Shady Lake Recreation Area

Shady Lake Recreation Area Introduce

For those of us living in Arkansas who cherish the tranquility of nature and the joy of outdoor adventure, Shady Lake Recreation Area stands out as a truly remarkable destination. Nestled deep within the vast and stunning Ouachita National Forest, this picturesque 25-acre lake offers a serene escape from the everyday hustle and bustle. Developed with care by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in 1937, Shady Lake isn't just a campground; it's a beautifully maintained natural retreat steeped in history, offering a harmonious blend of rugged wilderness and comfortable amenities. Whether you're planning a family camping trip, a solo hiking expedition, or a peaceful day by the water, Shady Lake provides an inviting environment that consistently earns praise for its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. It's a place where memories are made, under the shade of towering trees and beside crystal-clear waters.

Shady Lake Recreation Area is located in the heart of the Ouachita National Forest, with its official address listed as Arkansas 71971, USA. More specifically, it's approximately 40 miles west of Glenwood, Arkansas, and about 45 miles southeast of Mena, Arkansas. For residents across the state, reaching Shady Lake involves a scenic drive through the rolling hills and dense forests that define this region of Arkansas. While it might feel pleasantly remote, making it an ideal spot for true escape, it's accessible enough for a weekend trip from many major population centers within the state. From Hot Springs, Little Rock, or even Texarkana, the routes typically involve well-maintained state highways that eventually transition into forest roads leading directly to the recreation area. The journey itself is part of the experience, offering glimpses of the stunning landscapes that characterize the Ouachita Mountains. It's a destination that feels far away, yet remains within reach for a rejuvenating outdoor adventure, allowing locals to easily tap into the natural beauty right in their backyard.

Shady Lake Recreation Area is thoughtfully equipped with a variety of services designed to enhance your stay, catering to different camping preferences while maintaining a focus on outdoor enjoyment. These services ensure that visitors have access to essential comforts while immersed in nature.

Diverse Campsite Options: The campground boasts 51 campsites spread across four loops, offering a range of amenities. This includes sites with no services for primitive tent camping, as well as sites with electric and water hookups. There's even one site with full hookups (electric, water, and sewer), accommodating RVs up to 32 feet in length. This variety ensures there's a suitable spot for every type of camper.
Bathhouses with Warm Showers and Flush Toilets: A significant comfort for campers, particularly after a day of outdoor activities, are the clean and well-maintained bathhouses offering warm showers and flush toilets. This amenity is highly valued, providing a more comfortable camping experience than many rustic sites. Two of the restrooms are also accessible.
Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is readily available within the campground area, ensuring campers have access to fresh water throughout their stay.
Day Use Facilities: Beyond camping, Shady Lake offers a dedicated day-use area. This includes a designated swimming site, picnic pavilions, picnic tables with BBQ grills, and restrooms, making it perfect for day visitors as well.
Dump Station: For RV campers, a dump station is available on-site, providing a convenient way to dispose of waste.
First-Come, First-Served Sites: All campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning no reservations are typically accepted. This allows for spontaneous trips but advises early arrival, especially during peak season.

Shady Lake Recreation Area is rich with features and highlights that make it a standout destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Arkansas. These attributes contribute to its reputation as a peaceful and picturesque retreat.

Scenic 25-Acre Lake: The centerpiece of the recreation area is Shady Lake itself, a beautiful 25-acre body of water perfect for non-motorized boating (kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding), fishing, and swimming. Its tranquil surface reflects the surrounding mountains, creating a stunning backdrop for all activities.
Historic CCC Development: The area was developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in 1937, and their craftsmanship is still evident in structures like the historic Shady Lake Dam, the CCC-built bathhouse at the swimming area (a rustic log structure with a charming open picnic area), and other stone bridges and facilities. This historical element adds a unique layer to the visitor experience.
Shady Lake Trail: A highlight for hikers and mountain bikers is the Shady Lake Trail, an easy 3.2-mile unsurfaced trail that traverses Saline Creek and follows the eastern edge of the campground and the shoreline of Shady Lake. It's ideal for day hiking and offers beautiful views of the lake and surrounding forest.
Peaceful and Quiet Atmosphere: Despite its popularity, visitors often describe Shady Lake as "peaceful and quiet." Its remote mountain setting helps maintain a serene ambiance, making it perfect for relaxation and enjoying the natural sounds.
Abundant Shade: As its name suggests, Shady Lake offers plenty of tree cover, providing ample shade, which is especially welcome during the warmer Arkansas months. This contributes to comfortable camping and picnicking experiences.
Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: Being within the Ouachita National Forest, the area is home to a variety of wildlife, offering opportunities for birdwatching and observing local fauna.
Day Use & Swimming Area: A designated swimming beach allows visitors to cool off in the lake, and the adjacent day-use area with picnic tables and grills is perfect for family outings.
Accessibility: While in a remote setting, the recreation area has made efforts towards accessibility, with two accessible restrooms available.

For more information or inquiries regarding Shady Lake Recreation Area, you can contact the managing body, typically the U.S. Forest Service office for the Ouachita National Forest's Mena-Oden Ranger District. While reservations are not accepted as sites are first-come, first-served, reaching out can provide valuable up-to-date information on conditions, fees, and operational hours.

Address: Arkansas 71971, USA (located within the Ouachita National Forest, near Mena and Glenwood)

Phone: (479) 394-2382 (Mena-Oden Ranger District)

Shady Lake Recreation Area is truly a quintessential Arkansas outdoor destination, making it exceptionally suitable for locals seeking a genuine connection with our state's stunning natural heritage. Its blend of accessible amenities and a wonderfully preserved natural environment caters to a wide array of outdoor enthusiasts, from families with young children eager to swim and explore, to avid hikers and mountain bikers looking to tackle scenic trails, and even those simply wishing for a quiet, shaded spot to relax by the water. The historical significance, evidenced by the CCC-built structures, adds a unique educational and aesthetic dimension that many Arkansans appreciate, offering a glimpse into the past while enjoying the present. The flexibility of campsite options, from primitive tent sites to RV sites with hookups, means that whether you're a seasoned backcountry camper or prefer some creature comforts, Shady Lake has a spot for you. Its location within the Ouachita National Forest ensures a rich and diverse natural setting, teeming with opportunities for wildlife viewing and peaceful contemplation. For us Arkansans, Shady Lake Recreation Area is more than just a place to camp; it’s a cherished local treasure that embodies the spirit of our state’s beautiful and welcoming outdoors, offering a perfect escape that’s both convenient and deeply rewarding, fostering a love for the wilderness that can be passed down through generations right here in our beloved Arkansas.