Brookside RV Retreat

Are you an Arkansan searching for the perfect basecamp to explore our state's stunning natural beauty? Perhaps you own an RV and are looking for a welcoming, spacious, and amenity-rich park, or maybe you're dreaming of a cozy cabin getaway. Look no further than Brookside RV Retreat, nestled in the picturesque Ouachita Mountains near Mena, Arkansas. This isn't just another RV park; it’s a tranquil haven designed for relaxation and adventure, perfectly situated for you to experience the best of Arkansas’s outdoors.

Brookside RV Retreat has garnered a reputation as a highly accommodating and friendly destination, run by a couple who are truly a pleasure to do business with. Whether you're planning a weekend escape, a longer vacation, or even a unique event like viewing a celestial phenomenon, this retreat offers the ideal setting. One guest perfectly captured the family-friendly appeal, noting, "That little waterfall and swimming hole made the kids trip. Especially when we could go ride and come back and take a dip in the nice clear water." This highlights the unique blend of amenities that cater to both active explorers and those simply seeking a peaceful dip.

For those who cherish the night sky, Brookside RV Retreat stands out as a true gem. It's officially "DARK SKY FRIENDLY," offering an unparalleled stargazing experience. Visitors who came specifically for a total eclipse rave about the campground's open space, allowing for an "extra wide view of the night sky." They further emphasize that "Since there are no street lights and the campground is far from any large town, the night skies are gorgeous." This makes Brookside RV Retreat an extraordinary destination for astronomers, photographers, or anyone who simply wants to witness the breathtaking beauty of an unpolluted night sky, a rare commodity in today's world.

Beyond the celestial views, the retreat serves as an excellent gateway to the vast Ouachita National Forest, which stretches in every direction. This makes it an indispensable hub for outdoor enthusiasts from across Arkansas. From hiking and biking to ATV riding, the possibilities for adventure are endless. The convenient location, combined with the comfortable and spacious sites, ensures that after a day of exploring, you have a perfect place to unwind and recharge. Brookside RV Retreat is not just a place to park your RV or rent a cabin; it’s your personal gateway to the untamed beauty and serene landscapes that define the heart of Arkansas.

Brookside RV Retreat is strategically located at 6035 AR-8 E, Mena, AR 71953, USA. This address places it just outside the charming city of Mena, deep within the scenic embrace of the Ouachita Mountains. For local Arkansans, this means an easily accessible escape that feels wonderfully remote without being overly difficult to reach.

The retreat's proximity to Arkansas Highway 8 E ensures straightforward access for RVs and other vehicles, making your journey smooth and stress-free. Its setting in Mena is particularly advantageous for outdoor adventurers, as the city is renowned as the "ATV Capital of Arkansas." This provides direct access to a vast network of off-road trails and scenic routes within the Ouachita National Forest, which surrounds the park in every direction.

Beyond the immediate outdoor activities, the location offers convenient access to local amenities. A small convenience store and cafe, known as "Big Fork Mall," is located very close by, providing essential supplies, snacks, and a quick bite to eat, perfect for those moments when you don't want to venture far. The town of Mena itself, while small, offers additional services, shops, and dining options within a short drive, ensuring you have everything you need for a comfortable stay.

For those looking to explore more of Arkansas's iconic scenery, the famous Talimena Scenic Byway, a breathtaking drive through the Ouachita Mountains, is also easily accessible from Brookside RV Retreat. This makes the park an ideal basecamp for leisurely drives, motorcycle tours, or extended hiking excursions along one of the nation's most picturesque routes. The balance between serene seclusion and convenient access to both natural wonders and essential services makes Brookside RV Retreat an exceptionally well-located choice for your next Arkansas adventure.

• Full Hook-Up (FHU) RV sites with water, sewer, and electric connections.
• Dry RV sites with potable water access available for those who prefer more primitive camping.
• On-site dump station for convenient waste disposal.
• Cozy cabin rentals, offering a comfortable alternative to RV camping (as noted by a customer who "liked the little cabin").
• Access to a natural swimming hole and small waterfall, perfect for refreshing dips (a highlight for families, as per customer reviews).
• Pet-friendly environment, ensuring your furry companions can join your adventure.
• Spacious sites that are "spaced far apart and easy to get into," providing privacy and ease of maneuverability for RVs.
• Dedicated dark sky friendly environment, minimizing light pollution for optimal stargazing and night sky viewing.
• Accommodating and friendly staff who are "super accommodating and are a pleasure to do business with."
• Access to potable water throughout the campground.
• Proximity to a small convenience store/cafe (Big Fork Mall) for quick supplies.
• Direct access to the Ouachita National Forest for various outdoor activities.

