Arkansas is quickly becoming one of my most favorite states to visit. I don’t know if it’s because of the peacefulness of the miles and miles of dirt roads, the ability to disconnect in with no-service, the private swimming holes, or the unique hikes, BUT Arkansas is definitely a hidden gem in the United States. If you are looking for a relaxing weekend getaway, here is the most perfect Ouachita National Forest weekend itinerary. Complete with the best things to do in the Ouachita Mountains, best hikes in southeastern Arkansas, a trip to Hot Springs National Park, and of course all the dog-friendly things to do in the Ouachitas.
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Table of Contents
How do I get to the Ouachita National Forest?
We drove to the Ouachita’s from Dallas, BUT there is an airport in Hot Springs that would be the perfect starting point to this weekend getaway! Because I love a good road trip, there is of course driving time between the stops… I always try to see as much of a new location in the time given!
Below is a map of the stops we made throughout the weekend.
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- Distance to Hot Springs AR from Dallas, TX: 296 miles
- Distance to Hot Springs, AR from Oklahoma City, OK: 310 miles
- Distance to Hot Springs, AR from Memphis, TN: 192 miles
- Distance to Hot Springs, AR from Little Rock, AR: 56 miles
When is the best time to visit?
Ouachita National Forest Average Temperatures:
- Summer (June-August): 90/67
- Fall (September-November): 74/50
- Winter (December-February): 53/32
- Spring (March-May): 72/49
Where should I stay for my Ouachita National Forest Weekend Getaway?
There are many cozy cabins to choose from, but I HIGHLY suggest booking a Glamping Tent through Ouachita Wilde. She will set up your tent at a location of your choice (within 80 miles of Mena, AR) and they are SO cute. Complete with air-conditioning, a comfy bed, a grill and cooking dishes, games, indoor and outdoor chairs, and cozy decor…you will not be disappointed! ANDDDD it’s dog-friendly!
Ouachita Wilde set up our tent at Mountain Shadow Campground just south of Mena. It had clean bathrooms, a peaceful pond, and a swimming pool on-site! It would definitely be perfect to set up on a lake though! So be sure to reach out to Ouachita Wilde for the best sites and recommendations!
Other camping in the Ouachita National Forest:
- Arkansas State Parks: Arkansas is home to so many BEAUTIFUL state parks. Lake Catherine, Lake Ouachita, and Queen Wilhelmina are all located in the Ouachita National Forest and offer campsites and RV sites.
- Gulpha Gorge Campground: Located inside Hot Springs National Park, Gulpha Gorge campsite offers full hook-ups, picnic tables, and grills.
- Catherine’s Landing Campground: An all-inclusive campground with tent sites, yurts, cabins, charming cottages, and RV sites to choose from. There is also a splash pad, swimming pool, disc golf course, zipline, and aerial course. AND it’s only 5 minutes from Hot Springs National Park.
- Dispersed Camping: Primitive camping is allowed in the Ouachita National Forest unless otherwise stated. There are of course no facilities at these sites, but a perfect way to have all the privacy and peacefulness.
Tip! Check out Weelerz search engine. It’s basically the Airbnb of campers, vans, and RVs. The perfect way to see the MOST of the Ouachita’s!
Cabin and hotels in the Ouachita National Forest
- The Hotel Hot Springs: Located within walking distance from Hot Springs National Park, but dogs are not allowed here.
- La Quinta Inn and Suites: If traveling with your dog, La Quinta’s are always a great option. Clean, comfortable, affordable, AND free breakfast.
- Sassafrass Inn: Located on the western side of the Ouachitas (near Queen Wilhelmina State Park), this Inn provides all the charm. Complete with free breakfast, 20 dollar pet fee, and cozy decor!
Keep Reading::: BEST(dog-friendly) Weekend Getaways from Dallas, TX
BEST things to do in the Ouachita National Forest
I am fairly confident that you could drive in any direction and find cool swimming holes, dirt roads, and peacefulness, BUT if you need some direction…here are my FAVORITE things to do while visiting + some that are still on my bucket list.
Take a hike in the Ouachita National Forest
- Lover’s Leap (Queen Wilhelmina State Park): Located near Mena, AR this 1.1-mile hike will give you great views of Rich Mountain. It’s rated as moderate with a 242 ft. elevation gain. Dogs are able to join you and it’s a great short hike to watch the suns set or rise!
- Fall Branch Falls (Lake Catherine State Park): A perfect short hike to a refreshing waterfall! This is a popular hike and state park, so be prepared to have other hikers on the trail with you. It’s a total of 1.7 miles (loop trail), with just over 200 ft elevation gain.
