State Parks and National Parks

Queen Wilhelmina State Park

Located on the Talimena Scenic Drive in western Arkansas, 13 miles from the town of Mena, Queen Wilhelmina State Park is one of the state's most scenic.

The first lodge at the site, built in 1897 by the Kansas City, Pittsburg & Gulf Railroad, was designed as an unusual retreat for passengers on the railroad line. The lodge became known as the "Castle in the Sky."

Because the railroad itself was largely financed by Dutch interests, the new resort was named in honor of Holland's young Queen Wilhelmina. A royal suite was even set aside for her in the vain hope that she would visit.

The new lodge, built when the second lodge was destroyed by fire in 1973, offers beautiful views of the Ouachita Mountains.

There are also 41 campsites at the park. Campers must register at the lodge before occupying a campsite.

The park's tree-shaded picnic areas offer scenic views of the mountains. The Ouachita National Hiking Trail passes through the park and other hiking trails are nearby.

Photo credits in order: Photo by A.C. Haralson, courtesy of Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism. Courtesy of Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism. Photo by A.C. Haralson, courtesy of Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism.