Ouachita National Forest Guide
Ouachita National Forest: Nature's Playground Guide
Escape the everyday and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Ouachita National Forest, a sprawling wilderness encompassing over 1.8 million acres across Arkansas and Oklahoma. This vast forest offers a diverse landscape of rolling mountains, dense forests, sparkling lakes, and winding rivers, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're seeking a challenging hike, a peaceful camping trip, or a scenic drive, the Ouachita National Forest has something to captivate your senses. Established in 1907, the Ouachita National Forest is the oldest national forest in the Southern United States. Its history is intertwined with the region's logging industry, which played a significant role in the area's development. Today, the forest is managed for multiple uses, including timber production, recreation, wildlife habitat, and watershed protection. The forest's diverse ecosystem supports a wide variety of plant and animal life, including black bears, white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and numerous bird species. The Ouachita National Forest offers a plethora of activities for visitors. Hiking is a popular option, with trails ranging from easy nature walks to challenging climbs. Camping is available at numerous campgrounds throughout the forest, offering a chance to sleep under the stars. Fishing and boating are popular on the forest's lakes and rivers. Scenic drives along the Talimena National Scenic Byway offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the beauty of this natural wonderland!
Transportation
The Ouachita National Forest surrounds Mena, making it easily accessible from various points. The Talimena National Scenic Byway (Highway 88) provides access to many scenic overlooks and trailheads. To reach the byway from Mena, take US-71 North to AR-88 East. The byway stretches east and west along the crest of the Ouachita Mountains. Forest Service roads also provide access to various parts of the forest, but be sure to check road conditions before venturing out, especially after rain.