The Ouachita National Forest covers 1.8 million acres in central Arkansas and southeastern Oklahoma. Headquartered in Hot Springs, Arkansas, the forest is managed for multiple uses, including timber and wood production, watershed protection and improvement, habitat for wildlife and fish species (including threatened and endangered ones), wilderness area management, minerals leasing, and outdoor recreation.  Enjoy camping, hiking, biking, scenic driving, trail riding, water recreation, fishing, hunting, and more!

Explore our information on-line. Discover the wonderful scenery and recreational opportunities we have to offer.

Recent News

• Hochatown WUI Project Environmental Assessment Released Soon

  Release Date: Aug 16, 2019  

• Cedar Lake Recreation Area Closed For Improvements Sept 9 - Jan 31, 2020

  Release Date: Aug 12, 2019  

Features

Ozark-Ouachita Resource Advisory Committee (RAC) Meeting

On August 29, 2019, the Ozark-Ouachita Resource Advisory Committee (RAC) will be meeting to review Title II proposals at the Ozark-St. Francis National Forests Supervisor’s Office, 605 West Main, Russellville AR 72801. The committee is authorized under the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act and operates in compliance with the Federal Advisory Committee Act.  The meeting will begin at 1:00PM CST. All RAC meetings are subject to cancellation. For status of meeting prior to attendance, please contact Caroline Mitchell, Committee Coordinator, by phone at 501-321-5318 or via email at caroline.mitchell@usda.gov.

2019 Recreation Fees

New fees are effective August 1, 2019.

2019 Recreation fees and schedule

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Spotlights

2019 Motor Vehicle Use Maps (MVUMs) now available - View/print here

The MVUMs directed by the Travel Management Rule are now available for the Ouachita National Forest. 

Prescribed Fires on the Forest

The Ouachita National Forest will be conducting prescribed burns over the next several months.

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