Dispersed camping options around Mena provide alternatives to developed campgrounds. The Ouachita Mountains range from 1,000 to 2,600 feet in elevation with temperature fluctuations of 20-30 degrees between valleys and ridges. Free camping sites require self-sufficiency with most located along forest service roads throughout Ouachita National Forest.
What to do
Hiking on mountain trails: Queen Wilhelmina State Park connects to numerous trails including the Ouachita Trail system. "The Ozark Highland Trail does pass close by and the Lover's Leap trail is pleasant with some amazing views," notes one camper. The Lover's Leap trail is described as "one mile and moderate with a nice lookout."
Explore waterways: Cossatot River State Park offers unique water features. "The water is crystal clear and you can watch fish swim by. The surrounding foliage is beautiful," shares a visitor who explored the river boulders, noting this activity "is not for the faint of heart or people avoiding physical activity."
ATV adventures: Wolfpen ATV Campground serves as headquarters for riders exploring the Wolf Pen Gap trail system. "If you coming to Wolf Pen Gap to ride this is your spot," confirms a reviewer. Some campers combine activities, with one mentioning, "We went on to Mena for a day and rented UTVs at Wolf Pen Gap."
What campers like
Mountain-top camping: Queen Wilhelmina State Park sits atop Rich Mountain with notable temperature differences from nearby valleys. A summer visitor noted the "cool summer breeze" and "beautiful vistas everywhere," describing it as "just a beautiful spot to sit back and enjoy." Another camper mentioned the "nice breeze" but noted there "just wasn't a lot to do on top of the mountain."
Creek-side accommodations: Shady Lake Campground offers sites near running water. "Slept right above a babbling creek and heard peaceful water flowing all night," one camper shared. Another visitor with children mentioned, "We spent 3 nights in a campground on loop C and loved it. 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."
Scenic driving routes: Winding Stair Campground provides access to the Talimena Scenic Byway. "Driving from Mena to Talihina along this stretch of highway is a treat when it comes to the spectacular views," writes one visitor, adding that "stopping at places like this campground even further explain just how amazing this part of Oklahoma really is."
What you should know
Limited tent options: The area has more RV-friendly sites than tent-specific areas. At Queen Wilhelmina State Park, one camper noted, "The campground is small with limited pads. Each site is close to the next and are generally occupied with RVs or camper trailers." Another described it as "incredibly crowded to stay in a tent."
Cell service variability: Coverage differs significantly between campgrounds. At Shady Lake Campground, visitors report "no cell service" and advise to "decide whether that is a good thing or not." In contrast, Queen Wilhelmina State Park has "ample cell phone service, WiFi is nearby."
Weather preparation: Mountain locations experience rapid weather changes. One visitor at Winding Stair mentioned that "the high temp for the weekend was about 56 and the place was packed solid," highlighting cooler temperatures even during popular periods.
Seasonal facility limitations: Many campgrounds have seasonal restrictions. A Winding Stair visitor reported finding it "closed until May 2025" without explanation, even though they had "camped here in winter several times before."
Tips for camping with families
Plan for varied terrain: Cossatot Falls Campsites offers unique river play areas but requires preparation. "Our children enjoyed climbing on the rocks and splashing in the river," reports one parent. Another notes the large camping pads: "The tent pads were huge and the waterfall area was beautiful."
Check for kid-friendly amenities: Some parks have recreational facilities beyond camping. Queen Wilhelmina includes "a mini golf course, ice cream shop and train ride" though one visitor noted these are "only open from Memorial Day to Labor Day." The park also "has a playground and an Old Steam Train to explore."
Consider noise factors: Dog friendly campgrounds near Mena have varying noise levels. At Shady Lake, a visitor warned about getting "a little close to available camping near the creek" but also mentioned the campground "is simple and quiet." Another camper appreciated that it "wasn't overcrowded."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: CMA Iron Mountain Cabins and Campground accommodates bigger vehicles. "Plenty of room for big rigs," noted one RVer. Another mentioned, "I drive truck, always have a hard time getting in/out of places with a semi" but found this campground accessible.
Hookup availability: Many pet-friendly campsites near Mena offer varied hookups. At Shadow Mountain Campground, "sewer hook ups on almost every site" is a notable feature. For sites without full hookups, like Winding Stair, campers should note that there's "no electric or water hookups at the sites (there is community water)."
After-hours arrival planning: Some campgrounds offer flexible check-in. CMA Iron Mountain provides an "after hours checkin still by the honor system," while Winding Stair uses a "pay station as you come in" where "the ranger will come around in the morning some time and check your stubs."
