Mt. Ida, Arkansas located in the heart of the Ouachita’s is the crystal capital of the world. You will find dozens of quartz mines where you can dig to your heart’s content. If don’t want to get our hands dirty rock shops abound in the area, where you can buy your crystals right off the shelf.
Our area is teeming with wildlife! From bobcats, mountain lions, and bears; bald eagles and the beautiful painted-bunting; garfish and even the occational alligator. And if you get far enough back into the forest, you may just get a glimpse of the elusive big foot... who knows.
If sailing, skiiing, tubing, jetboating, or even paddle-boating is your style, try one of scenic waterways. Surrounded by mountains and pinetrees, our waterways are among some of the most beautiful in the nation.
With the area's abundant lakes, rivers, streams, and untouched wildlife areas, anglers and hunters will find paradise in the Ouachitas. Fishing can be enjoyed year-round and hunting is open during specific seasons. Get your Arkansas hunting & fishing liscense and start enjoying.
There is no better place to enjoy the beautiful rugged landsape and breathtaking views from horseback then the Ouachita National Forest. Equestrians from across the nation visit for the adventure found only in the untouched wilderness.
The rivers flowing through the Ouachitas offers an abundance of fun or relaxation. Nature is at its purest from offering our guests opportunities to fish, float, swim, canoe, kayak, camp or take pictures. A number of cabin rentals and lodges offer spectacular views and direct access to the rivers and ATV trails.
With more than 600 miles of Trails in the Ouachita Mountains of Arkansas and Oklahoma, Mountain Bikers can enjoy uncrowded trails through one of the most scenic areas of Arkansas and Oklahoma. Utilizing the lands of the National Forest, State Parks, City Parks and Corps of Engineers, and more, the trails of the Ouachita Mountains present a wide variety of riding experiences for all skill levels of riders.
If off-roading is your passion, the Heart of the Ouachitas area is the place for you! Wolf Pen Gap Trails offers some to excite any rider. Teh system offiers 41 miles of trails looping through some of the most rugged and secluded areas of the Ouachita Mountians.
The incredible scenery and terrain of the area offers great hiking opportunities for nature lovers. Beginners and expert hikers will find the perfect trail in our neck of the woods. Majestic waterfalls, protected wildlife areas, scenic overlooks and natural, untouched forests are just a few of the attractions in our outdoor adventures. Discover our local trails in the Ouachita National Forest and the local Arkansas State Parks.