Dispersed camping near Dennard, Arkansas offers options in the eastern Ozarks where elevations range from 700-2,300 feet with a humid subtropical climate. The region typically sees mild winters with occasional snow and hot summers with temperatures frequently reaching the 90s. Seasonal road closures and access limitations affect campsite availability, particularly after heavy rainfall when forest service roads become difficult to navigate.
What to do
Rock climbing exploration: Sam's Throne Recreation Area features limestone bluffs popular with climbers of various skill levels. As one visitor noted, "Road is kinda sketchy on the way up but the bluffs are fantastic!" Another camper mentioned spending time "exploring what looked like beautiful fairy lands" around the bluffs.
Waterway recreation: Near Woolum Dispersed Area, campers enjoy swimming and fishing. "Right on the river with both a rock and sand beach currently," reports one visitor. Another mentions it has "the best swimming hole!" making it perfect for cooling off during hot summer days.
Wildlife observation: Gene Rush Wildlife Management Area offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. One visitor mentioned "there are only a handful of sites spread throughout the WMA and you can only camp in those designated by the game and fish." The area has two specific camping locations - one "high on a bluff top" and another "more in a valley."
Hiking opportunities: Multiple forest service roads connect to hiking trails throughout the region. A visitor to Tackett Mountain Road Dispersed noted "there are no hiking trails here, although one can take a stroll along FR90231L which is less than a half-mile long."
What campers like
Solitude in less-visited areas: Tackett Mountain Road offers peaceful camping away from crowds. A camper described it as "a nice place to simply hang out in," mentioning "the site is tucked into the trees, and it has a clean rock fire ring."
Multi-use trail access: Charleston Road Dispersed provides direct access to OHV trails. A visitor noted it's "located on Charleston Road in a popular national forest OHV area - 1/2 mile southeast of the Mountain Man Trailhead."
Riverside camping: Many visitors appreciate camping directly beside waterways. At Woolum Dispersed Area, campers enjoy being "right on the riverbank." One camper described it as "a very primitive campground, but it's one of our favorites! We can almost always find a spot to camp and it's super easy to pull our trailer into every spot there."
Seasonal beauty: The area transforms throughout the year. According to one visitor to Brock Creek, "It was a pretty site during my summertime visit, but I bet it's beautiful during the Fall season."
What you should know
Permit requirements: Hunting licenses or specific permits may be required. At Gene Rush WMA, "100% of Wildlife Management Areas in the state of Arkansas require a Hunting license or WMA camping permit purchased though Arkansas Game and Fish." These permits cost approximately $5 and can be purchased online.
Road conditions vary significantly: Many sites require travel on rough roads. A visitor to Brock Creek - Charleston Rd Dispersed noted "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."
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites have no amenities. At Sam's Throne, a camper mentioned "There are vault toilets only and no running water. There aren't any specific spots for RV's but there are a few cleared areas with room to park an RV or trailer."
Site verification: Coordinates help locate sites accurately. For Tackett Mountain Road, a reviewer provided specific coordinates (35.44497, -92.76914) noting "This is a small dispersed campsite with a level dirt surface, just big enough to accommodate one vehicle - truck camper and smaller."
Tips for camping with families
Safety considerations: Areas with steep terrain require supervision. At Sam's Throne, "There are a number of trails outside the main established trails" that may require caution with children.
Wildlife management areas timing: At Gene Rush WMA, consider hunting seasons when planning family trips. A visitor noted "There is pretty much at least one open hunting season from September each year through the following May."
Water activities: Woolum offers family-friendly swimming. One camper specifically mentioned it has a "quiet, spacious" area with "the best swimming hole!" making it ideal for families looking to cool off.
Bathroom facilities: Most sites have limited or no facilities. A camper at Sam's Throne noted "There are more than one compositing toilet on site & they are cleaned regularly," which can be important for families.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller rigs only. At Group Dispersed, Charleston Road, a visitor noted "This dispersed site is a level with a dirt and grass surface. The site can accommodate multiple vehicles," making it one of the better options for group camping with multiple RVs.
Leveling challenges: Bring leveling blocks for uneven surfaces. At Brock Creek, "Some leveling may be required depending where the rig is parked" due to "a dirt surface with some embedded rocks."
Solar considerations: Tree cover affects solar charging capabilities. A reviewer at Group Dispersed on Charleston Road mentioned "The site is open with little shade, making recharging with solar panels possible."
Water planning: No water sources exist at most sites. At Woolum, visitors note it's "a very primitive campground" requiring campers to bring all necessary water supplies.
