Collier Springs: A CCC Legacy in the Ouachitas
Escape to Collier Springs in Ouachita National Forest: a historic picnic spot with a natural spring and CCC-built shelter near Mt. Ida, Arkansas.
4.8
Discover Collier Springs, a serene picnic area in the Ouachita National Forest, featuring a historic stone shelter built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1939. Enjoy the natural spring, shady picnic spots, and a peaceful escape into nature.
A brief summary to Collier Springs
- Mt Ida, Arkansas, 71957, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Bring your own picnic supplies; there are limited facilities beyond the shelter and vault toilet.
- Explore the surrounding Ouachita National Forest for hiking and other outdoor activities.
- Visit in spring or fall for the best weather and to avoid the summer heat.
Getting There
-
Driving
From Mt. Ida, take Highway 270 East. Turn south onto Logan Gap Road, then right onto Forest Service Road 177. Follow the brown Forest Service signs to Collier Springs. There is no fee to enter the picnic area. Parking is available at the site.
Discover more about Collier Springs
Collier Springs is a tranquil picnic area nestled within the Ouachita National Forest, offering a refreshing escape into nature. Located a few miles northeast of Norman, Arkansas, this spot is known for its natural spring and a unique shelter constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in 1939.
The highlight of Collier Springs is the rectangular, open-air stone shelter. Built by CCC Company 741, the shelter features stone columns supporting hewn log beams and a gable roof. This structure not only provides a shady spot for picnicking but also serves as a protective cover for the spring itself, with water flowing through a pipe into the nearby Collier Creek. Stone benches line the east and north sides, offering seating for visitors.
Today, Collier Springs remains much as it did when it was first built, providing a peaceful retreat for visitors. The area includes a vault toilet and a small parking area. The natural setting, coupled with the historic shelter, makes Collier Springs a special place to relax and appreciate the beauty of the Ouachita National Forest.
