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Nature

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Water

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Facilities

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Established Camping

Irons Fork Primitive Camping

3 Reviews

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CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BY

Irons Fork Primitive Camping near Jessieville, AR, is surrounded by forested terrain with a mix of hardwoods and pines. Temperatures range from 30°F in winter to 90°F in summer. Campers can explore nearby Ouachita National Forest and Lake Ouachita for hiking and water activities.

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Location

Irons Fork Primitive Camping is located in Arkansas

Coordinates

34.68600089 N
93.37300097 W

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Connectivity

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T-Mobile
No Coverage
VerizonLTE
Some Coverage
AT&T
No Coverage
Verified by 1 user

Detours Nearby

LOCAL FAVORITES PRESENTED BY

Washita Primitive Camping Area

14 min away

COE Lake Ouachita Twin Creek

34 min away

Drive Time

Presented by

45 min from Hot Springs
1 hr 20 min from Little Rock
1 hr 56 min from Fort Smith
2 hrs 18 min from Texarkana

Connectivity

Presented by

T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More

T-Mobile
No Coverage
VerizonLTE
Some Coverage
AT&T
No Coverage
Verified by 1 user

Access

Drive-In
Park next to your site
Boat-In
Sites accessible by watercraft.

Site Types

Tent Sites
Group

Features

For Campers

Picnic Table
Phone Service
Drinking Water
Toilets
Alcohol
Pets
Fires

For Vehicles

Big Rig Friendly

Contact

General Info

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Stephanie P.

Guide

Reviewed Apr. 19, 2025

Lovely little spot

They had some recent flooding, not all sites were available. Spot #1 was right at the waters edge. Concrete/stone picnic table, grill, firepit. The trees were perfect size and spacing for a hammock. Right next to the boat ramp. Lots of people fishing. Great for kayaking. Fairly level. No garbage/dumpster on site. Some sketchy pit toilets.

Site1

Month of VisitApril

(4) View All

Izzy T.

Ranger

Reviewed Jul. 3, 2022

Obviously not a National Forest campground

Decent for what it is. Handful of sites with picnic tables and fire pits. Pit toilets on site. Heavily shaded. Ideal for tents, vans and tear drop campers. Great views of the water. Stayed one night. There were a couple of other tent campers there. Very quiet. Enough T-mobile service to find another campground.

Month of VisitMay

The P.

Traveler

Reviewed Apr. 21, 2021

Well not what I was looking for

It's a nice site with bathrooms. I was wanting very primitive, and away from ppl. Gravel toad in good condition to sight. Great boat access. If you have an rv or trailer great. I am more into staying in the woods away from all ppl. No play grounds,but not as primitive as I would like.

Month of VisitApril

(5) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

What recreational activities can visitors enjoy at Irons Fork Recreation Area?

Irons Fork Recreation Area offers several recreational opportunities centered around the lake. Fishing is popular, with many visitors seen trying their luck from the shoreline. The area has excellent boat access with a convenient boat ramp, making it easy to launch watercraft. Kayaking is particularly enjoyable on the calm waters. The heavily shaded sites with well-spaced trees provide perfect spots for hammock lounging. The peaceful setting also makes it ideal for nature watching, relaxing by the water, and enjoying the scenic views of the lake.

How do I get to Irons Fork Lake near Mena, AR?

Irons Fork Lake is accessible via a well-maintained gravel road that leads directly to the camping area and boat ramp. The road is in good condition and suitable for most vehicles, including those towing small to medium-sized boats. From Mena, AR, you'll want to follow directional signs to the recreation area. The campground is positioned right at the water's edge, with direct access to the lake. For precise directions, it's recommended to use GPS coordinates or contact the Ouachita National Forest office in Mena for the most current access information.

What amenities are available at Irons Fork Recreation Area in Arkansas?

Irons Fork Recreation Area offers basic primitive camping amenities. The sites include concrete/stone picnic tables, fire pits, and grills. Pit toilets are available for campers. The area is heavily shaded, making it comfortable during hot weather. While the campground is primitive, it does have a gravel road in good condition leading to the sites. There are no playgrounds or advanced facilities like showers or electrical hookups. T-Mobile cell service is available, though potentially limited. The campground is ideal for those seeking a simple outdoor experience with essential amenities.

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