- Caddo Bend Trail (Lake Ouachita State Park): This was my favorite hike of the trip (pictured above)! During this 4 mile loop, you are met with BEAUTIFUL views of Lake Ouachita and mountain views. There are also several spots where you can take a detour down to the lake for a refreshing swim!
- Hot Springs National Park Hiking: There are several hikes located within the National Park. We did not do any of these (we are babies in the heat and stuck to water hikes), BUT you can check them out HERE, and read all the reviews of others who have hiked them!
Tip! Even though these are short hikes, be sure to bring your hydration pack as it was EXTREMELY hot. You always want to make sure you have MORE than enough water!
Stroll the trails of the Garvan Woodland Gardens
Garvan Gardens is a super unique dog-friendly attraction in Hot Springs Arkansas. For 15 dollars a person (5 dollars for your pup), you can explore over 18 different gardens. There is a Koi pond, unique treehouse, children’s garden, waterfalls, and even peacocks roaming around. Such a peaceful stop!
Jump in a swimming holes in the Ouachita National Forest
- Cossotot River State Park: A quiet state park located down a 6-mile dirt road…just think of it as a scenic drive through the Arkansas forest :). Once you arrive, there is plenty of parking close by the river (type in Cossotot River Falls in your GPS). Once here, it’s just a short walk to the falls, where you can find a private spot to cool off!
- Little Missouri Falls: An even more remote swimming area than Cossotot. Little Missouri Falls are located 31 miles southwest of Mena. From the parking lot, you will see a picnic area and a trail. The trail will take you to the falls. For detailed directions, click here!
- Fall branch Trail: Just 17 miles from Hot Springs National Park, you will find a perfect small swimming hole along the Fall Branch Trail in Lake Catherine State Park. Lake Catherine is also a perfect spot to jump in a cool off!
Tip! Make sure to pack your Keens (as seen in the picture) as you will want to be able to walk in the creeks/swimming holes/ and lakes to cool off.
Day trip to Hot Springs National Park
Hot Springs National Park is different than any national park you may be used to. BUT, I do think it is still worth a visit (and I LOOOOOVE a pup-friendly national park!). If you are looking to escape into nature, this is NOT the national park for you, but there is a great history and beautiful historic buildings to admire.
Things to do in Hot Springs National Park:
- Stroll along Bathhouse Row: The most popular reason people come to visit Hot Springs National Park. Located right downtown you will find 8 different historic bathhouses built between 1892 and 1923. The Buckstaff Bathhouse still offers traditional type therapy and baths. The Quapaw Baths are home to public thermal baths (20 dollars per person) and specialized spa services. Unfortunately, the bathhouses (except Superior Bathhouse below) are not dog-friendly, but it was still fun to see them from the outside! Read more about the Bathhouse row here!
- Take a Duck Ride: During this 75-minute tour, you will learn all about the history of the park, marvel at Bathhouse Row, then take in the views while floating along Lake Hamilton. It’s the perfect way to see (and learn about) the city!
- Tour the Wax Museum: Yes, there are these Wax Museum’s all over the country, but if looking for a rainy day activity or wanting to pass a bit of time, it is located right along the main street!
- Sample beer made with the city’s Spring Water: I’m obsessed with this brewery because they let dogs INSIDE… and the food/beer was delicious 🙂 It is VERY popular, but we were able to put our name on the waitlist and walk along Bathhouse Row while we waited.
Want to keep all your ideas for your next road trip organized? Grab your FREE Travel Planner here! (15+ pages to plan the perfect road trip!)
Sample Itinerary for an Ouachita National Forest Weekend Getaway from Dallas, TX
Friday: Arrival, swimming, and sunset hikes!
- Stop 1: Cossatot River State Park
- Stop 2: Check in to campsite/hotel
- Stop 3: Sunset hike at Queen Wilhelmina State Park (Lover’s Leap Trail)
Saturday: Road trip to Hot Springs!
- Stop 1: Garvan Woodland Gardens
- Stop 2: Lake Catherin State Park (Fall Branch Trail)
- Stop 3: Hot Springs National Park
- Stop 4: Lake Ouachita State Park (Caddo Bend Trail)
Sunday: Swimming Holes and home!
- Stop 1: Little Missouri Falls
- Stop 2: Start the drive home!
A weekend getaway to the Ouachita National Forest is the perfect way to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With all the hidden natural wonders, it’s no wonder it’s considered the natural state! Be sure to follow along on Instagram for more dog-friendly USA road trip itineraries and stops!
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