Montgomery County - Crystal Country & Outdoor Paradise

Small-Town Charm

Mount Ida - A mecca for rock hounds and a crossroads community to Lake Ouachita.

Norman - Located on the Caddo River and a gateway to Little Missouri Falls, Albert Pike Recreation Area, and Winding Stairs.

Pine Ridge - Home of the Lum and Abner Museum and Jot 'Em Down Store, listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Ouachita National Forest

The South's oldest and largest national forest covers most of the county. Fall foliage is abundant, and driving tours are a popular pastime during the fall color season in October and November. Mountains, ridges, lakes, and streams create a paradise for sportsmen and nature lovers alike. Hiking trails and campgrounds are in abundance. Developed campgrounds are offered by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. For more information on our developed campgrounds, contact the U.S. Forest Service (870) 867-2101.

Womble Trail

The Womble Trial includes thirty-eight miles of single track hiking or mountain biking trail. Sanctioned races are held in May.

Lake Ouachita Pleasures

At 49,000 acres, Lake Ouachita is the state's largest man-made lake and one of the cleanest lakes in the U.S., according to the EPA. Come enjoy scuba diving, skiing, sailing, camping and hiking. The Geo-Float Trail, a self-guided tour for boaters, showcases many of Lake Ouachita's unique geological formations. Visitors may choose from a variety of accommodations, from luxury lakeview condominiums to rustic cabins, or inexpensive motel offerings.

World's Quartz Crystal Capital

Montgomery County is loaded with quartz crystals and rock shops are plentiful. Several mines offer digging for a small fee. Enjoy the Quartz, Quiltz and Craftz Festival and World Championship Crystal Dig in Mount Ida each fall. Mount Ida also hosts Charley Weaver Day each spring. Winter visitors can enjoy in Eagle Awareness programs on Lake Ouachita.

Winding Stairs

The name refers to 1,700 acres along the Little Missouri River. Winding Stairs Trail, closed to motorized vehicles, provides scenic beauty, cascading falls, and land fishing.

Albert Pike Recreation Area

The Ole Swimmin' Hole charm is irresistible at this natural pool in the Little Missouri River. The fishing is great, and there are 46 camping units. The 6.3-mile hiking trail from the recreation area to Little Missouri Falls takes you to yet another beautiful spot for swimming and fishing. This area is about an hour's drive south of Mount Ida.

Cool Canoeing

The Ouachita and Caddo Rivers are two of the best "family outing" rivers in the state, ideal for scenic floating with canoes and rafts. Canoe outfitters offer a variety of services on both rivers for the experienced or beginner. Guides are available year-round for smallmouth bass fishing and other gamefish action.

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