Ouachita National Forest
Rich in history, the Ouachita Mountains were first explored in 1584 by Desoto’s Spaniards. The 1600s brought French explorers trading pelts with the Indians. Settlers from Tennessee, Mississippi, and Alabama came in the 1800s looking for farmland. The railroads opened up the area for the timber industry during the turn of the 20th century. Numerous mineral springs also brought many visitors during this time.
The outdoor recreation possibilities are endless: sight-seeing, camping, swimming, fishing, and hunting name a few. The forest and wildlife attract naturalists and photographers and the geology is a rock hound’s paradise. The recreation facilities boast untouched scenic beauty of streams, lakes, springs, pools, and waterfalls. Many offer nature trails and pathways.
Managed by the USDA Forest Service, careful management practices and coordination with public users assure the lands are maintained for this and future generations to enjoy.