Dispersed camping spots near Cleveland, Arkansas primarily sit within Ozark National Forest at elevations between 800-2,000 feet. The area receives about 45 inches of annual rainfall, creating seasonal waterfalls and changing water levels in Brock Creek Lake and Illinois Bayou. Trails and camping access points can become muddy after rains, with summer temperatures averaging 85-95°F during peak camping months.
What to do
Hiking trails: Petit Jean State Park offers trails rated from easy to difficult. "I hiked down to the Cedar Falls trail to see the falls. The video is of the roaring falls. There is not typically so much flow. We were lucky! We spent most of our days hiking the many trails the park is known for," reports Jill B.
Fishing opportunities: The Illinois Bayou and Brock Creek Lake provide good fishing during spring and fall. At Cherokee Park, visitors report "We have seen quite a bit of wildlife including an up close encounter with a bald eagle, several blue herons, and a few river otter sightings."
Swimming and paddling: Several locations offer water recreation during warmer months. "A pool at the top of an expensive overlook which ultimately leads down to a gorgeous waterfall. That same lodge has a fully functioning bar and restaurant attached to it," notes Elise A. about Petit Jean State Park's unique amenities.
What campers like
Stone shelters: Bayou Bluff Point of Interest features historic structures with built-in fireplaces. "The stone buildings are so nice to set up somewhat out of the weather and have functional fireplaces. The walk to the river is very easy," says valerie about this unique camping option.
Lake views: Many sites offer water views at various elevations. "We ended up in site #30. It had a beautiful view of the lake. It's was also a plus to have full hookups including 50 amp service and sewer. So unusual for a state park," notes Jill B. about their experience at Petit Jean State Park.
Privacy levels: Sites range from exposed to secluded based on tree coverage. "The sites in C & D appeared to be a little smaller. I noticed several sites in B & C were uneven from roots pushing the asphalt up. Beware!" warns Shana D. about selecting the right site for your needs.
What you should know
Road access challenges: Many forest roads require careful navigation. At Brock Creek Lake View Dispersed, "Access to the site from Charleston Road is on a 400 foot long narrow dirt track; pinstripping is possible." This is common throughout the area.
Seasonal closures and conditions: Water levels and access vary throughout the year. "The lake was drained at the time of my visit; otherwise, it's a really nice view," reports Fred S. about Brock Creek Lake.
Limited amenities at dispersed sites: Most primitive sites lack facilities. At Tackett Mountain Road Dispersed, "This is a small dispersed campsite with a level dirt surface, just big enough to accommodate one vehicle - truck camper and smaller. Tent and hammock camping is possible."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly parks: Woolly Hollow State Park receives high marks from families. "The state park ranger had a weekend full of planned events from a box turtle demo to a sand castle competition. The best part was the guided hike with Master Naturalist group of AR. They put our daughter right up front and identified every plant and tree we passed," shares Kelci C.
Multi-activity locations: Seek parks with diverse offerings. "Wooly Hollow has 30 campsites with power, water, and sewer hookups. The park offers hiking, swimming and rentals paddle boats," notes Jason B.
Bathroom considerations: Facilities vary widely between established campgrounds and dispersed sites. "The bathhouses were clean, the snack bar was great, the camp spots were roomy," says Kelci C. about Woolly Hollow State Park, making it suitable for families needing more amenities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Not all campgrounds accommodate big rigs. At Toad Suck, "Loop A seems for smaller campers, and very unlevel. Loop C seems a bit more spaced out. There are actually two entrances to the park, recommend the second one as it has less sharp curves."
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are limited but available. "Areas A and B can accommodate large rigs and towables," notes Fred S. about Petit Jean State Park, while adding that Areas C and D are more suitable for "a truck camper and smaller."
Leveling needs: Many sites require equipment for leveling. "Many sites are unlevel and require significant leveling chocks to get it truly level," warns Ryan S. about Petit Jean State Park's B loop, a common challenge throughout the region's camping areas.
