Hiking
Backpacking and day hiking are both available in the forest.
Backpacking
Whether you're roughing it in a tent or planning a family picnic, there are many ways to make sure that your experience is fun and safe.
Day Hikes
Hiking is a wonderful way to see and experience the many wonders of our nation’s forests. Visit our forest’s ranger district office, All Maps page, or National Forest Store to obtain a trail map to help you plan your route based on your ability, available time and interest.
Search for Hiking Opportunities
Cedar Lake Recreation Area
Site Open
Cedar Lake is located in southeast Oklahoma, in the pine and hardwood-forested mountains of Ouachita National Forest. The campground is situated on the shores of the scenic lake, a popular…
Cedar Lake/Old Pine Hiking Area
Site Open
Hikers may access the Cedar Lake Trail from any of the established camping areas. The trail hugs the shoreline and completely encircles Cedar Lake. This trail offers an array of opportunities to day…
Charlton Recreation Area
Site Open
Charlton Recreation Area is located 20 miles west of Hot Springs along Highway 270. Picnic, swim, hike, and fish along picturesque Walnut Creek, a cold, spring-fed mountain stream in the heart of…
Charlton Trail
The Charlton Trail begins at Charlton Recreation Area and ends at Crystal Springs Campground on beautiful Lake Ouachita. Both areas offer camping, picnicking, and swimming. This trail is a popular…
Crystal Campground
Site Open
Small primitive campground in an attractive wooded site next to a small stream. No water or electric available.
Crystal Vista Trail
Crystal Vista is nestled among the trees high atop Gardner Mountain. Quartz crystals can be easily collected from the ground surface of this 4-acre former commercial crystal mine.
Danville Mountain Trail
This interpretive trail has the first half mile surfaced and is accessible for wheel chairs, walkers, and other similar types of equipment. Along the trail, you will enjoy interpretive signs focused…
Dry Creek Wilderness
Site Open
6,310 acres featuring secluded forest, scenic overlooks, seasonal flowing stream, and sandstone bluffs.
Eagle Rock Loop
Site Open
This trail offers the longest loop trail in Arkansas and was developed along a 100-year-old postal route and old wagon roads.A combination of the Little Missouri, the Athens-Big Fork and part of the…
Earthquake Ridge Trail
This trail parallels the Talimena Scenic Byway on the north and south sides of Rich Mountain. The day hiker will view several interesting rock formations as well as a variety of plant and animal…