Best Dispersed Camping near Compton, AR
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Best Dispersed Sites Near Compton, Arkansas (22)
1. Sam's Throne Recreation Area
16 Reviews•31 Photos•528 SavesMount Judea, Arkansas- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Dispersed
- Toilets
- Alcohol
2. Woolum Dispersed Area — Buffalo National River
6 Reviews•23 Photos•161 SavesSt. Joe, ArkansasWoolum Campground is a large open field at the Woolum access to the Buffalo River near St. Joe AR. There are no amenities at Woolum. There are no designated sites. A vault toilet is available. Fees are not charged at Woolum. Woolum serves as overflow when Tyler Bend campground is full.
- Fires
- Dispersed
- Toilets
5. Forest Service Rd 82 Dispersed
1 Review•1 Photo•49 SavesSt. Paul, Arkansas- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- RVs
- Tents
6. Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area
4 Reviews•7 Photos•121 SavesBradleyville, MissouriHercules Glades Wilderness Area is 12,413 acres of the most scenic and unique country in the Midwest. Its combination of open grassland, forested knobs, steep rocky hillsides, and narrow drainages offers unusual beauty and a measure of solitude within easy reach of wilderness lovers. The area is characterized by shallow droughty soils and limestone rock outcroppings. Eastern red cedar and oak trees are interspersed with open glades supporting native tall prairie grasses. Redbud and dogwood provide beautiful spring flowers, while smoke tree and maple put on vivid fall colors. A variety of wildlife species live within the Hercules Glades including white-tailed deer, raccoons rabbits, squirrels, turkey, quail, songbirds, lizards and snakes. Copperheads and rattlesnakes may be encountered. Roadrunners, collared lizards, tarantulas, wild hogs and black bears are some of the more uncommon wildlife residents. Limit your party size to 10 persons. No camping within 100 feet of trails, water sources and other camps.Practice Leave No Trace outdoor ethics; Never tie stock directly to trees. No motorized or mechanized equipment allowed. Trails: From the trailheads there is 32 miles of maintained trails which follows along open glades, forested ridgetops and Long Creek, the primary drainage of the area. Cross country hiking in other parts of the area is allowed. Key attractions along the trail include Long Creek Falls, panoramic views of the Ozarks countryside, and a variety of native communities including open limestone glades and mixed forests. Rating: More Difficult to Most Difficult with steep terrain, stream crossings, sparsely marked trail, and elevations from 600 to 1200 feet. Length: 32 miles Best Seasons: Fall, winter, and spring. Leave No Trace: Pack out what you pack in. Restrictions: Foot and Horse only. Safety: No drinking water is available at parking areas or along the trail; bring what you will need, or be prepared to sterilize water you find. During temperate months, be prepared for biting insects, poison ivy and high temperatures. Be advised of hunting seasons. Avoid using the trail during excessively wet periods. Surface Type: Unsurfaced, native material.
- Pets
- Fires
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
8. FR1802A, Meadows Knob Rd Dispersed
1 Review•7 Photos•1 SaveHagarville, Arkansas- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
9. Ozark National Forest - Dispersed Camping
1 Review•22 SavesOzone, Arkansas- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Dispersed
- Trash
- Picnic Table
10. Sugar Camp Lookout Tower Dispersed Area
1 Review•2 Photos•14 SavesEagle Rock, MissouriYou can not camp in the tower - it is closed off - but there is area around the tower for off grid primitive camping.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Dispersed
Recent Dispersed Reviews near Compton, Arkansas
41 Reviews of 22 Compton Campgrounds
Fred S.
Legend
Group Dispersed, Charleston Road, Ozark NF, AR
Large Group Dispersed Camping
Coordinates: 35.50873, -92.81549. Group dispersed site located less than a 1/4-mile south of the Zing Trailhead on Charleston Road. Charleston Road is a wide, well maintained gravel road located in a popular national forest OHV area. This dispersed site is a level with a dirt and grass surface. The site can accomodate multiple vehicles; tent camping is possible. There is a large rock fire ring at the rear of the site. The site is open with little shade, making recharging with solar panels possible. Other than accommodating a group of OHV and offroad enthusiasts, and stargazing at night, there is nothing remarkable about this campsite.
- Fred S.Legend
FR1802A, Meadows Knob Rd Dispersed
Secluded, Light Usage, Dispersed Camping in the Ozarks
Coordinates: 35.58695,-93.20723. Camped here Dec 29, 2024. Set well off of Meadows Knob Rd. Expect pinstriping along the access track to this secluded dispersed campsite. FR1802A toward the site has some erosion; low clearance vehicles may high center in one or two spots. The main forest road into this part of the Ozark National Forest is okay. The campsite is in open area, located in an old clear cut area. There is a partial view of the distant mountains. The site is a level, dirt surface. Not a large site; okay for one rig. Tent camping possible. No nearby mature trees for hammock camping. The site is overgrown with grass and weeds; a weed whacker is needed to clear the rock fire ring. There is a spot on the ground where a previous campfire was made. Good AT&T and T-Mobile 5G service. No shade; access to Starlink is possible. No hiking trails, although there is a 2-track for hiking that leads down into Graves Creek Canyon and some unnamed waterfalls. The hike along this trck is nice. This is not a pretty dispersed site, but it is well off of the main forest road; very private. Access to the site may be difficult for some vehicles. High clearance 4x4 vehicles should have no problems.
- Fred S.Legend
Austin Trailhead Dispersed, Wilderness Trail Rd, Ozark NF, AR
Dispersed camping convenient to OHV/multi-use national forest trails
Not sure if the pin location is correct, so here are the exact coordinates: 35.53654, -92.80322. Small dispersed campsite just off Wilderness Trail Road. Wilderness Trail Road is a wide gravel country road located in a popular national forest OHV area. More specifically, the site is located on multi-use/OHV trail Brock Creek #42, Forest Road 2321 - just a few hundred feet south of Wilderness Trail (not in the trailhead parking lot, where camping is not allowed). Its a small, level dirt site, mostly shaded in a small clearing in the trees, close to the track - not private. It has a small rock fire ring. Tent camping is possible. It's a pull-in site which can accommodate one vehicle - truck camper and smaller. Except for being convenient to OHV trails, there is nothing remarkable about this dispersed site.
- Fred S.Legend
Middle Fork Dispersed Site AR Ozarks
Creekside Dispersed Site, Middle Fork Illinois Bayou
Large clearing along the Middle Fork of the Illinois Bayou. Located on Middle Fork Road, about a 1/4 mile in from AR Hwy 27, near Hector, AR. The site is on national forest land and appears to be popular. It's large enough for 3 car/truck/campervan rigs. Area is level for rigs & tents, although the ground is mostly hard buried gravel - maybe uncomfortable to sleep on without pads. Three large puddles on the site. Three ways to enter the site from Middle Fork Road. Middle Fork Rd itself can easily accommodate 2wd passenger vehicles. Other dispersed sites further down the road along the creek. The site is not pristine, but it's nice to camp close to the bayou. Very peaceful, but there is occasional faint truck noise from Hwy 27. A half dozen or so vehicles passed by, some were residents who live further down the road. No facilities; need to bring your own water. No trash pickup; pack in, pack out.
‘Chelle S.
Guide
Sugar Camp Lookout Tower Dispersed Area
Beautiful and Peaceful
Mark Twain National Forest is always a great getaway. This location is tucked away from the main road and is easy to get to. Could easily get 4 rigs + in the sight. Established fire ring (be mindful of burn bans). Close to Roaring River and Table Rock lake.
- Fred S.Legend
Charleston Road Dispersed, Ozark NF, AR
Convenient to National Forest OHV Area
Pin location may not be correct, so here are the coordinates: 35.52534, -92.83158. Located on Charleston Road in a popular national forest OHV area - 1/2 mile southeast of the Mountain Man Trailhead. Charleston Road is a well maintained gravel road. The site is at the beginning of an old unnamed, closed, dirt track - close to Charleston Road. The site has a dirt surface; not quite level, but more level toward the rear. It is a pull-in site which can accommodate one campervan and smaller. Tent camping is possible. The site is mostly shaded. There is poison ivy around the perimeter of the site. The site includes a large rock fire ring. Except for a little bit of trash in the fire ring, the site was pretty much clean. The old track is gated just past the site,; the track is hikeable, leading up to the northern-most Stoebuck Mountain (there are two "Stoebuck Mountains" in this area). Except for being convenient to OHV trails, there is nothing remarkable about this dispersed site. It is good for an overnight stay.
- Fred S.Legend
Brock Creek - Charleston Rd Dispersed, Ozark NF, AR
Nice Dispersed Site Above Brock Creek
Not sure if the location pin is correct, so here are the coordinates: 35.49995, -92.80930. A large, wooded dispersed site situated above Brock Creek off of Charleston Road in a popular national forest OHV and multi-use trail area. Charleston Road is a wide, well maintained gravel road. The dispersed site can accommodate 2 or 3 vehicles - campervan size and smaller. There are 2 access driveways into the site. Access for a truck camper is tight due to the location of trees on the site. Access for 2WD low clearance vehicles may be rough due to some erosion. The dispersed site is a dirt surface with some embedded rocks jutting out. Some leveling may be required depending where the rig is parked. Tent camping is possible. There is a vehicle turnaround at the rear of the site. The site is shaded, so solar charging is limited. Except for a little bit of glass and some bullet shell casings scattered about, the site was clean at the time of my visit. The site has a large rock fire ring. There is a wide track that leads off the site toward the south along and above the creek. This track does not appears on any of the current forest service maps (including MVUM) that I have, so I'm assuming that it is not a legal motorized vehicle track. The track is hikeable. The site is convenient to OHV and multi-use trails. It was a pretty site during my summertime visit, but I bet it's beautiful during the Fall season. It is set back from Charleston Road. It is a really nice spot.
- TTyson B.Guide
Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area
Nicely private, but not a lot of scenery
Hercules Glades Wilderness Area is part of mark Twain National Forest. It's a bit off the beaten path, but worth it for a day hike or a bit of backpacking.
Since it's wilderness area, you can camp just about anywhere with few restrictions. There are a few primitive sites at the trailhead, no water or toilets.
A few hundred yards from the Coy Bald Trailhead there is a fork in the trail. Going left gets you to the falls and the majority of the camp sites with the shortest route, about three miles.
The trail is pretty rough and rocky with moderate elevation changes. I'd rate it on the low side of moderate difficulty.
About a mile in you'll cross the river for the first time. There are camp sites with fire rings on both sides of the river. This is a scenic area with bluffs on one side of the river, but forested, so no views to speak of.
About three miles in, you'll cross the river the second time. There are a number of camping areas with fire rings along the river.
Downstream a few hundred feet are the falls that most people go to see. Unfortunately for us, there wasn't enough water for them to be running. There was enough water to wade around in and soak the feet. It was quite nice!
The area is pretty and quiet, we saw only a handful of people in the two days we were there. The only issue was the ticks, they were the worst I'd dealt with in some time.
All in all, a nice hike and a nice bit if camping. I'd go back to see the falls again.
- Kaci C.
Scout
Hercules Glades (Watch Tower)
Lovely secluded area
Nice camping spots at the trailhead for Hercules glades. It was a beautiful, quiet area.
- KKelsey R.Guide
Sam's Throne Recreation Area
The BEST view!
Private camping spots, with trees separating each site. There’s fit pits, but no rv hook ups and only a couple bathrooms there.
It is considered a national park spot so it’s not set up for rv, but if your van or rv is self standing is perfect!! 
Summer R.ScoutSam's Throne Recreation Area
Title Required: Good. Quiet. Good and quiet.
Only stayed one night but it was very quiet and peaceful. There are surrounding trails that lead to some nice spots for a stunning sunset. These seem to be free established campgrounds, not dispersed. No trash service but there are vault toilets and fire rings. Great sites either way. Happy to stay again.
- bbriGuide
Sam's Throne Recreation Area
Peace on Earth
Amazing peaceful campsite. Can be eerie pulling up at night but is so beautiful and peaceful. On the right dark night you can see every star in the sky. Bathrooms are cleaned every other day.no running water or showers just two vault toliet. Some campsites have cell phone service. Att and had the best out of all of our phones. Place is completely free. Beautiful path to walk to see the open ozarks but not much else to do here. Bambi and her mom also seem to live here.
