Best Dispersed Camping near Crossett, AR
Dispersed camping near Crossett, Arkansas includes two primary options in neighboring Louisiana: Russell Sage Wildlife Management Area and Sugar Creek Hunt Camp. Both locations provide free primitive camping with minimal amenities on public land. Russell Sage WMA features a turnaround area with camping spots near a pond, located approximately 5 miles from Interstate 20. Sugar Creek Hunt Camp offers multiple dispersed sites at the end of a two-mile gravel road, with space for various camping setups including larger vehicles.
Access to these dispersed camping areas requires navigating unpaved roads that may present challenges. Sugar Creek Hunt Camp's access road contains numerous large potholes that demand careful driving, particularly at night. Russell Sage WMA has a gravel entrance road approximately 0.5 miles from the nearest paved road. While camping was previously completely free at Russell Sage, recent reviews indicate a $5 permit requirement has been implemented. Most sites lack amenities like drinking water or electric hookups, though Sugar Creek provides vault toilets and trash receptacles not available at Russell Sage.
These primitive camping areas offer varying experiences based on recent visitor reports. Russell Sage WMA provides a secluded setting with occasional wildlife viewing opportunities, though site conditions can be inconsistent. "It's just a circle turn around back in the woods," noted one camper about Russell Sage. Sugar Creek Hunt Camp offers more established sites with slightly better facilities. "Super cute little spot. It had plenty of space/sites for big rigs, cars, tents, and hammocks," according to a visitor. Both locations have limited or no cell service, with one camper reporting "absolutely 0 service for AT&T or Verizon" at Sugar Creek. Campers should be prepared for self-sufficient, off-grid camping with potential for local wildlife encounters and varying levels of solitude.
