Mena / Ouachita National Forest KOA Journey Blog
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KOA Journey campgrounds offer the perfect oasis after a day on the road. Whether it’s along the way or a quick getaway, they’ve got you covered. Located near the highways and byways of North America with long Pull-thru RV Sites, they deliver convenience to the traveling camper. Pull in, ease back and take a load off.
KOA Journey campgrounds offer the perfect oasis after a day on the road. Whether it’s along the way or a quick getaway, they’ve got you covered. Located near the highways and byways of North America with long Pull-thru RV Sites, they deliver convenience to the traveling camper. Pull in, ease back and take a load off.
If driving North on Highway 71: 5 miles North of Hatfield. If driving South on 71: 6 miles south of Mena
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Nestled in the beautiful Ouachita Mountains, the small mountain town of Mena is one of the best-kept outdoor recreation secrets in the South. Surrounded by the vast Ouachita National Forest, the area offers endless opportunities for adventure, scenic drives, and relaxing time in nature.
Whether you're visiting to ride ATV trails, hike scenic ridges, or simply unwind in the mountains, there’s something here for everyone.
Here are 15 of the best things to do near Mena, Arkansas.
One of the biggest attractions in the region is the famous Wolf Pen Gap Trail System. This popular off-road trail network features over 40 miles of interconnected ATV and UTV trails winding through forests, mountains, and scenic overlooks.
Riders travel from across the country to experience these trails, which offer everything from beginner-friendly routes to more challenging terrain.
The breathtaking Talimena Scenic Drive is considered one of the most beautiful drives in America. This 54-mile mountain road stretches along the crest of the Ouachita Mountains, connecting Arkansas and Oklahoma.
Expect sweeping mountain vistas, wildlife sightings, and unforgettable sunsets. In the fall, it becomes one of the top fall foliage drives in the country.
Located high atop Rich Mountain, Queen Wilhelmina State Park is often called the “Castle in the Clouds.”
Visitors can enjoy:
Scenic overlooks
Hiking trails
A historic lodge and restaurant
Picnic areas
Incredible mountain views
It’s a must-see stop while exploring the Ouachita Mountains.
With over 1.8 million acres of wilderness, the Ouachita National Forest offers endless outdoor opportunities.
Activities include:
Hiking
Mountain biking
Wildlife viewing
Camping
Scenic photography
Fishing in quiet lakes and streams
The forest’s unique east–west ridgelines create long panoramic views unlike any other mountain range in the United States.
Adventure seekers can hike to the historic Rich Mountain Fire Tower, one of the tallest peaks in Arkansas. The trail rewards hikers with spectacular views across the Ouachita Mountains.
It’s a favorite spot for photographers and sunset watchers.
Right in the center of Mena sits the charming Janssen Park.
This historic park features beautiful landscaping, a peaceful walking path, and several historic monuments that reflect the rich history of the area.
Located near Queen Wilhelmina State Park, Lake Wilhelmina offers a quiet and scenic place to fish, paddle, or simply relax beside the water.
At 2,681 feet, Rich Mountain is the second-highest peak in Arkansas. The sunsets from the mountain ridges are legendary and often paint the sky with deep reds and purples over endless rolling hills.
The rugged terrain of the Ouachita Mountains provides incredible terrain for mountain biking. Riders can explore miles of forest service roads and backcountry trails.
The historic downtown area of Mena features local shops, restaurants, and small-town charm that make it a fun stop after a day exploring the mountains.
During autumn, the Ouachita Mountains transform into a spectacular display of red, orange, and gold. The region becomes a popular fall foliage destination for travelers across the South.
Nature lovers will often see deer, wild turkey, hawks, and countless bird species throughout the Ouachita National Forest.
Early mornings and evenings are the best times for wildlife viewing.
Some of the best views in the Ouachitas are found along quiet forest service roads that wind deep into the mountains. These backroads offer peaceful drives and access to remote hiking spots.
With very little light pollution, the mountains around Mena offer incredible night skies filled with stars. Sitting around a campfire while watching the Milky Way stretch across the sky is an unforgettable experience.
The best way to experience everything the region offers is by camping in the Ouachitas. Staying at the Mena KOA Journey places visitors right in the middle of all the adventure while providing a comfortable basecamp for exploring the area.
Campers can enjoy relaxing evenings, beautiful mountain views, and easy access to ATV trails, scenic drives, and hiking.
From ATV riding and scenic mountain drives to hiking, fishing, and relaxing under starry skies, the area around Mena is truly an outdoor paradise.
Whether you're visiting for a weekend getaway or planning a longer camping trip, the beauty and adventure of the Ouachita Mountains will keep you coming back again and again.
That doesn't mean this area has to always be empty. When you start reviewing camping options, your history will display here to help compare sites and find the best stay. You will be able to share your stay information with friends or family and save it for a later time if you have a KOA Account.
Make checkout easy by booking all your reservations at once. Add your sites from different campgrounds into your shopping cart* and then choose checkout.