- Fred S.Legend
Morgan Mtn Rd/Spy Rock Dispersed
Large dispersed with a view
Coordinates: 35.69300,-93.76803. Large dispersed site with a view, especially in the winter, of the mountains to the west. Located along Morgan Mountain Road, Forest Road 1504, a little over a mile north of AR Hwy 215. The trailhead to Spy Rock is about a mile north of this site. Altough eroded in spots due to recent heavy rains, Morgan Mountain Road was in good condition - no obstacles. A 2wd passenger car can carefully make it over the eroded areas. Except for one small spot, the site is not level - slopes downhill a little toward the ridge. Camping rigs may need leveling depending on the parking spot. Access into the site from the forest road is easy. There is a clean rock fire ring. Tenting camping is possible. Hammock camping may be possible using nearby trees. The site is mostly shaded. The forest surrounding this campsite is beautiful. I received no T-Mobile service during my visit. I decided not to camp here during my visit due to a brisk, cold north-northwest wind blowing through the campsite.
- Miranda M.Guide
Sam's Throne Recreation Area
Beautiful location
Very beautiful place with vault toilets only and no running water. There are a few bears in the region so I would hang my food just to be safe. There aren't any specific spots for RV's but there are a few cleared areas with room to park an RV or trailer. Near the entrance to the facility right off of the highway there is a large gravel parking lot. This facility has day-use for rock climbing. Motorcycle friendly but there is a sign stating no OHV's. No trash cans, pack-in/pack-out facility. Donations are accepted but it is a FREE campsite.
- ZZahra N.Scout
Sam's Throne Recreation Area
Wrong Location
Went to this location to camp anticipating water campsites, no such thing.
The V.ScoutSam's Throne Recreation Area
Great Weekend Spot!
Campsites were spaced out and had great privacy. The trail was super close and the views were amazing.
Anna W.GuideHercules Glades (Watch Tower)
Quiet and easy
We got here on a pretty hilly/twisty road late at night, found a spot close to the trailhead and had a quiet, peaceful night sleep. We saw just one other camper with a trailer close to the inlet. Just a quick stop on our way, we didn’t hike long in the morning but the trail seemed quiet and secluded; we didn’t see anyone else.
- bbriGuide
Ozark National Forest - Dispersed Camping
Not a camp spot (private propery)
This was not at all a campsite. Most of the forest is private property with house everywhere. This location in particular is no different. Go to Sam's throne to camp
- KKelly C.Guide
Sam's Throne Recreation Area
Quiet & Serene
This is a great, and free, campground. Lots of sites, all are good.
- Jacob B.Guide
Woolum Dispersed Area — Buffalo National River
Extremly beautiful area, simple camp ground
I took a canoe trip down the buffalo river a few springs ago and I believe this was one of my stops. It was still early in the season so restroom facilities weren’t open yet. Bare bones camp sites with only fire pit rings. Beautiful area!
Crystal C.LegendHercules-Glades Wilderness Area
Hike in and camp, or just hike for day use!!
This area is a wilderness area so camping is plentiful. However in this particular are there is no organized campsite specifically. Instead there are several areas where you can with permissions hike in and stay.
My suggestion for camping along this area are to check with local restrictions, there are some that you will want to make sure you know first hand. Sometimes fire restrictions do change and these can be found at the beginning of the trails on the kiosks. Some areas also are not permitted for overnight parking so you want to check those out before venturing into the wilderness for a lengthy time.
Check with rangers of the area to make sure you are not in a register only or permit only area for camping!! Very important in this region.
Bring everything and then plot your course.
The 4 mile hike is amazing and has many beautiful view points however it is also quite treacherous in some areas. This area is also one which you will find many snakes lurking during warmer months so beware!!!!
I always suggest on wilderness hikes to not hike alone or camp alone but this one I found to be more problematic with limited to no cell service for assistance should you encounter danger.
Be careful but have fun!!!
- Debra G.Guide
Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area
Great Hiking
This is a short four mile hike into cool shut ins that provide a swimming hole and water falls. Along the way on the ridge you can see all the way down into Arkansas.
Lots of fond memories hiking and camping back into the glades. Began hiking these trails over forty years ago. I have hiked all four Sean’s and even spent a December wedding anniversary there with my husband. Our daughters, now in their forties grew up hiking those trails.
Once I even rode horseback to the shut ins.
