Best Tent Camping near Casa, AR
Several dispersed tent camping options exist in the Ouachita National Forest surrounding Casa, Arkansas. Free primitive tent sites can be found along Forest Road 132 and at Brown Creek Cascade Dispersed Campsite, both offering basic backcountry camping experiences with rock fire rings but no facilities. The South Fourche campground provides established tent sites with picnic tables and vault toilets for a $5 fee, situated close to a river access point for canoes and kayaks.
Tent campers should prepare for self-sufficient camping at most locations, particularly at dispersed sites where no water, toilets, or trash services exist. The forest roads accessing these areas can be steep in places but are typically navigable by passenger vehicles in good weather. Brown Creek Road and Forest Road 132 lead to multiple dispersed tent campsites with level spots suitable for setting up tents. Sites often feature rock fire rings and access to creeks, though campers must filter all water. According to one visitor, firewood can be scarce at some locations, requiring "walking a bit to find decent wood to burn."
The tent camping experience varies between established and dispersed sites. South Fourche offers more structure with designated tent pads and maintained facilities, while dispersed areas provide greater solitude. Several tent campers mention the peaceful forest settings, particularly at the more remote sites along Forest Road 132. Many sites are shaded by pine and oak trees, making hammock camping possible at locations like Brown Creek. A review from a tent camper at the Brown Creek site noted that "the sound from the creek was soothing" and "no vehicles passed by during the night." Wildlife encounters are common, with some campers reporting hearing coyotes and various bird species during overnight stays.
