Dispersed camping sites near Alma, Arkansas sit primarily within the Ozark National Forest at elevations ranging from 800 to 1,500 feet. This region experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and mild winters that occasionally drop below freezing. Most dispersed sites require campers to be entirely self-sufficient, with several locations offering creek access for water filtration during wetter months of spring and fall.
What to do
Hiking trails: The Morgan Mtn Rd/Spy Rock Dispersed area provides access to multiple trails through the Ozarks. "Spy rock is gorgeous, the trail is a little rough but totally worth it. Trail head is on the right about a mile past camp," notes one camper at Morgan Mtn Rd/Spy Rock Dispersed.
Creek exploration: Jack Creek area offers opportunities for wading and fishing based on seasonal water levels. "This is a large wooded dispersed campsite that has a short path down to Jack Creek. Depending on the water level, fishing and wading are possible at the creek," according to a visitor at Jack Creek Dispersed.
Wildlife observation: The forests around dispersed sites provide habitat for deer, wild turkeys, and numerous bird species. Cane Creek Recreation Area offers excellent wildlife viewing, especially at night. One camper mentions: "if you use a flashlight, you WILL see eyeballs looking back at you from the other side of the water."
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Many dispersed sites offer separation from other campers. At Lookout Tower Road, visitors appreciate that there are "multiple spots with plenty of room and not many bugs. Cell signal was strong in many places."
Mountain views: Sites along Morgan Mountain Road provide scenic vistas, particularly during winter when foliage doesn't obstruct sightlines. "A downed tree blocks part of the view, but still has a beautiful panoramic view of the surrounding mountains," reports one visitor.
Night skies: Free camping near Alma offers dark sky viewing opportunities with minimal light pollution. At Cane Creek Recreation Area, campers note: "Be sure to catch the sunset here. This has a beautiful setting even though it has been basically abandoned by the COE."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many dispersed sites require careful navigation on forest roads. At Near Devils Den, "The entryways are a little tight for vehicles, but I made it in my sprinter van so everything else should be just fine." However, seasonal changes affect road quality significantly.
Facility limitations: No dispersed sites near Alma provide maintained facilities. For River Ridge Campground, a recent policy change now requires payment: "Great spot, but this is either 'no longer' free land (as the resident stated) or it never was. I paid $10 for the night, just FYI."
Cell service variability: Connectivity ranges widely across dispersed areas. At Morgan Mountain Road, "T-Mobile has anywhere from one bar LTE to three bars of 5G extended to 2 bars 5G here. I was able to stream video on my phone before bedtime each night."
Weather considerations: Ozark storms can develop rapidly with intense precipitation. At Cane Creek, visitors advise to "Have a weather app, if you're not local storms here are fast to arrive and violent compared to other parts of the country."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose areas with level ground and minimal underbrush for easier tent setup. Forest Service Road 82 provides family-friendly options with "3-4 spots, all about 1-2 miles in. Easy access to the Redding Recreation Area for fishing/swimming, and the Spy Rock Trail."
Water access: Plan water needs carefully during summer months when creeks may run low. Bring sufficient drinking water for the duration of your stay, with extra for washing and cooking.
Wildlife awareness: Teach children about local wildlife safety. Forest Service Rd 82 Dispersed receives positive reviews for having "not many bugs" while providing access to nature observation opportunities.
Day trip options: Position your camp near interesting day excursions. One visitor to Morgan Mountain notes: "Spy Rock overlook is down the road and the view is spectacular. There are also nearby waterfalls to hike to."
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: Most forest roads leading to dispersed sites accommodate smaller RVs but present challenges for longer vehicles. At Lookout Tower Road, one RVer reports: "I managed to get our 40 foot Bluebird Bus up here. Nice spot well maintained."
Leveling challenges: Bring additional leveling equipment as many sites feature uneven terrain. A camper at Morgan Mountain Road notes: "the site is mostly level - slopes downhill a little toward the ridge. Camping rigs may need leveling depending on the parking spot."
Self-containment: Dispersed camping near Alma requires complete self-sufficiency. At Cane Creek Recreation Area, a visitor advises: "Do not. I repeat DO NOT think you can use the pit toilets here. Be self contained and you'll be fine."
Site access: Scout potential camping locations before committing to entry with larger vehicles. "Any car should be fine on the gravel road, just go steady on the way up!" notes one visitor describing Forest Service Rd 82.
