Iron Mountain Natural Area is located within the Athens Plateau subdivision of the Ouachita Mountains. The area is bisected by Paul Branch, a small, intermittent stream which defines the valley between the northern and southern ridges. The natural area preserves a typical example of the upland pine-oak-hickory forests of the Ouachita Mountains and provides protected habitat for the southern red-backed salamander, a regional endemic.

From Mena, travel approximately 7.1 miles southwest on U.S. Highway 71 through and beyond Potter Junction. Turn right on County Road 168 and travel 0.2 mile to fork. Turn right on County Road 169 and travel 0.3 mile to parking area on right. For additional parking, continue 0.1 mile on County Road 169, continue traveling west on a two track for 0.2 mile (keeping to the right as road splits) to the overflow parking area.

Specific types of hunting are allowed on this natural area. For details, see the Iron Mountain Natural Area WMA listing in the current Arkansas Hunting Guidebook. Take all necessary safety precautions when visiting this area.