Dispersed camping near De Queen, Arkansas provides access to the surrounding Ouachita National Forest where campsites range in elevation from approximately 500 to 2,500 feet. The region receives an average annual rainfall of 54 inches, creating lush vegetation and multiple waterways for recreation. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-95°F while winter lows can dip below freezing.
What to do
Wildlife observation opportunities: Quachita NF Dispersed by Cedar Creek offers excellent wildlife viewing areas. One camper noted, "Right off of Forest road51220, large area to park and camp all by yourself. Stream is 40 feet away with a swimming hole."
Fishing access: Bois D'Arc Lake Wildlife Area provides multiple access points for anglers. A recent visitor mentioned, "I stayed at the end near the boat dock and was surrounded on three sides by water. I awoke to the sound of waterfowl and enjoyed coffee in the lake breeze."
Scenic drives: The forested routes around Talimena Scenic Drive offer remarkable views when weather permits. As one camper warns, "This is an awesome place the drive is well worth it too as long as you don't catch fog like we did you couldn't see 2ft in front of your car."
What campers like
Solitude and space: Many dispersed sites in Ouachita National Forest provide significant distance between campers. At Mena Arkansas, one reviewer appreciated the "Good secluded spot for Privacy."
Water features: Pigeon Creek Dispersed offers water access where two waterways meet. A camper described it as, "The river and creek merging was so beautiful! It was a beautiful drive there."
Free camping options: Most dispersed sites in the national forest have no fees. At Bois D'Arce Lake Peninsula, campers appreciate that it's "Easy to get to and great spots on the lake! free!"
What you should know
Road conditions vary: Forest roads require careful navigation. For County Road D1590, a camper notes, "Took our class c down the narrow road. Pretty good mostly rock. Camp site was clean."
Inconsistent site access: Some locations have variable conditions. At Pigeon Creek, one visitor reported, "We drove slowly back and forth along the road exactly where the coordinates lead us to but there is no vehicle access to the forest there. It's completely overgrown."
Cell service fluctuates: Coverage depends on specific location. At Bois D'Arc Lake Wildlife Area, a camper found, "ATT phone service is very limited. I have 1 bar."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Cedar Creek provides natural water recreation for children. One camper at Quachita NF Dispersed mentioned a "stream is 40 feet away with a swimming hole. Very private."
Campsite security: Some areas feel more remote after dark. At County Road D1590, a camper noted it was "Definitely isolated, kind of creepy at night."
Wildlife sounds: Natural nighttime noises can be educational for children. At Bois D'Arc Lake Wildlife Area, a camper reported, "At night, I listened to an owl close by and coyotes in the distance."
Tips from RVers
Road width considerations: Forest roads may present challenges. For County Road D1590, one RVer mentioned, "Drove our 29ft class c to the site, road is mostly small rocks."
Site selection for larger vehicles: Finding level, accessible spots requires planning. A visitor to Grasshopper Campground noted, "It cost us 16 USD and was really noisy because of all the boats that came fishing in the weekend."
Limited amenities: Dispersed camping near De Queen lacks facilities. As one camper at Bois D'Arc Lake Wildlife Area stated, "Dispersed campsites around the lake. Zero services or amenities. No dumpsters, no water, no restrooms."
