Dispersed camping opportunities in the Ouachita National Forest surrounding Caddo Gap, Arkansas extend beyond the well-known areas. Additional primitive sites can be found at Irons Fork, which sits at approximately 1,100 feet elevation along the southern slopes of the Ouachita Mountains. Rustic camping near Caddo Gap requires self-sufficiency as most sites have minimal development. Forest roads in this region typically close during periods of heavy rainfall due to flash flood risks.
What to do
Hiking accessible trails: The area offers direct access to numerous hiking opportunities from dispersed sites. One camper at Forest Service RD 132 Ouachita National Forest noted, "Large site if you are sleeping on the ground bring plenty of padding it is rocky and no very flat. If you are in a rooftop there are plenty of rocks to level up on. Great views."
Wildlife observation: The Ouachita forests support diverse wildlife including deer, turkey, and various bird species. At Gladstone Forest Rd dispersed site, a visitor mentioned, "Should be good for an overnight stay while exploring the Forest Road 11 area of the Ouachitas."
River activities: Several sites provide creek access for swimming during summer months. A camper at Irons Fork shared, "We were the only campers had a great spot on the water for a morning shower."
What campers like
Ridge-top views: Many dispersed sites sit on elevated positions providing scenic vistas. A visitor to Forest Service RD 153 Ouachita National Forest reported, "This campsite has amazing 360 sunsets and sunrises. A bit rocky for tent campers but should have no trouble finding a spot for a 4 man tent."
Minimal crowding: Low visitor density creates opportunities for solitude even during peak seasons. At Mena Arkansas, a camper described it simply as a "Good secluded spot for Privacy."
Natural swimming options: Creek-side sites offer natural swimming holes during warmer months. An Irons Fork visitor commented, "The place was beautiful and had plenty of lake access points too. I went in mid July so it was hot and humid but I was able to swim a bit to help that."
What you should know
Security considerations: Some remote areas have experienced theft issues. One camper at Irons Fork reported, "people before us had definitely left some trash around tho. went to bed no problems then heard a big loud pickup truck w a trailer pull up at 5am... and come to find they STOLE OUR PADLOCKED COOLER."
Variable road conditions: Forest road quality changes seasonally and after weather events. A recent visitor to Turner Creek Road noted their experience was "Very secluded spot no amenities just a rock fire ring. Very peaceful."
Facility limitations: Even sites with toilet facilities may have maintenance issues. An Irons Fork visitor cautioned, "I used my own pop up toilet as there's is not close to being clean. It is bear country and others trash was gone through by wildlife in the bathroom."
Tips for camping with families
Rock-based activities: Many sites feature rocky terrain that can engage children. At Forest Service RD 132, one visitor observed there was "a fire pit, prepared firewood, and a nice stump to chop more on. Very isolated, didn't see any cars past 7 pm."
Wildlife safety: Bear activity requires proper food storage techniques. A camper at Irons Fork advised, "It is black bear country, so just be smart about your waste and food storage."
Limited communications: Cell coverage varies significantly between sites. At North Fork Creek Rd (FR779) Dispersed, a camper reported, "There was no T-Mobile cell service at this site. I enjoyed camping here; beautiful spot and very peaceful."
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Many sites require significant leveling for RVs. At Forest Service RD 153, a visitor noted, "The site was not quite level, but workable. Fits one rig, truck camper and smaller."
Site capacity limitations: Most areas accommodate small to medium vehicles only. At Forest Service RD 132, a camper found, "Ample room for large van and many tents. Beautiful view from atop the mountain!"
Seasonal accessibility: Some roads become impassable for RVs after rainfall. A recent visitor to Forest Service RD 153 warned, "We couldn't even get to the campsite in our AWD Subaru Outback. There are drainage pipes exposed on the road."
