Dispersed camping near Mena, Arkansas offers access to Ouachita National Forest land with campsites along forest service roads like Turner Creek Road. The region sits at elevations ranging from 600 to 2,700 feet with temperature variations of 10-15°F between valleys and mountaintops. Most primitive camping areas require high-clearance vehicles due to unimproved forest roads that can become muddy and rutted after rainfall.
What to do
Hiking accessible trails: Campers at Queen Wilhelmina State Park can access several trails including Lover's Leap, a one-mile moderate trail with lookout points. "We hiked the Lover's Leap trail which was one mile and moderate with a nice lookout," one visitor noted. The Ouachita Trail also passes nearby for longer hikes.
River exploration: Cossatot Falls Campsites offers opportunities for boulder hopping and water activities. "It's not for the faint of heart or people avoiding physical activity because trekking the huge river boulders is not easy. But the beauty is worth it. The water is crystal clear and you can watch fish swim by," explains a camper who visited in 2021.
Creek adventures: At Shady Lake Campground, families can explore the creek that runs alongside most campsites. "There is a picturesque babbling creek that runs by most of the campsites, and we could have spent at least a couple days just exploring up and down the creek," writes a visitor with four children under 12.
What campers like
Peaceful settings: Many campers appreciate the solitude available at more remote sites. "The times I have been there hasn't been very many other campers in the area. I went with my in-laws, about 20 of us all together, and we pretty much had the whole place to ourselves," reports one Shady Lake visitor.
Wildlife viewing: The forests around Mena provide habitat for diverse wildlife. "We spotted a bald eagle at one stop," notes a camper who stayed at Queen Wilhelmina State Park, highlighting the birdwatching opportunities on the drive up the mountain.
Multiple water features: Pigeon Creek Dispersed camping area showcases the natural water features of the region. "You're surrounded by trees, moss and running blue mountain spring water. The river and creek merging was so beautiful!" writes a visitor, though they caution that previous campers sometimes leave trash.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Communication becomes difficult in many camping areas around Mena. One visitor to Shady Lake notes, "No cell service. You can decide whether that is a good thing or not. If you're really desperate, you can drive 5 mins down the road and get a signal."
Variable campsite quality: Developed campgrounds vary significantly in layout and privacy. At Queen Wilhelmina, a reviewer explains, "The campground is small with limited pads. I would suggest that this campground is most appropriate for the camper who prefers a more modern feel."
Seasonal considerations: Weather patterns affect camping experiences year-round. Spring brings higher water levels on the Cossatot River, with one hiker noting, "If you go right after some heavy rain, all the falls along the trail will be flowing at full blast!" Winter camping remains possible but requires additional preparation for potentially freezing temperatures.
Tips for camping with families
Spacious tent sites: CMA Iron Mountain Cabins and Campground offers convenient facilities for families. "Bathrooms and showers are spotless. The staff is extremely kind and helpful," reports a motorcyclist who tent camped there. The campground's central pavilion provides gathering space.
Swimming options: Shady Lake provides swimming opportunities with minimal facilities. "Lake swimming is super simple but we enjoyed it. There's a dock a little way out from the shore to swim to and jump off of. The bottom is covered with leaves, but hey, it's a lake," shares a parent with four boys.
Rental options: Some families prefer cabin rentals for more comfort. "We rented a bunk cabin for the USCA rally and I loved it. Price was right, accommodations perfect," writes a visitor to CMA Iron Mountain, though they caution about possible allergic reactions to cedar or pine inside the cabins.
Tips from RVers
RV site spacing: KOA Mena/Ouachita National Forest Journey offers good access for larger rigs. "Very nice staff and close to Mena and Ouachita national park. Sewer hook ups on almost every site and a lot of trees and well shaded area, but little tight place and not well leveled," advises one RVer who found the staff helpful despite some site limitations.
Site selection strategy: At Queen Wilhelmina State Park, RV sites have different orientations. "Spots 1-35 back up to the forest. Higher numbers back up to an open field," notes a camper, adding that "the spots are paved and all seemed pretty level."
Road conditions: Access roads to some of the best places to camp near Mena, Arkansas require caution. Turner Creek Road camping areas and forest service roads can be challenging after rain. "The road in was a little bumpy take it slow and you'll be fine," advises a Pigeon Creek camper, while others report some dispersed sites require high-clearance vehicles.
