Bard Springs Recreation Area
4.5518 reviews1603 Hwy 71 N Mena, AR 71953
Bard Springs Recreation Area
$0.00 - $8.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Day Use Area: No Charge. Historical camping fee was $8/night per user reviews.
About this campground
Tucked away in a secluded mountain hollow, this intimate campground offers rustic Adirondack-style shelters along the banks of a babbling mountain stream. While nature's fury has temporarily closed this hidden gem due to tornado damage, the spirit of this wilderness retreat remains unbroken, awaiting its return to welcome adventurers seeking solitude and serenity.
The campground previously supported primitive and tent camping with Adirondack-type shelters, but all camping is currently closed due to extensive storm damage.
Historical SignificanceEven in its temporary closure, this campground continues to captivate visitors with its enduring beauty and rich heritage. The site stands as a testament to the timeless allure of the American wilderness, where generations of outdoor enthusiasts have found refuge and renewal among these ancient hills.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transitions of the mountain wilderness, where crisp, bone-chilling winters gradually surrender to the warmth of summer. Early season visitors should prepare for very cold conditions that slowly give way to balmy days. Summer brings its own character with warm, humid afternoons perfect for cooling off in the nearby stream.
Elevationnull
Natural Features and SceneryDiscover a photographer's paradise where history meets natural beauty. The centerpiece is a stunning historic stone bathhouse, its weathered rocks telling stories of countless visitors who've passed through these grounds. Two carefully crafted dams create enchanting cascading waterfalls that provide both a soothing soundtrack and spectacular photo opportunities throughout your stay.
Geological RegionNestled deep within the majestic Ouachita National Forest, this campground occupies a privileged position in one of America's oldest mountain ranges. The remote setting places you at the heart of an ancient landscape where weathered peaks cradle pristine streams, creating an intimate natural amphitheater perfect for reconnecting with the wilderness.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned or verified.
Sites SizeSites were described as small, with Adirondack-style shelters available before the storm damage.
Sites PrivacySites were noted as reasonably spaced out, offering a feel of seclusion and being in the middle of the forest before the storm damage.
Total Campsites5 campsites
Recommended Campsitesnull
Best Campsitesnull
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
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Check-out
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Stay Limit
Null
Guests Allowed Per Site
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Groups
Group camping details are unavailable.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutnull
Open and Closed SeasonDay use area open year-round. Campground temporarily closed due to storm damage.
Reservation Platformsnull
Walk-in AvailabilityDay Use Area: Walk-in access only, gate closed.
Cancellation Policynull
Amenities available
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Bard Springs Recreation Area offers outdoor activities such as swimming, hiking, and picnicking in a remote mountain setting. However, due to storm damage, access to some trails and paths is blocked.
Hiking
Day hiking is available, though access to some trails is obstructed by fallen trees, as noted in user reviews.Swimming
"Awesome place to swim and picnic." There is a small scenic stream and a swimming hole. Safety measures are not detailed.Winter Activities
Winter activities such as snowshoeing or skiing are not addressed.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking or canoeing are not mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
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- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazards"Tornado damage along the road and at the Campground" (User review by Lacifer Y).
Active alerts"Site Temporarily Closed" due to storm damage.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 73%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 10.7 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Mena Oden Ranger District provides emergency contact information: Phone (479) 394-2382.
Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling details are not provided. However, given the remote nature of the site and its current closed status, such facilities are unlikely to be available.
Proximity to water featuresThe site is next to streams and springs which are scenic, but access may be limited due to storm damage.
Common complaints"Shelters are pretty much all damaged and inaccessible." (User review by Josh Bellamy).
Hostnull
Campground Map
1603 Hwy 71 N Mena, AR 71953
Driving directionsTake Arkansas Hwy. 84 west of Glenwood, AR; turn northwest on Arkansas Hwy. 246 at Athens, AR; turn right (north) on Forest Service Road 38 for 7 miles; turn right (east) on Forest Service Road 106 for 1/2 mile.
The road into the campground includes loose gravel and twisty sections, making it challenging for smaller vehicles, especially motorcycles. "The road in and out is loose gravel and is rather twisty at times."Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
4.6
18 reviews
Bard Springs Recreation Area is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews describe Bard Springs Recreation Area as a previously beautiful and secluded location that has been significantly impacted by storm damage. The Day Use area remains open, and visitors appreciate the scenic beauty despite the destruction.
Review Summaries
Based on 18 reviews
What Campers Love
"Beautiful old rock bathhouse," "awesome place to swim and picnic," and "great secluded area with lovely nature spots."
Based on 18 reviewsCommon Concerns
Severe storm damage, closed camping facilities, blocked trails, and inaccessible shelters. One user mentioned, "The drive into the area is completely blocked by more than one massive tree."
Based on 18 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
"Walk over to the spring and creek," "Drive slow when you enter the park," and "A regular car won't cut it; medium SUV and up is recommended for the terrain."
Based on 18 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer: Swimming and picnicking are popular. Winter reviews highlight the challenges of accessing the area due to closures. Spring and fall experiences are not explicitly detailed.
Based on 18 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Beautiful area with historical value." - Lacifer Y. "Camping is cheap at $8/night." - Christopher Vinn. "Lovely nature spots all over." - King Nard.
Based on 18 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Specific campsites are not mentioned by number, but the Adirondack shelters were a highlight before the storm damage.
Based on 18 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility.
Based on 18 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically address pet policies or experiences.
Based on 18 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025