Kampgrounds of America, Inc. (KOA) welcomed Christi Austin, Benjamin Appleton and the Mena/Ouachita National Forest KOA Journey to the KOA family of campgrounds. A passionate camper herself, Austin brings a deep appreciation for outdoor hospitality and a desire to contribute to the local Mena community through tourism and high-quality guest experiences, KOA said in a release.
Originally built as a KOA in 1977, the campground is returning to the KOA franchise network after a period of independent operation. It sits under a canopy of mature shade trees in Arkansas’s scenic Ouachita Mountains. Conveniently located near the famed Wolf Pen Gap trail system, the Mena/Ouachita National Forest KOA Journey blends natural beauty with trail-ready adventure, KOA said. With its unique tiered layout, peaceful stocked fishing lake, and direct access to off-road trails, it offers a one-of-a-kind camping experience in western Arkansas.
“As avid campers, we knew from the start that we’d either buy a KOA or convert to one,” said Christi Austin, campground owner. “KOA is a trusted, nationally recognized brand with a loyal following. Partnering with KOA was an easy decision thanks to the incredible support from the home office and the strength of the brand.”
Campgrounds have a significant economic and cultural impact on local communities. According to KOA’s annual Camping and Outdoor Hospitality Report, campers injected $61 billion into local economies in 2024, with the average camper spending $200 daily while camping. Campers are looking to experience the culture of local regions, with 27% of campers saying they are interested in visiting small towns, and another 27% drawn to food tourism.
Conveniently located near the highways and byways of North America, KOA Journey campgrounds are the perfect stop after a long day on the road, the company said. With long pull-thru RV sites for quick and easy setup, well-lit after-hours check-in and a robust line of RV supplies, KOA Journey campgrounds promise a hassle-free stay for travelers.
The Mena/Ouachita National Forest KOA Journey offers 88 total sites, including 73 RV sites, seven cozy cabins and five tent sites. Built in 1977, the established campground retains many of its original shade trees and features a unique tiered layout that creates scenic, private spots to unwind. It’s also the only campground in the area with a pool — a favorite among traveling families. A stocked fishing lake, clean walking trails, ultra-clean bathrooms and direct access to ATV-friendly trails provide campers with a full range of outdoor recreation, the company said. For added convenience, UTV rentals are delivered directly to the campground for those eager to explore the trails without bringing their own.
Austin and her team have prioritized amenities that enhance comfort and convenience. Guests enjoy high-speed fiber Wi-Fi, gated entry, storm shelters, a modern bathhouse, food delivery to the campground gate, an on-site store, a playground, dog park, laundry facilities, and both nightly and monthly rates. Premium concrete lakeside sites and RV/trailer storage options are also available for guests seeking extended stays or flexible travel options.
“We’re proud to offer a campground that feels truly connected to nature,” said Austin. “The property’s unique layout sets it apart, and our goal is to continue attracting tourism to the Mena area in a way that supports local businesses and celebrates this incredible region. We’re excited to see how the KOA brand can help our small company grow, and we look forward to helping families create lasting memories for years to come.”
The Mena/Ouachita National Forest KOA Journey is one of more than 500 open-to-the-public KOA campgrounds in the U.S. and Canada. Other brands in the KOA Family of Campgrounds include KOA Holidays, designed as the ideal base camp for the great outdoors, offering plenty of activities and amenities for every type of camper. KOA Resorts provide an abundance of staff-led activities, on-site dining, group meeting space and more.
Located at 3708 Highway 71 S in Mena, Arkansas, the campground is open year-round.
For more information, please visit the campground’s website, or call 479-394-6099. Reservations are also available by going online or using the KOA app.
