot for a relaxed meal outdoors. Reddit

Despite the variety of activities, a recurring point in visitor feedback is the limited availability of restrooms throughout the park. This is a practical consideration for visitors planning extended stays or engaging in strenuous activities. Nevertheless, the combination of recreational facilities and natural beauty makes Harry E. Kelley River Park a valuable community asset. Reddit

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