With over 2,000 lakes in Arkansas, isn’t it nice to find one that’s so secluded that you can escape life for a while? A lake where you can relax and be at one with nature without too many folks around. Well, at Shady Lake, you can do just that. While it might not be the most remote lake in Arkansas, in my opinion, it’s one of the most peaceful.

Nestled inside the remote mountains of the Ouachita National Forest in Mena is Shady Lake. It’s a 25-acre picturesque lake perfect for an escape in nature.
Mark Corder/Google
Constructed in 1937 by the Civilian Conservation Corps, this crescent-shaped lake is surrounded by a recreation area.
lake in Arkansas
Torie Sperry/Google
The Shady Lake Recreational Area has 66 campsites available on a first come first serve basis.
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The serene campground is divided into four camping loops, and some are equipped with water and electricity and can fit 32-foot campers.
The sites range in amenities from full hook-ups to no service at all. But you’ll enjoy incredible waterfront views from some of the campsites.
Cindy/Google
You’ll have access to clean water as well as bathhouses equipped with full bathroom facilities with warm showers.
Other recreational amenities include boating, fishing, a swimming beach, BBQ grills, a picnic area, a firepit, and a three-mile hiking trail.
Tena Jones/Google
The trails are peaceful and secluded and you can either hike or bike through them. There’s plenty of wildlife and things to do and see while you trek.

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Enjoy views of the lake, the creeks, and the streams that flow along the trail…
Tena Jones/Google
…as well as the gorgeous rock bridge with the stream flowing through it.
Patrick Caple/Google
The area is ideal for unwinding and immersing in the beauty of nature.
But the highlight of this area is the Shady Lake Dam, a magnificent structure located along the hiking trail.
lake in Arkansas
Billy Welch/Google
You’ll want to take some time and enjoy the solitude as well as capture this incredible dam and waterfall.
Tena Jones/Google
The recreation area is open all year-round and it's perfect for a peaceful getaway. You’ll be glad you have no cell service and were able to escape and be one with nature.
Mary Jimenez/Google

Discover more about this peaceful lake by watching this awesome YouTube video by Kevin Avery.

So, have you ever been to Shady Lake Recreational Area? If so, did you enjoy this remote lake in Arkansas? For more information including campground rates as well as specific directions, visit the Shady Lake website.

And while you’re in Mena, be sure to grab a bite to eat at this iconic 100-year-old restaurant in Arkansas.

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More to Explore

ARKANSAS LAKES & RELATED INFO

Melanie J. | June 15, 2023

What are the best lakes in Arkansas?

Of course, Lake Ouachita is the best lake in Arkansas, but here are some more lakes in Arkansas that are full of adventure.

  • Greers Ferry Lake, Heber Spring
  • Mirror Lake, near Mountain View
  • DeGray Lake, Bismarck
  • Lake Dardanelle, Dardanelle
  • Beaver Lake, Eureka Springs
  • Bull Shoals Lake, Bull Shoals
  • Table Rock Lake, Northern Arkansas
  • Lake Greeson, Murfreesboro
  • Norfork Lake, Mountain Home
  • Lake Catherine, Hot Springs


Be sure to check out this article about some more of the best lakes in Arkansas that are great for summertime fun. 

What are the most popular swimming holes in Arkansas?

Swimming holes in Arkansas are a great way to spend the summer. And here are a few of the most popular swimming holes in Arkansas that are worthy of a visit.

  • Walnut Creek, Royal
  • Riverside Park, West Fork
  • Cedar Creek, Hagarville
  • Little Missouri River, Langley
  • Sylamore Creek, Fifty-Six
  • Big Piney Creek, Dover
  • Gunner Pool Recreation Area, Fifty-Six
  • Kings River Falls Natural Area, Witter
  • Lake Ponder, Paragould
  • Richland Creek Wilderness, Sand Gap


Read our previous article to discover more about these popular swimming holes in Arkansas.

What are the best hiking trails in Arkansas?

As the Natural State, there are endless hiking trails in Arkansas. And here are 10 of the best hiking trails that we recommend: 

  • Lost Valley Trail, Ponca
  • Glory Hole Waterfall Trail, Huntsville
  • Whitaker Point Trail, Deer
  • Pam's Grotto Trail, Hagarville
  • Hemmed-In Hollow Falls, Compton
  • Pinnacle Mountain West Summit Trail, Little Rock
  • Falling Water Falls, Sand Gap
  • Sam’s Throne Trail, Mount Judea
  • Indian Rock House Trail, Fairfield Bay
  • Triple Falls Trail, Jasper


Here’s a previous article highlighting some more of the best hiking trails in Arkansas.

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Shady Lake Recreation Area, Mena, AR 71953, USA