
Harry E. Kelley River Park
A scenic riverside park with a paved trail for biking and walking, an amphitheater, and fishing access.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Scenic river views

Harry E. Kelley River Park
Best Time
Scenic river views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic riverside park with a paved trail for biking and walking, an amphitheater, and fishing access.
"This trail is beautiful, peaceful. The morale on this trail is unique with the people of this town."

🚴♀️ 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.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Paved River Trail
Along the Arkansas River
A scenic, well-maintained path perfect for biking, walking, and skating with beautiful river views.

Outdoor Amphitheater
Central park area
A vibrant space for music festivals and community events, offering a lively atmosphere.

Riverside Fishing
Along the river banks
Enjoy bank fishing with potential for overnight stays, though park hours should be confirmed.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Etiquette & Safety
Park Hours & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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!
🎣 Bank Fishing Spots
Look for spots along the Riverfront Trail. Confirm park closing times for overnight fishing.
☀️ Shaded Picnic Areas
Find a shaded spot for a relaxing picnic, perfect for a break during your park visit.
🚶♀️ Feel Safe Walking
Female visitors report feeling very safe on the clean, well-maintained trails.
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!
🎣 Bank Fishing Spots
Look for spots along the Riverfront Trail. Confirm park closing times for overnight fishing.
☀️ Shaded Picnic Areas
Find a shaded spot for a relaxing picnic, perfect for a break during your park visit.
🚶♀️ Feel Safe Walking
Female visitors report feeling very safe on the clean, well-maintained trails.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
Parking is available in designated lots throughout the park, particularly near the amphitheater, skate park, and along the riverfront trail.
Harry E. Kelley River Park is generally free to enter and use, making it an accessible recreational spot for everyone.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
Tickets are typically required for events held at the outdoor amphitheater, such as music festivals. Check event listings for specific ticketing information.
Overnight fishing is possible, but be aware that certain areas of the park, including fishing access points, close at specific times. Plan accordingly.
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.
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.
🎫 🏞️ 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.
Restroom availability can be limited, especially along the longer stretches of the river trail. Plan your visit accordingly and be prepared.
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.
The paved trail along the Arkansas River offers beautiful scenic views, especially during sunset.
Female visitors have reported feeling very safe while walking on the trails, highlighting the park's clean and well-maintained environment.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants directly within the park. However, nearby Fort Smith offers various dining options, including Bricktown Brewery.
Absolutely! The park features picnic tables and shaded areas, making it a great spot for a picnic lunch or dinner.
The city of Fort Smith, adjacent to the park, has a range of dining establishments. Visitors have enjoyed places like Bricktown Brewery.
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.
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.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunset offers particularly beautiful lighting and scenic views of the river, making it an ideal time for photography.
The paved river trail with its scenic river views, the outdoor amphitheater, and the general riverside landscape are popular subjects for photos.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check with local authorities or park management regarding any restrictions on drone operation.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
🎣 Anglers and Fishermen
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.
🚴♀️ Cyclists and Skaters
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the River Trail
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.
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.
Park Amenities and Activities
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. The park also provides picnic tables in shaded areas, making it an excellent spot for a relaxed meal outdoors.
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.






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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit