Dispersed camping opportunities surround Blue Mountain in the Ouachita and Ozark National Forests of western Arkansas. The region features a mix of forested mountains, ridgelines with elevations reaching 2,600 feet, and numerous creeks flowing through the valleys. Camping sites can be found along various forest roads throughout both national forests, with seasonal considerations important as summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F while winter nights often drop below freezing.
What to do
Fishing at Spring Lake: Spring Lake in the Ozark National Forest offers bank fishing opportunities for dispersed campers. "The site offers a beautiful view of the lake. Easy walking access to the bank for fishing," notes Fred S. about the Spring Lake FR96001F Dispersed area.
Creek exploration: Many dispersed sites provide access to small creeks for wading and cooling off during hot weather. At Jack Creek Dispersed, "Depending on the water level, fishing and wading are possible at the creek," according to a recent visitor.
Scenic drives: The forest roads themselves offer recreational opportunities. As Jeff P. describes near Fourche Mountain, "This section of the National Forest offers two hours gravel road through the forest... On the path offers hidden creek waterfalls, lots of one way bridge and a serenity drive."
What campers like
Creek sounds: Campers appreciate sites near flowing water for the natural soundscape. At Hogan Creek Dispersed, "sounds of the creek can be head at this site. There is a path along the creek behind the campsite; it eventually provides access down hill to the creek," according to Fred S.
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting provides opportunities to observe local wildlife. At Cane Creek Recreation Area, one camper warns, "be aware if you use a flashlight, you WILL see eyeballs looking back at you from the other side of the water."
Cellular connectivity: Some sites offer surprisingly good connectivity. At Girard Rd/Forest Road 20 Dispersed, a camper reports, "Received a strong T-Mobile 5G signal here," which contrasts with many other dispersed sites in the region that lack service.
What you should know
Site variability: Dispersed sites vary greatly in size, privacy, and amenities. At Eickleberry Rd Dispersed, "Level dirt camping area that loops around a dead tree. The site is at the beginning of Forest Road 96019A, a very short distance off of Eickleberry Road (FR 1613). Can accomodate up to 3 SUVs, campervans or rigs with RTT."
Vehicle considerations: Some sites require navigating unmaintained roads. At Jack Creek Road Dispersed, "Jack Creek Road is a mixed dirt/gravel road, wider than a single track; it is well maintained with some minor erosion in a few places."
Local recreation: Free camping near Blue Mountain provides access to various recreational opportunities. Near Girard Rd/Forest Road 20 Dispersed, a reviewer noted, "This area has a few nice swimming holes and hiking trails which one can drive to. OHV recreation is also possible in the area."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose sites with good separation from active OHV trails when camping with children. At Buzzards Rock Dispersed, one camper warns, "The site is surrounded by OHV trails resulting in noise. There was plenty of OHV activity here during our mid-week stay."
Weather awareness: Arkansas storms can develop quickly, especially in summer. A camper at Cane Creek Recreation Area advises, "Have a weather app, if you're not local storms here are fast to arrive and violent compared to other parts of the country."
Hunting seasons: Be cautious during hunting seasons with children. Near Fourche Mountain, a camper observed, "Word of advice, best to stay away during hunting season as we spotted over ten deer hunters in the area in a single day; a hunting paradise as well."
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Many dispersed sites around Blue Mountain require leveling equipment. At Jack Creek Rd Pull Thru Dispersed, "The site can easily accommodate 2 vehicles, truck camper size and smaller, parked one behind the other. The site is shaded with a level dirt surface."
Solar considerations: Some sites offer limited solar exposure for those relying on solar power. At Girard Rd/Forest Road 20, a camper notes it's "mostly shaded, although solar recharging may be possible during the afternoon with solar panels being placed on the access track in front of the site."
Site privacy: RVers seeking more privacy should look for sites set back from main forest roads. At Hogan Creek Dispersed, "This is a secluded spot which can not be easily seen from CR133/FR146. Backing your vehicle into the site is best."
