adventure in the great outdoors

What adventure will you discover in the Ouachita Mountains? Family Friendly Fun

Board Camp Crystal Mine

Dig your own crystals at the all natural Board Camp Crystal Mine! Everyone will find crystals to take home! We respect teh Earth and don’t use heavy equipment. We only dig by hand and will show you how! We are family and dog-friendly, mobility accessbile, and shady in the summer! Visit our Crystal Shop and relax at our Crystal Cottage with moutnain views! Also, experience the UnXplained Tour! Hear the story, see the evidence, then you decide! Please reserve your get-away at boardcampcrystalmine.com or call 479-243-0771.

Mountain Glory Station and the Glory Train

All aboard! It’s time for a rail trip around Queen Wilhelmina State Park. You’ll discover a miniature train and depot perched high atop Rich Mountain. The Glory Train chugs around two miles of track with stops along the way to capture the views along the southern vista. While you’re there, make plans to have some fun on the newly refurbished Rich Mountain Minigolf. Once you have worked up an appetite, stop by the Mountain Glory Station and enjoy their eats and sweets. 3897 Hwy 88. Mena. 479-437-3331

The Blue Zip Line & Farm

Fly like a bird and soar among the trees! The Blue Zip Line and Farm provides its guests with a thrilling adventure. Located on the Banks of the Irons Fork River, come experience a new way to view the incredible Ouachita Mountains. Set among 300 year old oak trees, The Blue is an excursion like no other. If you are looking for a unique gift idea or would like to arrange a group outing, the owners can help you plan your adventure. They are also autism friendly; hence the name The Blue. 142 Polk Road 185 in Mena. 479-216-8639

Bucket List Excursions

Cossatot River State Park

The Cossatot River flows through the Ouachita National Forest offering a beautiful, yet challenging course for kayakers and canoeists. Cossatot is roughly translated from an Indian word meaning “skull crusher” and the river has been called “the most challenging section of whitewater between the Smokies and the Rockies.” The Cossatot is 89 miles long, begins southeast of Mena, and is listed as a National Wild and Scenic River and an Arkansas Natural and Scenic River. When local rainfall increases the watershed, the river forms Cossatot Falls, a rocky canyon with a series of back-to-back class III-IV+ rapids that drop around 40 feet in 1/8 of a mile. With names such as Washing Machine, Whiplash, and Devil’s Hollow Falls, adventure and adrenaline are likely flow as fast as the river. Camping sites are located near the Cossatot Falls area, and at the nearby Brushy Creek Recreation area with four scenic trails, spanning nearly 20 miles, for hikers to enjoy. Cossatot River State Park Visitor’s Center is located at 1980 Hwy 278 W, in Wickes. 870-385-2201.

Queen Wilhelmina State Park

For views that go on for miles and miles, a trip to the Queen Wilhelmina State Park is a must. The park is located on Ark. 88 (Talimena National Scenic Byway) 13 miles west of Mena and encompasses 460 acres, featuring a campground with 41 campsites and a bathhouse. There are picnic areas, trails, and a seasonal miniature train and mini-golf course. The park offers daily, weekly, and monthly activities to participate in including park interpretive programs that highlight Rich Mountain’s unique fauna and flora. Park campsites, hiking trails and overlooks are just a short walk from the lodge. For more information or to make a reservation call 877- 879-2741 or 479-394-2863.

Wolf Pen Gap

Bring your off-road vehicles, mountain bikes, and backpacks and hit the trails. Discover what outdoor adventurers from across the nation return to again and again. From challenging trails to leisurely paths, you can pick your pace at Wolf Pen Gap. Explore the majestic mountains, lush valleys and discover something new at every turn. Immerse yourself in the Ouachita Forest, where beautiful flora and fauna happily greet you as you wind down the many shady paths. Beautiful and untamed, the winding rivers and hidden swimming holes filled with cool, clear, mountain water invite you to take a break away from it all. Whether it’s adventure or serenity you seek, Wolf Pen Gap has something for everyone.

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Arkansas summers are hot, and the best way to cool off is a trip to the nearest body of water. Locals know the best places, and are usually agreeable to share the location of their favorite spot or at the very least, their second favorite spot.

