Free Camping Collection

Dispersed Camping

Middle Fork Dispersed Site AR Ozarks

1 Review

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USDA Forest Service

If you are one of those folks who prefers a different, more rugged camp experience, primitive camping is allowed almost anywhere in the Ozark-St. Francis National Forests unless there is a sign stating otherwise, or it is a wildlife food plot. Located throughout the Forests are areas that have been campsites for many years. These are located along roadsides, trails, mountain tops, or near streams. Camping at dispersed locations have additional responsibilities: "Leave No Trace" so others can have a similar backcountry experience, pack out any trash or litter, scatter campfire ash around so it doesn't pile up, and leave the area better than you found it.

The Ozarks are known for the clear mountain streams, but please filter water before drinking! Beware of stream crossings after heavy rains.

Please read the Dispersed Camping guidelines before heading out: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/osfnf/recreation/?cid=fseprd623199

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Fred S.

Legend

Reviewed May. 26, 2022

Creekside Dispersed Site, Middle Fork Illinois Bayou

Large clearing along the Middle Fork of the Illinois Bayou. Located on Middle Fork Road, about a 1/4 mile in from AR Hwy 27, near Hector, AR. The site is on national forest land and appears to be popular. It's large enough for 3 car/truck/campervan rigs. Area is level for rigs & tents, although the ground is mostly hard buried gravel - maybe uncomfortable to sleep on without pads. Three large puddles on the site. Three ways to enter the site from Middle Fork Road. Middle Fork Rd itself can easily accommodate 2wd passenger vehicles. Other dispersed sites further down the road along the creek. The site is not pristine, but it's nice to camp close to the bayou. Very peaceful, but there is occasional faint truck noise from Hwy 27. A half dozen or so vehicles passed by, some were residents who live further down the road. No facilities; need to bring your own water. No trash pickup; pack in, pack out.

Sitedispersed

Month of VisitJune