Tent campsites near Mena, Arkansas range from primitive backcountry sites to accessible camping areas with basic amenities. The Ouachita Mountains surrounding Mena have elevations between 600-2,600 feet, creating diverse microclimates for campers. Summer temperatures typically reach 90°F with high humidity, while winter overnight temperatures can drop below freezing.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Long Creek Campsite on the Eagle Rock Loop, campers can catch multiple species within walking distance of their site. One visitor reported, "Perhaps 100 feet up river from our campsite I found a nice fishing hole and caught and released 7 trout and 1 sunfish within about 1 hour."
Swimming and boulder exploration: The crystal clear water at Cossatot Falls Campsites provides natural swimming areas. A camper notes, "It's not for the faint or 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."
Hiking and backpacking: The Eagle Rock Loop trail system offers challenging terrain for hikers staying at primitive sites. A visitor to Viles Branch Creek Primitive Campsite shared, "On your hike into this site you will be rewarded with beautiful scenery as you walk through majestic forests of oak, pine, maple and pecan trees. You will hike along the Viles Branch Creek and need to cross the creek various times."
What campers like
Secluded swimming spots: Near Pigeon Creek Dispersed camping area, visitors appreciate the natural water features. One camper stated, "You're surrounded by trees, moss and running blue mountain spring water. What's not to love? The terrain is rocky so use a thick mat or hammock but you will love it."
Spacious tent pads: The tent sites at Cossatot Falls Campsites offer unusually large camping spaces. According to a visitor, "We typically don't camp in regular campgrounds, we prefer more separation. We also have a large 20' tent that makes it difficult to fit into regular square pad tent sites. These pads were huge and fit our tent."
Wildlife viewing: Primitive tent camping areas near Mena provide opportunities to hear and see local wildlife. A camper at Sandbar Area Campsites mentioned, "You can hear the Owls and Coyotes at night. I highly recommend this camping spot if you want to be in the thick woods but accessible by car."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many tent camping areas require driving on rough forest roads. A visitor to Cossatot Falls warns, "Wish I could say the same thing about the gravel logging road in! O.o OH MY LORT!! It will test your suspension!!"
Limited amenities: Most primitive tent campsites near Mena require self-sufficiency. A camper at Albert Pike Recreation Area advised, "Just be careful not to go when rain is expected, because it can be very dangerous. And pack your trash out!"
Weather risks: Flash flooding poses a serious threat in this region. A visitor to Shirley Creek noted, "We camped anyways because we felt comfortable there was no flood risk, which is why it was closed."
Cash only: Several camping areas don't accept electronic payment. At Cossatot Falls, "There are 6 large, improved sites which are first come first serve cash pay only."
Tips for camping with families
Best site locations: Families should consider site placement when camping at Sandbar Area Campsites. One camper observed, "We stayed at #20 with a short walk from the parking area but a little bit too close to #21, 18 and 19 seem to be the ones with more privacy."
Kid-friendly water features: Several campsites offer accessible water play areas for children. At Cossatot Falls, a family reported, "Our children enjoyed climbing on the rocks and splashing in the river. The park rangers were very nice and informative."
Insect protection: Prepare for significant insect activity, especially with children. A visitor to Straight Creek suggested, "During the spring and summer the insects can be intense. I advise treating clothing and gear with permethrin to prevent ticks and pacaridin for other insects."
Tips for RVers
Limited RV options: Most camping near Mena is tent-focused with few RV amenities. At Straight Creek Campsite, visitors noted it's "a primitive dispersed campsite, but the ground has been cleared."
Generator restrictions: Several campsites prohibit or restrict generator use. A visitor to Cossatot Falls mentioned, "They did allow generators which is unfortunate because the river is so close. Part of what we love about camping is being in nature and hearing the sounds around us."
Advance planning required: RVers should check road conditions before arrival. A recent visitor to Pigeon Creek reported, "We drove slowly back and forth along the road exactly where the coordinates lead us to but there is no vehicle access to the forest there. It's completely overgrown."
