Best Dispersed Camping near Gentry, AR

Dispersed camping options near Gentry, Arkansas include several free primitive sites within an hour's drive. Lookout Tower Road offers multiple camping spots with established fire rings and is accessible for most vehicles. The area maintains relatively clean conditions compared to other free camping areas. Verizon cell service is available for phone calls, though data may be limited. Bike trails in the vicinity provide recreational opportunities for campers seeking additional activities.

No drinking water, toilets, or trash facilities exist at these dispersed sites. All water must be packed in, and all waste packed out. Campers should follow strict Leave No Trace principles. According to reviews, Lookout Tower Road accommodates various vehicle sizes, with one camper reporting success bringing a 40-foot bus to the site. Fire restrictions vary seasonally; always check current burn ban status before planning to have a campfire.

The Sugar Camp Lookout Tower Dispersed Area in nearby Mark Twain National Forest provides another option approximately 45 minutes from Gentry. Several campers noted this location is "tucked away from the main road and is easy to get to" with space for "4 rigs or more" at the site. This area features established fire rings but requires adherence to potential burn bans. Its proximity to Roaring River and Table Rock Lake makes it convenient for day trips.

Huckleberry Ridge Conservation Area in Missouri offers a quieter alternative with a gravel drive leading to a grass lot. The site is described as remote and cozy by visitors, though somewhat difficult to navigate in darkness. Wildlife is common in these areas; be prepared for ticks during warmer months by using appropriate repellents and checking regularly. Weather conditions can change rapidly; always check forecasts before departure.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Gentry, Arkansas (8)

    1. Lookout Tower Road

    3 Reviews
    Siloam Springs, AR
    9 miles

    "Less trash than most free camps. Multiple spots with plenty of room and not many bugs. Cell signal was strong in many places. Bike trails are worth using.

    Bring it in take it out, it's that easy."

    "We were in Bentonville, Arkansas and decided to take a gamble on this and it was about 40 minute drive when we got there."

    2. Huckleberry Ridge Conservation Area

    3 Reviews
    Pineville, MO
    25 miles

    "Right off highway K! Coordinates looks like it drops you off at the middle of the road but there is a gravel drive. Brings you to a grass lot with a trail off of it."

    "Pretty remote. Quiet. Tick dog tried to get through the tick gate but failed unfortunately. No table. Burn ban, so no fires. No ticks. Hard to get to in the dark, but nice scenery."

    3. Dispersed Near Devils Den

    2 Reviews
    Chester, AR
    36 miles

    "The coordinates are fairly accurate. The entryways are a little tight for vehicles, but I made it in my sprinter van so everything else should be just fine. Would’ve been a nearly perfect campsite."

    4. Sugar Camp Lookout Tower Dispersed Area

    2 Reviews
    Eagle Rock, MO
    41 miles

    "Completely surrounded by forest, so plenty of shade. Access road was a little rough, as in your typical dirt road, but posed 0 problems for our little economy car. I’ve had much worse for sure."

    "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."

    5. Lee Creek Off Road Site

    1 Review
    Natural Dam, AR
    38 miles

    6. Dam Site Campground at Fort Gibson

    3 Reviews
    Okay, OK
    49 miles
    Website
    +1 (918) 682-4314

    "There is plenty to do around the area, fish, hike and explore. The people are nice and the camp host helped us out with firewood."

    "Gibson lake it a great place. The view is awesome, and there is a lot to do."

    7. OHT Backcountry Primitive Site

    1 Review
    Combs, AR
    49 miles
    Website
    +1 (479) 964-7200

    8. OHT Primitive Site

    Be the first to review!
    Combs, AR
    49 miles
    Website
    +1 (479) 369-4128

    $5 / night

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Gentry, AR

11 Reviews of 8 Gentry Campgrounds


  • Lauren
    Jul. 3, 2025

    Dispersed Near Devils Den

    Be careful!

    I just got back from staying here for a night. For one, it is a very narrow road but my minivan got through just fine. UNTIL I made it to a puddle of water (that I highly underestimated), got stuck in the mud immediately and had to call a tow company (by walking 15 minutes down the highway to get signal; no signal at all at the sites) to help pull me out for $400. 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. He said camping is fine as long as you park on the turnout by the highway and walk in. Saying all of that, there are still multiple really nice and spread out spots with nice huge firepits. I would have been fine with parking and walking in. Also, I was in pretty deep and could still hear the cars on the highway, but not many come by (at least not on a Tuesday night). The creek is nice. Also tons of fireflies which was cool.

