Page 26 - 2025 Van Buren Chamber Community Profile

QUALITY OF PLACE

located within the park, as well as School District (VBSD) as a way to help the drop-in points are located within just
basketball courts and other amenities. overall wellness of students and families. a short distance of Van Buren and the
Smaller parks and recreation areas VBSD has received more than $670,000 in surrounding community.
are also found throughout the area. Mike grants to install new tracks and trails, as Golf
Meyer Park sits along the Arkansas River well as fitness equipment on campuses. In nearby Alma, you will find the 18-
next to the city’s historic wall mural. To complete these projects, VBSD has hole Eagle Crest Golf Course. Considered
Originally painted by Van Buren High partnered with both the city and county. one of Arkansas’ premier golf courses, it
School students in the 1980s, the artwork The walkways and outdoor equipment are is a part of the Natural State Golf Trail.
gives a glimpse into the area’s rich history. available to students during school hours The award-winning facility is a par 71, and
Nearby Lee Creek Park boasts 104 acres and open to the public after hours. includes a driving range, putting greens,
along the riverfront, making it the city’s Fishing and Boating clubhouse, shop and golf pro. Multiple
largest park. It is a popular spot for fishing Local fishing and boating enthusiasts golf courses are also located in Fort Smith,
or launching watercraft. have direct access to the area’s gorgeous giving golfers ample choices to enjoy a
Additional recreation areas include the waterways. Nestled on the Arkansas River, day on the links.
Chad and Betty Ann Colley Wilderness Van Buren offers the perfect opportunity
Park and Van Zandt Park. Located in the to fish for bass, crappie, catfish and trout. State Parks & Nature Centers
Rolling Hills Subdivision, Van Zandt is a Anglers of all types can find a great Several state parks and nature centers
small neighborhood park with a large open spot to reel in their next big catch. The are spread throughout the region and are
area, basketball court, and two pickle ball area routinely hosts professional fishing easily accessible from Van Buren. Nearby
courts. tournaments and competitions. Lake Fort Smith State Park is among
Freedom Park in downtown Van Buren Other fishing holes are scattered Arkansas’ most popular destinations.
and Peer Memorial Park are favorite throughout Van Buren and surrounding Located inside the Boston Mountain
holiday stops. The two areas light up during communities. Located on Highway 59, Range, the park features a beautiful
the Christmas season, with downtown Lake Louemma is a popular spot for 1,400-acre lake and stunning views. The
featuring the illuminated Freedom Tree, families and groups to gather. Dr. Louis nearly century-old park has undergone
and the city park hosting a drive-through Peer Memorial Park is home to Lake Cap several major renovations, but has
musical light display. maintained much of its original charm,
Bedell, which is routinely stocked by the
Trails Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. which keeps visitors returning again and
Van Buren has significantly invested in Nearby Lee Creek and Natural Dam also again. The Visitor Center pays homage
to the park’s rich history and abundant
its trails system and pedestrian walkways include places to fish and take a peaceful resources.
over the past several years. Trails range walk in nature. Those wanting to stay at Lake Fort
from gradual inclines to more rugged You don’t have to look hard to find Smith State Park can reserve individual
mountain terrains. Some routes can be adventure. The Mulberry River is well- cabins or camp sites or rent watercraft.
found along the Arkansas River, city park, known for whitewater floating and its Lodging and conference facilities are
Chaffee Crossing, or in the surrounding Class II rapids. The 70 mile tributary of also available for booking retreats,
state parks or nature centers. the Arkansas River has businesses where reunions, and receptions.
Usage of outdoor trails has been visitors can rent canoes, kayaks and rafts
heavily promoted by the Van Buren for their journey down the river. Several Continued on page 28

PRE-PLANNING

TRADITIONAL FUNERALS

CREMATION SERVICES

MEMORIAL SERVICES

1805 NORTH A ST - FORT SMITH, AR 72901 | CALL: 479.551.0981 | VISIT: RIVERGLENN.COM
26 Van Buren Chamber 2025 Community Profile vanburenchamber.org