Bard Springs

Located next to a small scenic stream in a remote mountain setting, the Bard Springs Recreation Area offers five adirondake-type shelters for picnicking. A very small dam on the stream creates a pool of water that is popular with swimmers in the summertime. Once a small campground in the past, this area is now open for dayuse only. No electricity or water is available at the site, but a vault toilet is provided. Nearby Shady Lake offers camping opportunities. Mena-Oden Ranger District 479-394-2382.

Cossatot River State Park - Natural Area

The Cossatot River flows through the Ouachita National Forest offering a beautiful, yet challenging course for kayakers and canoeists as well as numerous sandbars and swimming holes for those who prefer to live life at a slower pace. When local rainfall increases the watershed, the river forms Cossatot Falls, a rocky canyon with a series of back-to-back class III-IV+ rapids that drop around 40 feet in 1/8 of a mile. With names such as Washing Machine, Whiplash, and Devil’s Hollow Falls, adventure and adrenaline are likely flow as fast as the river. The rest of the year, the river meanders lazily and is a welcome respite from the Arkansas heat. Camping sites are located near the Cossatot Falls area, and at the nearby Brushy Creek Recreation area with four scenic trails, spanning nearly 20 miles, for hikers to enjoy. Cossatot River State Park Visitor’s Center is located at 1980 Hwy 278 W, in Wickes. 870-385-2201.

Little Missouri Falls

Little Missouri Falls is a stair-step fall situated in a deep gorge that attracts those looking to explore, those looking to relax, and those in search of the perfect photo opportunity. A short hike on a paved trail is required to reach the falls, and is worth every step. As soon as one lays eyes on this gorgeous section of the Little Missouri River, they instantly know that they will return. Restrooms, an observation site, picnic tables, and barbecue grills are available. Caddo-Womble Ranger District 870-867- 2101

Mountain Fork River

The Upper Mountain Fork River offers 31.7 miles of canoeing or kayaking from near Hatfield, Arkansas to Broken Bow Lake in Oklahoma. This part of the river has Class I and II rapids, clear water, fishing for Smallmouth bass and other species, and excellent scenery with pine forests covering the hills and bluffs along the river’s course. Water levels in the river are generally adequate for boating year-round.

Ouachita River

The Ouachita is a river of diverse beauty. It begins as a small mountain stream at Eagleton (Polk County) and flows eastward approximately 120 miles. It winds through lush mountain valleys, steadily building as it flows between huge boulders beneath mountain bluffs. The Ouachita is noted for its great fishing, especially bass, bream, and white perch. Wildlife is prolific along the banks of the river. Mena-Oden Ranger District 479-394-2382.

Shady Lake

Shady Lake is a small but scenic 25-acre secluded lake in the southern Ouachita National Forest southeast of Mena. This area and the lake were developed by the CCC in the 1930s. The Shady Lake Trail traverses Saline Creek and passes the historic Shady Lake Dam. The campground offers 64 sites for campers, both tent and RV/ trailer. Twenty of the sites offer water and electric hookups, with most of those being able to accomodate Rvs up to 30 feet long. The rest of the campsites, 44 of them, are primitive tent camping sites, offering no hookups. The campground (in-season) offers showers and flush toilets, and a dump station as well. Mena-Oden Ranger District 479-394-2382.

“No man ever steps in the same river twice, for it’s not the same river and he is not the same man.” - Heraclitus

Rivers D Lakes

Lake Wilhelmina

Lake Wilhelmina is an Arkansas Game and Fish Commission lake approximately 200 surface acres in size, constructed in 1958. The lake has a reputation for excellent bluegill and redear fishing. The commission maintains a concrete boat ramp on the southeast side of the lake. Primitive camping areas are located along the eastern side of the lake. An accessible wooden fishing pier is located on the southwest side of the lake. Polk Road 125, Mena.

