Dispersed camping opportunities exist throughout the Ouachita National Forest near Boles, Arkansas, at elevations ranging from 800-2,400 feet. The region's mixed hardwood and pine forests provide natural shade during summer months when temperatures often exceed 90°F. Winter visitors should prepare for overnight temperatures that can drop below freezing from December through February.
What to do
Creek exploration: Jack Creek Road Dispersed area offers water-based recreation opportunities beyond just camping. "There is nothing special about this campsite; no recreation, such as hiking trails, in the immediate vicinity. Jack Creek Recreation Area and the Sugar Creek hiking trail are a short drive away," notes camper Fred S. in his review of the Jack Creek Road Dispersed site.
Shooting range access: Some camping areas provide proximity to recreational shooting facilities. The Jack Creek Pull Thru Dispersed site is "Located 2 miles past the entrance of the Jack Creek Recreation Area, and 1/3rd mile past the turn off to the shooting range," according to a recent visitor. This makes Jack Creek Rd Pull Thru Dispersed convenient for those interested in target practice during their camping trip.
River activities: The Kiamichi River confluence area provides unique water recreation possibilities. One camper at Pigeon Creek Dispersed described the setting as "You're surrounded by trees, moss and running blue mountain spring water. What's not to love?" Sites near river junctions typically offer better fishing opportunities and deeper swimming holes during summer months.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Different sites offer varying degrees of seclusion. While many dispersed areas provide isolation, some campers prefer specific locations. At the County Road D1590 Dispersed site, Wesley H. noted it was "Definitely isolated, kind of creepy at night" but still accessible enough for larger vehicles.
Water access: Creek proximity ranks high on camper priorities. The small tracks leading to water features are often worth navigating for the payoff. One camper at Jack Creek Dispersed described finding "a large wooded dispersed campsite that has a short path down to Jack Creek" where "fishing and wading are possible at the creek" depending on water levels.
Open spaces: Some sites feature clearings that provide both camping room and solar charging opportunities. Fred S. noted that at one location, "Solar charging is possible in an open field at the entrance of the site." These natural clearings also provide stargazing opportunities when weather permits.
What you should know
Road conditions: Forest roads in this region require careful navigation and appropriate vehicles. The Girard Rd/Forest Road 20 Dispersed site reviewer describes the access as "a maintained gravel/dirt forest road. This road is mostly a single track - narrow with some minor erosion in a few places. A lifted 4x4 vehicle is NOT needed to drive to the site."
Fire restrictions: While most dispersed sites contain established fire rings, seasonal fire restrictions may apply. Check current Forest Service regulations before planning campfires, particularly during summer drought conditions. Sites typically feature "a clean rock fire ring" as mentioned in reviews.
Trash management: Pack out all waste as no services exist in dispersed areas. Some locations suffer from previous visitor neglect. One camper at Pigeon Creek Dispersed observed, "The river and creek merging was so beautiful! It was a beautiful drive there. But whoever was there before me trashed it out. It's sad."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose locations with natural play features for children. Creek access provides built-in entertainment, but verify water levels and current speeds before allowing swimming. Small pools and shallow creek beds work best for younger children.
Wildlife awareness: The Ouachita forests contain black bears, coyotes, and venomous snakes. Store food properly and teach children appropriate wildlife safety protocols. Checking sleeping areas for scorpions and spiders before setting up tents reduces unwelcome encounters.
Navigation markers: Forest roads can look similar, particularly at night or in foggy conditions. One camper at Turner Creek Road described it as "Very secluded spot no amenities just a rock fire ring Very peaceful," but seclusion can mean difficulty finding your way back after day trips. Consider leaving recognizable markers at key turnoffs.
Tips from RVers
Backing techniques: Several dispersed camping areas require specific parking approaches. At Blue Knob Road in Ouachita National Forest, Carlos P. advises, "I have a CDL and back stuff all day. Don't try to pull in. Back in off the Buck Mountain."
Size limitations: Forest roads typically accommodate smaller RVs better than large ones. County Road D1590 can handle moderate-sized vehicles according to Wesley H., who "Took our class c down the narrow road. Pretty good mostly rock. Camp site was clean." Most sites recommend nothing larger than 30-foot Class C motorhomes.
Leveling challenges: Many dispersed sites feature uneven terrain requiring leveling blocks or careful positioning. Look for clearing edges where previous campers have created more level spots through repeated use. Arriving early provides more options for finding optimal parking positions.
