Woolum Dispersed Area sits along the Buffalo National River within the Arkansas Ozarks, accessible via Searcy County Road 15 for easier driving conditions. This primitive camping area operates under National Park Service management and prohibits pets. Campers can choose between grassy meadow sites and spots directly on the riverbank, with most locations large enough to accommodate multiple vehicles and horse trailers.
The campground features three vault toilets, including one at the day-use parking area, and allows campfires in established rock rings. "No potable water and no trash service," notes Fred S., who found the area well-maintained during his mid-week visit. The Buffalo River provides direct water access with both rock and sand beach areas, making this spot popular with smallmouth bass anglers, kayakers, and canoeists.
Sites remain dispersed across open terrain, allowing for privacy even during busier periods. Solar charging works well in the open areas, though cell service varies by carrier. The campground connects to the Ozark Highland Trail system, attracting backpackers crossing the river. Road access requires attention to conditions, particularly on the narrower County Road 14, which can have rough patches following weather events.
This dispersed area works best for self-sufficient campers comfortable with primitive conditions, equestrian groups needing large sites, and river enthusiasts planning multi-day paddling trips.
Description
Woolum Campground is a large open field at the Woolum access to the Buffalo River near St. Joe AR. There are no amenities at Woolum. There are no designated sites. A vault toilet is available. Fees are not charged at Woolum. Woolum serves as overflow when Tyler Bend campground is full.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Dispersed CampingWoolum Dispersed Area — Buffalo National River is located in Arkansas
Coordinates
35.97031179 N
92.88051936 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 1 user
VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 3/21/26- AT&TNo CoverageVerified by 8 usersLast on 3/21/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 1 user
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 3/21/26
- AT&TNo CoverageVerified by 8 usersLast on 3/21/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
- Group
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- Toilets
- Fires
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Woolum Dispersed Area — Buffalo National River needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 51 min from Springfield, MO
- 2 hrs 5 min from Fayetteville, AR
- 2 hrs 9 min from Little Rock, AR
- 2 hrs 48 min from Fort Smith, AR
