Pickleball Courts Near Fort Smith AR: Where to Play in the River Valley

Are you looking for a fun way to stay active in Fort Smith, Arkansas? Pickleball might be just the thing for you. This fast-growing sport combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, making it a hit with people of all ages.

Fort Smith has several places where you can play pickleball. You can find both indoor and outdoor courts in the city, some with lights for night games. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, there’s a court that will suit your needs.

Let’s take a look at some of the best pickleball spots in Fort Smith.

1) Creekmore Park – A spacious spot for pickleball enthusiasts.

Looking for a great place to play pickleball in Fort Smith? You’ll want to check out Creekmore Park. This popular spot offers plenty of space for pickleball fans to enjoy their favorite sport.

Creekmore Park is a well-known recreational area in Fort Smith. It’s home to various amenities, including tennis courts that can be used for pickleball.

You’ll find the park at 3301 S M St in Fort Smith. It’s easy to get to and has lots of parking available. The park is open from 6 AM to 11 PM, giving you plenty of time to fit in a game.

While the park doesn’t have dedicated pickleball courts, you can bring your own net and set up on the tennis courts. The hard surface is perfect for a good game of pickleball.

Remember to bring your own equipment when you visit. You might want to call ahead to check court availability, especially during busy times.

2) Ben Geren Regional Park – Plenty of pickleball courts available.

If you’re looking for a great place to play pickleball near Fort Smith, check out Ben Geren Regional Park. This park is stepping up its game when it comes to pickleball facilities.

You’ll be excited to hear that eight new pickleball courts are coming to Ben Geren Park. Sebastian County approved over $500,000 to build these courts, showing their commitment to the sport.

The new courts will be located at the site of a former go-kart track in the park. This means you’ll have plenty of space to play and enjoy the game.

When you visit Ben Geren Park, you’ll find it at 7200 South Zero Street in Fort Smith. The park is open daily until dusk, giving you lots of time to get your pickleball fix.

Remember to bring your own equipment, as the park may not provide paddles or balls. With these new courts, you’ll have more opportunities to play and improve your pickleball skills right here in Fort Smith.

3) Fort Smith Athletic Club – Indoor courts to play rain or shine

Want to play pickleball no matter the weather? Fort Smith Athletic Club has you covered. The club offers 10 indoor pickleball courts that are climate-controlled.

You can enjoy a game any time without worrying about rain, heat, or cold. The indoor courts are available for a small fee of $12 per court.

The Hangout Fitness and Sports, which is part of the Fort Smith Athletic Club, provides these great indoor facilities. You’ll find them at 5400 Gary St in Fort Smith.

Playing indoors means you get lights, restrooms, and water nearby. It’s a comfortable setup for your pickleball matches.

The club has set hours for pickleball play. You can hit the courts Monday through Thursday from 6:30 to 8:30 PM, and on Fridays starting at 6:30 PM.

Remember to call ahead and reserve your court. This ensures you’ll have a spot to play when you arrive.

4) Riverfront Pavilion – Great views and great courts

Looking for a pickleball spot with a view? Check out the Riverfront Pavilion in Fort Smith. This place has got it all – awesome courts and killer scenery.

You’ll find the Riverfront Pavilion at 100 N B St. It’s right by the Arkansas River, so you can enjoy some sweet water views while you play.

The courts here are top-notch. You’ll have plenty of space to show off your skills and have a great time with friends.

After your game, take a stroll along the river. It’s a perfect way to cool down and soak in the scenery.

Remember to bring your own gear. The pavilion is an open space, so you’ll need to set up your net and bring paddles and balls.

Want to make a day of it? Pack a picnic. There are spots nearby where you can relax and refuel after your match.

5) Chaffee Crossing Park – Pickleball fun with a community vibe

If you’re looking for a great place to play pickleball near Fort Smith, check out Chaffee Crossing Pickleball Complex. This awesome spot has 8 outdoor courts for you to enjoy.

The best part? It’s free to play! You can show up anytime and get your game on without worrying about fees. The courts have permanent lines and nets, so everything’s set up and ready for you.

You’ll love the friendly atmosphere here. It’s a great place to meet other pickleball fans and make new friends. The complex is perfect for both casual games and more competitive matches.

Want to play at night? No problem! The courts are lit, so you can keep the fun going after dark. It’s a great way to beat the Arkansas heat in the summer months.

If you’re planning a big event, the complex is spacious enough for tournaments. Just reach out to Fort Smith Parks & Recreation to set it up.

Understanding Pickleball Court Features

Pickleball courts have specific features that make the game unique and enjoyable. You’ll find that court dimensions, markings, and surface types play a big role in how the game is played.

Court Dimensions and Markings

A pickleball court is smaller than a tennis court. It measures 20 feet wide and 44 feet long. The net is 36 inches high at the sidelines and 34 inches high in the center.

You’ll see a non-volley zone, often called the “kitchen,” extending 7 feet from the net on each side. This area has special rules about when you can enter it.

The service courts are rectangular areas on each side of the center line. They extend from the kitchen line to the baseline.

Lines on the court are usually 2 inches wide and a different color than the playing surface. This helps you see them clearly during play.

Choosing the Right Surface

Pickleball can be played on various surfaces. Each type affects how the ball bounces and how you move on the court.

Hard courts are common for outdoor play. They offer a consistent bounce and good traction. Concrete and asphalt are popular choices.

Indoor courts often use wood or special synthetic materials. These surfaces are easier on your joints and provide a different playing experience.

Some courts have textured surfaces to improve grip. This is helpful in wet conditions or for players who want extra traction.

When choosing a court, think about the weather, your playing style, and your comfort. Some players prefer the speed of hard courts, while others like the cushioning of softer surfaces.

Benefits of Playing Pickleball

Playing pickleball can be a blast! It’s a fun way to get moving and stay active. You’ll find it easier on your joints than some other sports, making it great for all ages.

Pickleball helps you burn calories and improve your balance. It’s also good for your heart health. You’ll get a nice workout without feeling like you’re exercising too hard.

The social aspect is awesome too. You’ll meet new people and make friends on the court. It’s a great way to spend time with family or buddies.

Your hand-eye coordination will get better as you play more. You’ll also sharpen your reflexes and strategic thinking skills.

Pickleball is easy to learn but challenging to master. This keeps it exciting as you improve your game over time.

Here are some quick benefits:

• Low-impact exercise
• Improves balance and agility
• Boosts mood and reduces stress
• Enhances social connections
• Suitable for all skill levels

You don’t need fancy equipment to start. Just grab a paddle, find a court, and you’re ready to go!