Best Dispersed Camping near Gillham, AR

Dispersed camping opportunities surround Gillham, Arkansas in the Ouachita National Forest, with several primitive sites offering free overnight stays without developed facilities. Multiple free camping areas are located along forest roads and near creeks, particularly in areas like Blue Knob Road, Turner Creek Road, and along the Talimena Scenic Drive. The nearby Ouachita National Forest spans into Oklahoma with additional dispersed camping zones along County Road 51220 and near Cedar Creek. These sites typically have no designated boundaries or site markers.

Access roads to dispersed sites vary considerably in quality and seasonal conditions. Most routes require slow, careful navigation on dirt or gravel roads with potential for washouts or rough sections. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for many areas, especially after rain. Several reviewers noted specific access challenges, with one stating, "The road in was a little bumpy, take it slow and you'll be fine." Camping in the Ouachita National Forest generally follows the standard 14-day stay limit. No drinking water, toilets, or trash services are available at any dispersed sites, requiring campers to pack in all supplies and pack out all waste.

The Ouachita region provides isolation and natural settings uncommon in more developed camping areas. Sites near water features like Cedar Creek and the Kiamichi River are particularly sought after, with one camper describing their experience as "surrounded by trees, moss and running blue mountain spring water." Privacy levels vary by location, with some sites offering considerable seclusion. A visitor to the Blue Knob Road area mentioned, "You're in the middle of nowhere and it's gorgeous!" Cell service is inconsistent throughout the region but reported as good in some areas. Fire restrictions may apply seasonally, and several sites include existing rock fire rings from previous campers, though visitors should always check current regulations before burning.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Gillham, Arkansas (12)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Gillham, AR

8 Photos of 12 Gillham Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Gillham, AR

12 Reviews of 12 Gillham Campgrounds


  • Jessie M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 3, 2023

    Ouachita NF - CR 51220 Dispersed

    Could not find.

    Could not find. find. The grid cordinates lead to someones private cabin. Tucked in middles of residential cabin colmunity. It is national forest borders but private lots.

  • Wesley H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 23, 2025

    County Road D1590 Dispersed

    Really in the woods

    Took our class c down the narrow road. Pretty good mostly rock.camp site was clean.

  • HThe Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 29, 2023

    Blue Knob Road in Ouachita National Forest

    Solitude

    I have a 30ft Class C which is probably the largest vehicle you would want to drive down the dirt road to this site. There is a clearing near the Ouachita Trail with a fire pit and plenty of space to park. You're in the middle of nowhere and it's gorgeous!

  • M
    Jun. 9, 2024

    Pigeon Creek Dispersed

    No access

    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

  • Jeanne A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 25, 2022

    Ouachita NF - CR 51220 Dispersed

    Great spot!

    We were her two days and loved it. Then we found the creek just east of us off a small trail. Just start walking right into the woods and you’ll find it. Many camps here some small some large. Some full sun some full shade!

  • Jessica W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 16, 2021

    Pigeon Creek Dispersed

    Just what I was looking for.

    The road in was a little bumpy take it slow and you’ll be fine. Just on the right is a clearing you can’t miss next to the Kiamichi River along side pigeon creek. You’re surrounded by trees, moss and running blue mountain spring water. What’s not to love? The terrain is rocky so use a thick mat or hammock but you will love it.

  • Jeanne A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 25, 2022

    Ouachita NF - CR 51220 Dispersed

    Forgot somethings

    Stayed 5 days in all. Att service good. The creek is just to the east of camp spot. Most camp spots you have your own driveway and large spot. Adjacent spots probably a mile apart

  • azul darcy L.
    May. 26, 2024

    Pigeon Creek Dispersed

    Would have been perfect

    The river and creek merging was so beautiful! It was a beautiful drive there. But whoever was there before me trashed it out. It’s sad.