- Nikki M.Guide
Sam's Throne Recreation Area
Nice area
Nice campground sites mostly tucked up in the treeline. Hiking nearby
- Clayton R.Guide
Sam's Throne Recreation Area
Gorgeous!
Road is kinda sketchy on the way up but the bluffs are fantastic!
- AAlexandra
TravelerSam's Throne Recreation Area
Beautiful Area, Clean Campsites & Bathrooms
Pros:
-Campground was completely empty when I arrived on a Thursday evening in December.
-Sites are separated by trees, so some privacy.
-There are more than one compositing toilet on site& they are cleaned regularly.
-Beautiful cliff views are a short walk away.
Cons:
-No water access, so bring your own
Ashley F.
RangerSam's Throne Recreation Area
Primitive Sites & Beautiful Views
Sam's Throne Recreation Area really is a hidden gem, even for the non-climbers out there. We started a five day camping trip on a Saturday and sure enough, as we had already heard about this place's weekend popularity, the sites were packed. Many groups out there taking advantage of the beautiful March weather to hit the rock and explore all the many jaw-dropping routes on and around Sam's rocky Throne. Once the weekend ended though, there were an average of 2 or 3 other occupied sites in the area throughout the week.
Me, my boyfriend and our dog must have been the only non-climbers out there, which was completely fine because there really is SO MUCH to do and see. There are a number of trails outside the main established trails (see picture of trail map). Our second day there we spent eight hours skirting along the bluffs and exploring what looked like beautiful fairy lands.
The weather was perfect (high 50's/low 60's during the days and down to low 40's at night) and the bugs were almost non-existent (but we still defended ourselves from ticks with spray and covered legs).
We spent every day we were there exploring new spots and areas because the stretch of land is endless. What's nice is you can also drive 20 or so miles out to other beautiful spots like Pedestal Rock Scenic Area and Alum Cove Natural Bridge. We hopped on the Ozark Highland Trail for about six miles starting at the nearby Fairview Campground (which I highly recommend!).
And of course, don't forget to check out THE Sam's Throne, which is still accessible for those not harnessed and roped up. There is a climbable route that is fairly easy to moderate and allows you to access the throne and all it's glory. There are even a couple of fire rings up there which would definitely make for some breathtaking tent views. I may be partial to this place now because I happened to get engaged on the Throne at sunset during our last night there, and I couldn't have asked for a more beautiful experience.
I highly recommend this area, this forest, and hell the whole state for a great camping experience!
- Kimberly K.Scout
Sam's Throne Recreation Area
Beautiful location
Good hiking trails and wonderful views nearby. Never disappoints.
Guide to Compton
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Compton, Arkansas, where nature lovers can find serene spots to unwind and connect with the outdoors. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, this area is perfect for those seeking adventure and tranquility.
Tips for free and dispersed camping near Compton, Arkansas
- Many dispersed camping areas, like Sam's Throne Recreation Area, allow campfires, making it a great spot for evening gatherings under the stars.
- Be prepared for limited amenities; for instance, Woolum Dispersed Area — Buffalo National River offers vault toilets but no running water, so bring your own supplies.
- Privacy is abundant in these areas, with sites like Forest Service Rd 82 Dispersed providing a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle.
Dispersed campers should check out Sam's Throne Recreation Area
- This location is known for its stunning views and well-maintained trails, perfect for hiking enthusiasts looking to explore the Ozarks.
- Campers can enjoy the freedom of no permits required, making it easy to set up camp at Sam's Throne Recreation Area without the hassle of reservations.
- The area is pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry companions along for the adventure.
Scenic hikes for dispersed campers in the Ozarks
- The trails surrounding Buffalo Creek Trail offer beautiful scenery and opportunities for wildlife spotting, making it a great choice for nature lovers.
- Hikers can enjoy breathtaking views at sunset from various vantage points near Sam's Throne Recreation Area, enhancing the camping experience.
- For those seeking a more secluded experience, Adams Mountain Rd Dispersed Campsite provides access to hiking trails that lead to hidden waterfalls, perfect for a refreshing dip on warm days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Compton, AR?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Compton, AR is Sam's Throne Recreation Area with a 4.5-star rating from 16 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Compton, AR?
TheDyrt.com has all 22 dispersed camping locations near Compton, AR, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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