As a child growing up 13 miles from the Queen Wilhelmina State Park, I took for granted the breathtaking views and beautiful scenery that Queen Wilhelmina has to offer.

The park offers a Lodge, 40 campsites, picnic areas, hiking trails along with a laundry and store. There's also a miniature railroad that as a child we loved to ride, plus an animal park with deer, monkeys and other animals and a miniature golf course.

The Lodge is known as "Arkansas' Castle in the Clouds." It sits high on top of Rich Mountain, nearly 3,000 feet above sea level. The Lodge that is there now is the third inn built. The first was opened in 1898 by the Kansas City, Pittsburg & Gulf Railroad. It was built as a resort for the passengers and since the Dutch largely financed the railroad, the inn was named in honor the the Netherlands Queen Wilhelmina. Years later a second inn was built to replace the first and once again in 1975, which is the inn you'll see today. Even though the inn was made to be more modern you still find the elegance and romantic atmoshere of the original Queen Wilhemina Inn.

I think spring is my favorite season at Queen Wilhemina because of the gorgeous wildflowers and beautiful scenery. The scenic drive to the park is breathtaking as you drive along the Quachita National Forest. Anyone who enjoys hiking, camping, outdoors or sightseeing is in for a treat.


Queen Wilhelmina State Park is located 13 miles northwest of Mena, Arkansas on Highway 88. For more information on visiting or making reservations at the Lodge you can call 1-800-264-2477. Its a getaway you'll never forget!






Recommended: Yes