Dispersed camping opportunities near Fort Smith, Arkansas include many primitive sites across the Ozark and Ouachita National Forests that don't charge camping fees. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing at higher elevations, particularly in the Ozarks where campsites sit at 1,500-2,500 feet. Most forest roads to dispersed sites become increasingly difficult to navigate after heavy rainfall, with some becoming impassable due to water crossings.
What to do
Hike to Spy Rock: From Morgan Mountain Road dispersed sites, access the Spy Rock Trail for panoramic views. "Spy rock is gorgeous, the trail is a little rough but totally worth it. Trail head is on the right about a mile past camp," notes one visitor to Morgan Mtn Rd/Spy Rock Dispersed.
Fish at Jack Creek: The dispersed sites along Jack Creek Road offer creek access for fishing. "This is a large wooded dispersed campsite that has a short path down to Jack Creek. Depending on the water level, fishing and wading are possible at the creek," according to a camper at Jack Creek Dispersed.
Take the Boardstand Trail loop: Near Dead Man Gap, create a 6-mile loop combining multiple trails. "There's an awesome trail a little north of camp called Boardstand trail, take it east and you can follow it to 8554 Red Bank, follow it south to Ouachita Trail, then follow it west until you reach Talimena Scenic drive," reports a visitor at Dead Man Gap Dispersed Campsite.
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Many dispersed sites are set back from forest roads. "The campsite is well off of Jack Creek Road, down an undesignated dirt track, offering a lot of privacy. This is a wonderful site to camp in," writes one camper about Jack Creek Dispersed.
Creek access for cooling off: Several sites have nearby creek access. "There is a creek with a pool maybe 100 yards downhill from the campsite, great for cooling off on a hot summer day or filtering water," reports a visitor at Dead Man Gap Dispersed Campsite.
Night sky viewing: Limited light pollution makes stargazing possible. "Even with the traffic, we did find some time to listen to the birds and sit in silence under the dark skies," notes a camper at Morgan Mtn Rd/Spy Rock Dispersed.
What you should know
Forest service regulations: Some forest roads have restricted vehicle access. At Dispersed Near Devils Den, one camper warned, "The people at the tow company warned me that the forest service does NOT allow cars to drive on these roads anymore, and that is why they added guard rails. They told me that had I gotten caught with my car in there I would have had to pay a big fine."
Cell service varies widely: Coverage is inconsistent throughout the region. "I received no T-Mobile service during my visit," notes one camper about Morgan Mountain Road sites, while another reports, "T-Mobile has anywhere from one bar LTE to three bars of 5G extended to 2 bars 5G here."
Water availability concerns: Most sites lack reliable water sources. "The creek bed was bone dry," reports a visitor to Dead Man Gap in November, showing seasonal water sources can't be counted on year-round.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with established paths: Some dispersed areas have better terrain for children. "The site has a level dirt surface which can accommodate 4 rigs. Tent and hammock camping are possible," notes a visitor to Jack Creek Dispersed, making it suitable for family setups.
Pack in all water needs: No reliable water sources exist at most free camping sites near Fort Smith. "No toilets/showers/dumpsters/trash cans," reminds a camper at Forest Service Rd 82 Dispersed, emphasizing the need to bring all supplies.
Check for wildlife activity: Be prepared for wildlife encounters. "Be weary of the spiders (daddy long legs) and stick bugs everywhere! Harmless but creeped out the young one," shares a camper at Dead Man Gap Dispersed Campsite.
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate only smaller rigs. At Lee Creek Off Road Site, a camper notes, "I don't think a bus would fit but my 21ft. van was mostly a tight fit. A good public land spot with just enough space for two car campers."
Road assessment necessary: Forest roads deteriorate with weather and use. "Morgan Mountain Road was in good condition - no obstacles. A 2wd passenger car can carefully make it over the eroded areas," reports a visitor, though conditions change quickly after rain.
Leveling challenges: Many sites have uneven terrain. "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," warns a camper about sites along Morgan Mountain Road.
