Shady Lake Campground

Closed — Closed for the season. The campground operates seasonally, and potable water is not currently available. The trail remains open year-round.

About

Shady Lake Recreation Area is a scenic campground nestled in the remote mountain setting of the Ouachita National Forest in southwestern Arkansas. Developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1937, the recreation area centers around a picturesque 25-acre lake on the South Fork Saline River. The campground features 51 campsites organized across four loops, offering a range of amenities from no-service sites to sites with electric and sewer hookups. Most sites include picnic tables, fire rings, and grills. Beyond camping, the recreation area provides excellent day-use opportunities including a swimming beach, fishing access, and picnic pavilions. The 3-mile Shady Lake Trail traverses Saline Creek, passes the historic Shady Lake Dam, and continues along the eastern edge of the campground, making it ideal for day hiking and mountain biking. The campground can accommodate RVs up to 32 feet in length and is located approximately 40 miles west of Glenwood and 45 miles southeast of Mena, Arkansas.

Directions

Take Arkansas Highway 84 west of Glenwood. Turn northwest on Arkansas Highway 246 at Athens. Turn right at the sign and drive 3 miles north on Forest Service Road 38 (Shady Lake Road) to the campground.

Nearby Campgrounds