Combs Park

Combs Park, located in Fayetteville, Arkansas, is set to become the city's first true river access park designed for water recreation and nature appreciation. The park is situated along the West Fork of the White River, providing a unique opportunity for visitors to engage with the natural environment.

The park's development is part of a larger initiative to enhance public access to the river and promote outdoor activities. A key feature of the project involves the removal of the obsolete Pump Station Dam upstream, which will restore the river to its natural state. This restoration effort, led by the Watershed Conservation Resource Center, aims to improve the river's ecosystem and create a more dynamic water environment.

Combs Park will serve as a vital link in Fayetteville's expanding outdoor recreation network. It will be connected to the city's active transportation trail system, making it easily accessible for residents and visitors. The park's location, less than four miles from the Historic Downtown Square, positions it as a convenient destination for both urban dwellers and nature enthusiasts.

The park's design incorporates elements that cater to various outdoor activities while preserving the natural beauty of the area. Plans include the development of trails, river access points, and spaces for picnicking and relaxation. The project also involves the restoration of historic structures within the park, including a native-stone pump house and caretaker's cottage, which will be integrated into the new nature preserve.

Combs Park is partially funded by a Park Improvement Bond approved by Fayetteville residents in 2019, reflecting the community's commitment to enhancing public spaces and outdoor recreational opportunities. The park's development is being carried out in phases, with ongoing public input shaping its final form and features.