Dispersed tent camping near Casa, Arkansas offers primitive sites across the Ouachita National Forest. Most locations provide basic accommodations without drinking water or restroom facilities. The area features a mix of established campgrounds with modest amenities and remote dispersed sites accessible via forest roads. Elevation in this region ranges from 600-2,300 feet with mixed pine-hardwood forests dominating the landscape.
What to do
Fishing access points: The COE Nimrod Lake Carter Cove Campground offers "great fishing on a mostly shallow lake that keeps the personal watercraft and skiers away," according to Jason W., making it ideal for anglers seeking quieter waters.
Creek exploration: Brown Creek Road has multiple water features to explore. As Arthur S. notes about Brown Creek Cascade Dispersed Campsite: "Nice stone camp fire circle, good flat spot for my tent, which is a four person."
Hiking opportunities: The Ouachita Trail provides extensive hiking near several campsites. Fred S. mentions that the Dispersed FR132 Ouachita National Forest site has "access to the Ouachita National Recreation Trail located nearby," perfect for day hiking from camp.
What campers like
Secluded forest settings: The best tent camping near Casa, Arkansas often provides isolation. Sophia W. describes her FR132 experience: "Second spot was amazing—maybe 5-10 miles back of I had to guess. There are a few forest service roads back here so pay attention to the signs."
Water features: Several campers mention enjoying the natural water sounds. Fred S. notes that at Fourche Mountain Campground: "There is no recreation in this recreation area; no water access, no hiking trails," but other reviewers appreciate the nearby streams at various sites.
Wildlife encounters: Campers report diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. Olivia M. recalls her stay at Delaware Park: "You could hear coyotes going crazy trying to get to a cow. The farm dog wasn't having it and kept them away during the night."
What you should know
Road conditions: Forest access roads vary in quality. Sophia W. advises about FR132: "Roads are steep further back but well covered with gravel and very few large rocks, so you should be okay with most cars in good weather."
Facility limitations: Most dispersed sites lack amenities. According to Ethan K. at South Fourche: "It has a small mens and womens bathroom. Each site has a picnic table and a metal fire pit with a grate."
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts site accessibility. Arthur S. mentions firewood challenges: "Hard to find decent wood to burn, had to walk a bit to find," which can be especially true during wet seasons.
Noise factors: Highway proximity affects some sites. Fred S. reports about Fourche Mountain: "Lots of highway noise from nearby Hwy 27, but not too bad overnight."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Some camping areas near Casa offer water recreation. Jason W. notes that Carter Cove has a "sandy beach to swim or lay out in the sun," providing a family-friendly activity.
Difficulty finding sites: When tent camping near Casa with children, allocate extra time for site selection. Sophia W. advises: "Not sure how many sites are back here total. Expect to drive a ways between spots."
Wildlife awareness: Prepare children for wildlife encounters. Delaware Park campers report hearing various animal sounds throughout the night, which might require explanation for younger campers.
Bathroom preparation: Limited facilities require planning. Alex B. appreciates that Fourche Mountain has "vaulted toilets (yay!)" but many other sites have no restroom facilities, requiring appropriate supplies for children.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate only smaller rigs. Jack W. notes about Carter Cove: "The sites are a little tight for larger rigs to maneuver and many sites don't have water."
Hookup availability: Electric connections may require extra equipment. Jack continues: "The water connections were kind of far from the site so had to use longer hose. Did have 50 amp power though."
Connectivity challenges: Cell service varies widely across camping areas. Jack W. mentions: "No cell service or wifi. Had to walk to the dam to get it, but that can be a good thing when camping."
