Alex Smith Park in Miller County, Arkansas has received almost $80,000 from the state’s Office of Outdoor Recreation to make improvements on the 60-year-old park that is popular among camping enthusiasts.
Miller County Judge Cathy Harrison said that the funds will be used to upgrade the 80-acre southern portion of the park, which includes the installation of a third pavilion, purchase of picnic tables and playground equipment, and the renovation of a 1920s-era log house into a welcoming center for weddings and family reunions.
Smith Park, located about 12 miles south of Texarkana on state Highway 237, features an 8-foot-deep stocked fishing pond, basketball court, archery, and shooting ranges.
The park, which has 14 natural springs, has received tens of thousands of dollars in grants from the state in recent years to make improvements to the 320-acre site.
Some of the more notable improvements include the placement of identification tags on trees and the construction of four walking and hiking trails that cover about 2 miles.
This latest grant will help improve the amenities and infrastructure of the park and make it an even more attractive destination for camping enthusiasts and nature lovers.
The new pavilion, picnic tables, and playground equipment will enhance the visitor experience, while the renovated log house will provide a charming venue for weddings and family reunions.
With these upgrades, Alex Smith Park will continue to be a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike.
The grant received by Miller County for upgrades at the park is an indication of the state’s recognition of the value of outdoor recreation to the local economy and the importance of providing high-quality outdoor experiences to visitors.
The upgrades at the park, including the addition of a third pavilion, playground equipment, and a welcoming center for weddings and family reunions, will likely attract more visitors to the park and create a positive economic impact for the surrounding community.
With the addition of a third pavilion, picnic tables, and playground equipment, the park will provide a better visitor experience, attracting more people to the area.
This increased traffic to the park could lead to a greater demand for nearby private campgrounds as visitors seek out places to stay during their outdoor adventures.
Additionally, the renovation of the 1920s-era log house into a welcoming center for weddings and family reunions could also bring more visitors to the area, providing a potential boost to the local economy.