Earthquake Ridge - 4.4 miles Fourche Mountain Trail - 26 miles Ouachita National Recreational Trail (IMBA EPIC) Big Brushy Complex - 15.5 Miles Rich Mountain Trail - 8 miles Shady Lake Trail - 3.5 miles Wolf Pen Gap - 42 miles

Backroads Trails D

We are known for our trails. Wolfpen Gap was the first of its kind. Ask our regulars why they keep coming back, AND YOU’LL LIKELY HEAR, “THE MOUNTAINS, THE RIVERS, AND THE ROADS.”

Wolf Pen Gap

Let the journey begin! Bring your friends, family, ATV’s, UTV’s, and ORV’s and let’s go exploring. It’s time to hit the trails of the Wolf Pen Gap Trail System and see what incredible destinations we can discover. Visitors travel to the trails, from across the nation, to ride the diverse terrain and more than 40 miles of looping, connected trails. With its soaring mountain vistas and numerous creeks and rivers, this is the perfect spot for a getaway. Make sure to get that perfect photo when you visit the two footed oak, the abandoned mine shaft and Little Missouri Falls. If it’s luxurious cabins or primitive camping you seek, you’re sure to find the perfect accommodations. From beginner to expert, for the laid back and the thrill seeker, the Wolf Pen Gap Trail System offers something for everyone. So, whether it’s a day, weekend, week, or longer, make plans to travel off the beaten path.

Mountain Biking

Offering a variety of terrain, many trail options and natural beauty around every bend, Western Arkansas is quickly becoming a preferred destination for mountain biking. Bring your bike, hit the many trails, and feel the exhilaration and excitement of this amazing area. The trails around Mena offer a wide variety of challenges to accommodate any skill level. Whatever route you choose, incredible woodlands, peaceful streams, spectacular waterfalls, and refreshing mountain air are waiting to greet you.

Hiking and Backpacking

If rugged, remote, and beautiful is your definition of a good time, the mountains of the Mena/Polk County area are the destination for you. Whether a novice or experienced hiker, the trails of the Ouachita Mountains introduce those who enter to an incredible adventure. If a day hike is on your agenda, Earthquake Ridge, Orchard Trail, and Shady Lake Trail offer easy to moderate trails with wonderful views. If you are traveling along the Talimena Scenic Drive and want to stretch your legs for a bit, Queen Wilhelmina State Park invites you to stop and explore. Lovers Leap, Reservoir, and Spring Trails can all be accessed from the park and provide easy to strenuous treks. For those interested in a longer, more challenging journey, venture out to the Wolf Pen Gap Trail System. While some trails are easy, those wishing for a more difficult challenge can find it here. Or set your sights on the Ouachita National Recreation Trail. This is the longest trail in the Ouachita National Forest and spans 192 miles across its entire length. With panoramic views and elevations reaching 2,600 feet, beauty and adventure await you along this impressive trail. When it’s time for a solo trek or family outing, visit the mountains, rivers, and trails around Mena to unplug and reconnect with the outdoors.

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Her Majesty Awaits

elevation 2681 ft

387 7 Highway 88 W | Mena, Arkansas 71953 | 479 ∙ 394 ∙ 2863

Queen Wilhelmina State Park

Let’s create an adventure where the winding roads leave us with anticipation of what’s around the corner. A place where the breathtaking, panoramic views seem to go on forever and cotton candy sunsets sweeten the skies. You have an audience with the majestic Queen atop her beautiful, mountaintop setting at Queen Wilhelmina State Park. So, put the convertible top down or the kickstand up and let the adventure begin.

Queen Wilhelmina State Park is located on the Talimena Scenic Drive, northwest of Mena, Arkansas, on Rich Mountain. Rich Mountain is the second highest peak in Arkansas, at 2,681 feet. The jewel in the crown, of the park, is the Queen Wilhelmina Lodge. The only open lodge on the 235 mile Ouachita Trail, the original “Castle in the Sky” was built in 1898 and has graced this same location since. The original lodge was built by the Kansas City, Pittsburg and Gulf Railroad to house its passengers. As many of the railroad’s investors were Dutch, the lodge was named to honor Queen Wilhelmina of the Netherlands, who was to be crowned in September 1898. continued... PHOTOGRAPHS PROVIDED BY ARKANSAS DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND TOURISM