Jeep Trail Exploration: Following the Path of the Cossatot River

The Cossatot River Jeep Ride is a series of gravel roads connected by a few pavement stretches that winds with the river from near De Queen Arkansas to the small community of Shady just south of Mena. It cuts through cattle farms, large timer company tracts and ends in the Ouachita National Forest. There are amazing views, cool swimming holes, developed campgrounds, day use areas, and remote riverside primitive campsites. It makes for a great day trip or add it to your route for a multi-day overland camping trip. I drive to the water at Ladd Bridge. Check out Coon Creek and Cossatot Reefs Parks at Gillham Lake. Navigate gravel roads in Howard County Wildlife Management Area. Tour the visitor center at Cossatot State Park. Stop at Brushy Creek Recreational Area and wind through the Ouachita National Forest on Forest Service Road 31 in my 2003 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon. There is something for everyone on this ride and since it parallels US 71, you can drive as much or as little as you want.