• Dark Sky Friendly: Designated as a premier location for stargazing due to minimal light pollution and open skies, offering an "extra wide view of the night sky." Ideal for astrophotography and celestial event viewing, such as the total eclipse.
• Natural Swimming Hole & Waterfall: A unique natural feature on the property providing a refreshing and popular spot for families and children to cool off and play in clear water.
• Direct Ouachita National Forest Access: Serves as an excellent base camp for exploring the vast Ouachita National Forest, known for its hiking, biking, ATV trails, and scenic drives.
• Spacious & Accessible Sites: RV sites are generously spaced, ensuring privacy and making them "easy to get into" for all sizes of recreational vehicles.
• Cozy Cabin Rentals: Offers comfortable cabin accommodations for those without an RV or who prefer a more traditional lodging experience.
• Pet-Friendly: Welcomes pets, allowing visitors to bring their beloved animals on their outdoor adventures.
• Friendly & Accommodating Owners: Guests consistently praise the "super accommodating" and pleasant demeanor of the campground operators.
• Convenient Location: Situated close to Mena, AR, and nearby amenities like the Big Fork Mall, while still offering a secluded natural feel.
• Ideal for Outdoor Enthusiasts: Perfect for ATV riders, hikers, mountain bikers, and anyone looking to immerse themselves in the Arkansas wilderness.
• Peaceful & Relaxing Atmosphere: Provides a serene environment conducive to unwinding and enjoying nature's tranquility.
• Year-Round Appeal: Suitable for visits in various seasons, from summer swims to fall foliage viewing and crisp winter stargazing.

While Brookside RV Retreat does not publicly advertise ongoing promotions or special offers in the same manner as larger corporate chains, their unique appeal lies in their exceptional value and personalized service. The significant features, such as the dark sky friendly environment, the natural swimming hole, and the highly accommodating management, are often considered the primary draw and a 'special offer' in themselves for those seeking a specific type of outdoor experience. For instance, being located in the centerline of totality for a recent total eclipse was a major draw, attracting visitors interested in unique celestial events, which the park was perfectly equipped to host.

For the most current information regarding pricing, availability, and any potential seasonal deals or package offerings, it is always recommended for interested parties to contact Brookside RV Retreat directly. Given their accommodating nature and desire to provide a positive experience, direct communication might also open up possibilities for custom arrangements, especially for extended stays or group bookings. Visitors planning to return, such as the family who stated, "We plan on coming back in September and will get with you about booking again," often establish direct relationships to ensure their future stays are just as enjoyable and well-planned. Their strength lies in word-of-mouth recommendations and a consistent, high-quality offering, rather than flash sales. Therefore, a direct phone call is the best way to discover if there are any specific rates or packages available for your intended visit.

Address: 6035 AR-8 E, Mena, AR 71953, USA

Phone: (479) 243-5047

Mobile Phone: +1 479-243-5047

For residents of Arkansas, Brookside RV Retreat offers an unparalleled opportunity to escape, relax, and explore the natural wonders right in our backyard. Nestled in the heart of the Ouachita Mountains near Mena, this RV park and cabin retreat perfectly embodies the spirit of Arkansas's outdoor lifestyle. It’s more than just a place to park your RV; it’s a community-focused destination where the owners genuinely care about your experience, making it feel like a home away from home. As one delighted guest shared, "The couple running the campground are super accommodating and are a pleasure to do business with." This level of personal touch is a significant draw for locals seeking a reliable and welcoming retreat.

The retreat's unique natural amenities are a strong appeal for Arkansas families and outdoor enthusiasts. The presence of a "little waterfall and swimming hole" provides a refreshing and memorable experience, especially for children, allowing them to cool off and play in clear, natural water after a day of adventure. This family-friendly feature, coupled with the pet-friendly policy, means that the entire household can enjoy the getaway, making it a convenient choice for weekend trips or longer vacations without the hassle of extensive travel.

Furthermore, for those of us who appreciate the vastness of the Arkansas night sky, Brookside RV Retreat is an absolute revelation. Its "DARK SKY FRIENDLY" designation means that you can truly witness the brilliance of the stars without urban light pollution, an increasingly rare and precious experience. This makes it an ideal spot for amateur astronomers, photographers, or anyone simply looking to enjoy a stunning celestial display. Combined with its direct access to the expansive Ouachita National Forest, the retreat becomes an indispensable basecamp for hiking, ATV riding, and exploring the countless trails and scenic routes that crisscross our beautiful state. Whether you're planning an exhilarating off-road adventure or a tranquil stargazing session, Brookside RV Retreat caters to a wide array of local outdoor passions.

In essence, Brookside RV Retreat provides a harmonious blend of natural beauty, convenient amenities, and genuine hospitality, all within easy reach for Arkansans. It's a place where memories are made, whether you're fishing in a nearby stream, driving the Talimena Scenic Byway, or simply enjoying the quiet serenity of the mountains. For an authentic and enriching Arkansas outdoor experience, Brookside RV Retreat stands out as a top choice for locals.