Lake Fort Smith State Park is making more room for visitors to stay. Ten new cabins are under construction in an effort to rebuild the park after it was flooded in 2002 and forced to move to a new location.
It’s been ten years since the park has had cabins for guests, but Park Superintendent Ron Gossage says that’s all about to change.
"We made a promise when we closed, the city, and Fort Smith, and the state of Arkansas to rebuild the park and the amenities that we had and hopefully improve them."
Construction on the cabins is currently underway. The structures will be similar to the cabins at the old Lake Fort Smith State Park.
“We can hardly wait,” said park goer Ann Cantrell. “Probably be a waiting list for that one, but yeah, we're looking forward to it."
Gossage says it's about a 1.9 million dollar project. It’s funded by a 1/8 cent conservation tax passed in 1996.
"We're doing our best to make a place that you'll enjoy coming out and making memories," said Gossage.
The cabins will have different room options. Five will be two bedrooms while the other five will be one bedroom. There will be a handicap accessible cabin, and all will be furnished with a living room and dining area.
"They'll have satellite TV,” said Gossage. “They all have fireplaces and central heat and air."
Tucked away in the Ozark Mountains will be the cozy cabins for visitors to escape to any time of the year.
"We'll probably try to use the cabins,” said Raymond Cantrell. “We enjoy coming up here, getting out in nature, and it's a beautiful place to come."
Construction is expected to be finished and the cabins ready for guests this December.
Gossage says the rental fees will range from $125-$145 per night.