Welcomed New Public Toilet and Showers Open at Smith Park

It has been said and I agree, Alex Smith Park is a hidden gem in Miller County, Arkansas. Texarkana Scout Troop 3 has used it for many years for primitive camping experiences and earning merit badges. There are several Eagle Scout projects around the park as well, two of which I helped build myself. Smith Park has always been a very handy place to get away without having to drive too far away. In all those years there has only been one complaint that I can think of with Smith Park, "outhouse."

That's right, an outhouse was the only bathroom facility available for number 2 unless you were ok with digging a hole. At least that little slice of Heaven was a "hole with walls" to keep the chill off. But it wasn't much better than just that. Pretty nasty really.

Photo by Matias Caceres on Unsplash

As of today, the clouds have parted, the trumpets have sounded and the Angels are singing, for on this day, the public bathrooms and showers are officially open.

Ta-Dah!

Smith Park Bathroom stalls - Miller County AR FB

Stalls and a urinal...

Smith Park Bathroom changing table - Miller County AR FB

A changing table...

Smith Park Bathroom shower - Miller County AR FB

Working showers...

Smith Park Bathroom toilet - Miller County AR FB

Toilet...

Smith Park Bathroom sink - Miller County AR FB

And a sink with a mirror?

Hallelujah!

Smith Park Outhouse - Google Maps

Catching Up

They have actually done a ton of work on the park in recent years, perusing their Facebook Page I am impressed. For instance, they have installed a flower box around the entrance sign. It looks very nice.

Alex Smith Park Sign upgrade 2021 - Miller County FB

Smith Park - boat ramp - Wes Spicher

Living Up To The Name

Alex Smith Park is now the hidden gem it was meant to be, complete with a camping area, a nice pavilion and new picnic tables, playgrounds, easy access fishing area, boat ramp, gun range, and now a bathroom/shower they can really be proud of.

Smith Park - gun range - Wes Spicher

Smith Park - road to range - Wes Spicher

If you wish to use the gun range by the way, you have to pay a yearly fee at the Miller County Sheriff's Office. $10 for Miller County residents, $20 for all others. Click here for more details about the Gun Range.

Smith Park - play ground - Wes Spicher

It's been a while since I've been down to Alex Smith Park, but I'm honestly looking forward to going back.

Alex Smith Park - Wes Spicher

If you're interested in reserving the pavilion or have questions about special events at Alex Smith Park, please call Miller County Judge Cathy Harrison's Office at (870)774-1301.

Great job to all who have put in the work to make Smith Park a better place to be.

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