  • K
    Jul. 5, 2025

    Sugar Camp Lookout Tower Dispersed Area

    Acessable to all

    Pretty great spot! If you’re fortunate enough to be alone, this is a very large space, with a nice picnic table and a few fire pits. Completely surrounded by forest, so plenty of shade. Access road was a little rough, as in your typical dirt road, but posed 0 problems for our little economy car. I’ve had much worse for sure. The area is pretty secluded, with only a few cars driving through all day, so bear spray is absolutely necessary for peace of mind. Practice good bear prevention measures and you’re good to go for a free night stay, or several, happy camping!

  • ‘Chelle S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 4, 2024

    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.

  • Bud D.
    Aug. 5, 2024

    Lookout Tower Road

    Fairly clean

    Less trash than most free camps. Multiple spots with plenty of room and not many bugs. Cell signal was strong in many places. Bike trails are worth using.

    Bring it in take it out, it's that easy.

  • Mack Daddy Van L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 26, 2025

    Dispersed Near Devils Den

    Great hidden spot by the water

    The coordinates are fairly accurate. The entryways are a little tight for vehicles, but I made it in my sprinter van so everything else should be just fine. Would’ve been a nearly perfect campsite. Had it not been for all the trash left by others. Nice walk trails along the water. Local stop in for swimming and fishing. Insect surprisingly weren’t that bad. Traffic from nearby road is almost nonexistent. Stay two nights no issues.

  • Chad K.
    Sep. 25, 2016

    Dam Site Campground at Fort Gibson

    Fort Gibson Lake

    The dam site campground is nice but crowded. The sites are packed together and leave little privacy. There is plenty to do around the area, fish, hike and explore. The people are nice and the camp host helped us out with firewood.

  • Michelle T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 28, 2025

    Lookout Tower Road

    Perfect night out from Bentonville Arkansas

    We were in Bentonville, Arkansas and decided to take a gamble on this and it was about 40 minute drive when we got there. There was plenty of space for the dog to roam without getting into high grass where ticks would be festering and it was a sweet little private getaway for a night before driving on. We highly recommend. Starlink didn't work but Verizon did for phone calls only.

  • Michele E.
    Aug. 8, 2016

    Dam Site Campground at Fort Gibson

    The Dam site

    The dam site at Ft. Gibson lake it a great place. The view is awesome, and there is a lot to do. You can to the dam and fish for all kinds of fish, hike in the woods, swim up at the lake, or put your boat in for a cruise. The site hosts are great and very friendly. Lots of sites and lots of trees for shade.

  • David M.
    Oct. 4, 2020

    Dam Site Campground at Fort Gibson

    A nice lake usually

    Fort Gibson Lake is a flood control lake so the water levels can fluctuate. Specifically the waters can rise to where boating ramps are not available. 2020 has been a good year (without excessive rain) and everything was open for the summer season. The east side of the lake is spring fed creeks and therefore cleaner and clearer. I grew up on this lake and it can be a fun place. Many people enjoy the summer here.


Guide to Gentry

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Gentry, Arkansas, where nature enthusiasts can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, it's the perfect getaway for those looking to immerse themselves in the great outdoors.

Scenic Trails for Dispersed Campers

  • The Lookout Tower Road area features multiple spots with ample space and strong cell signal, making it a great choice for those who enjoy biking on nearby trails.
  • At Huckleberry Ridge Conservation Area, campers can enjoy a quiet, remote experience with beautiful scenery, perfect for a peaceful retreat.
  • The Sugar Camp Lookout Tower Dispersed Area is tucked away from the main road, providing easy access to hiking trails and stunning views of the Mark Twain National Forest.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Gentry, Arkansas

  • When visiting the Dispersed Near Devils Den, be prepared for a primitive experience with no amenities, making it essential to bring all necessary supplies.
  • The OHT Backcountry Primitive Site allows campfires and pets, offering a great opportunity for a cozy night under the stars.
  • For those looking for a more developed experience, the Dam Site Campground at Fort Gibson provides drinking water and electric hookups, while still maintaining a dispersed feel.

Unique Features of Dispersed Camping Locations

  • Campers at Lookout Tower Road can enjoy a clean environment with less trash than many other free camping spots, enhancing the overall experience.
  • The Huckleberry Ridge Conservation Area is known for its cozy atmosphere, where visitors can enjoy the tranquility of nature while being close to the highway for easy access.
  • At the OHT Primitive Site, campers can enjoy the freedom of no permits required, making it an ideal choice for spontaneous trips into the wilderness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Gentry, AR?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Gentry, AR is Lookout Tower Road with a 5-star rating from 3 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Gentry, AR?

TheDyrt.com has all 8 dispersed camping locations near Gentry, AR, with real photos and reviews from campers.