Guide to Gillham

Dispersed camping sites surround Gillham, Arkansas within the Ouachita National Forest, offering primitive overnight stays at elevations ranging from 600 to 2,600 feet. The forest terrain consists predominantly of oak and hickory trees with pine stands in higher elevations. Seasonal streams create natural boundaries between many camping areas, with most sites accessible via unpaved forest roads that often become difficult to navigate after rainfall.

What to do

Hiking access: The Ouachita National Forest features multiple trailheads near dispersed camping areas. Talimena Scenic Drive provides access to sections of the 223-mile Ouachita Trail with camping opportunities nearby. "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," notes a camper at Talimena Scenic Drive.

Stream exploration: Cedar Creek offers natural swimming opportunities near several camping spots. A camper at Quachita NF Dispersed by Cedar Creek off 51220 shared: "Right off of Forest road 51220, large area to park and camp all by yourself. Stream is 40 feet away with a swimming hole. Very private."

Wildlife observation: The forest supports diverse wildlife including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and various bird species. Morning and evening hours provide optimal viewing times from campsites. Pack binoculars and reference guides for species identification.

What campers like

Natural water features: The confluence of streams and rivers creates popular gathering spots. A reviewer camping at Pigeon Creek noted: "The river and creek merging was so beautiful! It was a beautiful drive there." Water levels fluctuate seasonally, with spring typically offering the strongest flows.

Seclusion factor: Many dispersed sites in the Ouachita Forest provide significant distance between camping areas. "You're in the middle of nowhere and it's gorgeous!" reports a camper staying at Blue Knob Road in Ouachita National Forest. Sites along forest roads typically offer greater separation than those near trailheads.

Rock fire rings: Established camping spots often feature stone fire rings from previous visitors. At Turner Creek Road, a camper mentioned: "Very secluded spot no amenities just a rock fire ring. Very peaceful." Always check current fire restrictions before using these rings.

What you should know

Road conditions: Forest access roads require careful navigation with potential for washouts. A camper at County Road D1590 stated: "Took our class c down the narrow road. Pretty good mostly rock. Camp site was clean." Seasonal rain can significantly alter road conditions.

Navigation challenges: Some sites prove difficult to locate without precise coordinates. One camper reported: "Could not find. The grid coordinates lead to someones private cabin. Tucked in middles of residential cabin community." Local ranger stations can provide updated information about site accessibility.

Campsite variation: Sites differ significantly in size, sun exposure, and terrain features. A camper at National Forest CR 51220 observed: "Many camps here some small some large. Some full sun some full shade! Most camp spots you have your own driveway and large spot. Adjacent spots probably a mile apart."

Tips for camping with families

Site selection: Choose camping locations near shallow water features for natural play spaces. Look for level ground with minimal undergrowth for tent placement and activities.

Wildlife precautions: Store food properly in sealed containers, preferably in vehicles. The Ouachita region has black bears, though sightings near campsites remain uncommon.

Navigation markers: The lack of designated site markers can make returning to camp challenging. One camper at Mena Arkansas described their experience as a "Good secluded spot for Privacy." Consider marking your route with temporary trail markers when exploring with children.

Tips from RVers

Vehicle limitations: Most rustic camping near Gillham suits smaller RVs with high clearance. A camper with a 30-foot Class C noted: "I have a 30ft Class C which is probably the largest vehicle you would want to drive down the dirt road to this site."

Backing techniques: Limited turning space requires backing skills at several sites. An experienced driver advised: "I have a CDL and back stuff all day. Don't try to pull in. Back in off the Buck Mountain."

Isolation considerations: Remote locations mean limited assistance if mechanical issues arise. One RVer reported: "Definitely isolated, kind of creepy at night. Drove our 29ft class c to the site, road is mostly small rocks." Carry basic repair supplies and emergency communication equipment.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Gillham, AR is Mena Arkansas with a 4-star rating from 2 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 12 dispersed camping locations near Gillham, AR, with real photos and reviews from campers.