Chess Clubs in Paragould, Arkansas. The list of addresses.
Chess Clubs in Paragould, AR and Surrounding Areas
Chess players in Paragould, Arkansas, and nearby Northeast Arkansas communities have access to several organized chess opportunities. While the local chess scene remains modest, players can find regular meetups and competitive events within reasonable driving distance.
1. Paragould Chess Club
Address: Greene County Library, 120 N 12th St, Paragould, AR 72450
Description: Paragould’s primary chess organization meets every Wednesday evening from 5:30-8:00 PM in the library meeting room. This casual group welcomes players of all skill levels and provides:
Tournament-style chess sets and clocks
Beginner instruction on first Wednesdays
Occasional local tournaments
The club averages 8-12 players per meeting, with a mix of adults and scholastic players.
2. Jonesboro Chess Society
Address: Craighead County Jonesboro Public Library, 315 W Oak Ave, Jonesboro, AR 72401 (30-minute drive)
Description: Northeast Arkansas’ most active chess club meets every Tuesday and Thursday evening. The club offers:
Weekly rated games
Monthly tournaments
Regular visits from regional masters
This US Chess Federation affiliate typically draws 15-20 players per session.
3. Arkansas State University Chess Club
Address: ASU Student Union, 101 N Caraway Rd, Jonesboro, AR 72401 (30-minute drive)
Description: Open to both students and community members, this collegiate chess program meets weekly during academic terms. Activities include:
Intercollegiate match preparation
Game analysis sessions
Campus chess tournaments
4. Pocahontas Chess Group
Address: Randolph County Library, 121 W Everett St, Pocahontas, AR 72455 (45-minute drive)
Description: This monthly chess gathering serves players from Randolph County and surrounding areas. The casual atmosphere focuses on:
Recreational play
Chess education
Community building
5. Walnut Ridge Chess Club
Address: Lawrence County Library, 115 W Main St, Walnut Ridge, AR 72476 (40-minute drive)
Description: A newer addition to the region’s chess scene, this bi-weekly meetup attracts players from Lawrence County. The club emphasizes:
Family-friendly chess
Beginner development
Local tournament preparation
Tournament Play
Regional events include:
Northeast Arkansas Open (Jonesboro, March)
Paragould Fall Classic (October)
ASU Collegiate Championship (November)
Youth Chess Opportunities
Several area schools offer programs:
Paragould High School Chess Club
Jonesboro Public Schools Chess Initiative
ASU Youth Chess Camp (Summer)
Growing Chess in Northeast Arkansas
Local players can help expand chess by:
Volunteering as school chess mentors
Organizing library chess workshops
Developing senior chess programs
Conclusion
While Paragould’s chess community remains small, quality playing opportunities exist at the Greene County Library and nearby Jonesboro clubs. The Jonesboro Chess Society provides the strongest competitive environment in the region, while Paragould’s club offers convenient local play.
With continued development of youth programs and community engagement, Paragould has potential to grow its chess presence. The combination of existing clubs and scholastic initiatives creates opportunities for players at all levels to enjoy the game while connecting with Northeast Arkansas’ chess community.
