Poteau Mountain Wilderness

Poteau Mountain Wilderness is an 11,141-acre federally protected wilderness area in Arkansas managed by the Forest Service. It offers backcountry hiking and backpacking for visitors seeking primitive solitude away from roads and development. The landscape supports non-motorized travel only — no motors, vehicles, or mechanized equipment are permitted, and all visitors are expected to follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the wilderness character.

Access requires foot travel from trailheads outside the wilderness boundary. Spring through fall offers the most reliable conditions for backpacking trips. Visitors should be prepared for self-sufficiency: carry all water and supplies, camp only in designated or dispersed sites according to wilderness rules, and pack out everything brought in. This is genuine backcountry terrain where solitude and minimal human impact are the defining qualities.