Mena is probably best known for its wealth of outdoor recreation opportunities.  So whether you prefer excitement or relaxation, we have something for you!

Rivers

Ouachita, Cossatot, Caddo, and Little Missouri rivers all flow through the area surrounding Mena, offering an abundance of fun or relaxation.  Nature is at its purest form, offering visitors opportunities to fish, float, swim, canoe, kayak, camp or take pictures.

Lakes

Lakes offer a variety of recreational activities year round.  So whether your desire is boating, fishing, camping, swimming, or skiing, we have a lake in our area that can float your boat!  Mena is within an hour's drive of such lakes as Wilhelmina, Shady, Gilham and DeQueen.  Smaller lakes are also close by.  Gain access to Arkansas' largest lake, Lake Ouachita, just 45 minutes from Mena.

Canoeing/Kayaking

If the term "skull crusher" (the Indian name for Cossatot) isn't a deterrent, then you'll want to conquer the wters of the Cossatot River.  Defined by the National Park Service as "the most challenging whitewater float in Arkansas," Cossatot's waters are not for the casual paddlers.  The river's characteristics give it class IV/Class V ratings.  The Little Missouri River offers a more relaxed float (Class I-III) and for the more experienced floater, a small section offers Class IV.

ATV & Mountain Biking

Take in nature up close with the popular All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) at Wolf Pen Gap ATV Trails.  This trail offers 41 miles of loop trails.  The trails are connected to accommodate riders who want to vary the length of their trips.  Trails range from easy to most difficult.  Area offers numerous crystal clear streams and great camping opportunities.  Cyclists from across the country also visit Mena each year for events and a number of biking trails.

Golfing

A favorite hobby for many is also available in Mena so go ahead and pack your irons!  Try out one of our 2 golf courses on your stay with us!

Fall Foliage

Autumn's changing colors bring the Ouachitas to life!  Thousands make the journey here each year to witness the beauty.  Local and national artists have used our splendid backdrop as the focus of paintings and photography.  Peak foliage occurs during late October and early November.

Fishing

With the area's abundant lakes, rivers, and streams, you're guaranteed to get hooked on a Ouachita vacation!  Bass fishing, the area's most popular and abundant, can be enjoyed most months of the year and found in all the area's lakes and rivers.  Our waters offer a variety of the bass species.  Other catches may include crappie, perch, and on the Little Missouri River, cool-season rainbow fishing.

Hiking

The incredible scenery and terrain of the area offers great hiking opportunities for nature lovers.  Caney Creek, Athens-Big Fork, Winding Stair, Big Brushy, Billy Creek, Wolf Pen Gap, and the largest in the state of Arkansas, Ouachita National Recreation.  Trails all start in or near Mena.

Source: "Mena - Where Good Things Happen" - Mena Advertising & Promotion Commission Info@GoMenaArkansas.com