Tent campsites near Greenbrier, Arkansas are spread throughout the Ouachita National Forest, with elevations ranging from 500 to 2,600 feet. Most dispersed camping options remain open year-round, though summer temperatures typically reach 90°F with high humidity while winter nights often drop below freezing. Flash flooding can occur on forest roads during heavy rain events, particularly in spring.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Brown Creek Cascade is accessible via a short 1/4-mile trail from Brown Creek Cascade Dispersed Campsite, requiring one creek crossing. "The South Fork of Brown Creek runs behind this campsite," notes one camper, providing soothing background sounds for overnight stays.
Paintball and laser tag: For groups seeking organized activities, Xtreme Paintball and Laser Tag offers tent camping with structured recreation options. "They are in the line of totality and are looking forward to welcoming you and your furry friends," notes a reviewer about their special eclipse event.
Wilderness exploration: The Flatside Wilderness Area is accessible from Forest Road 132 dispersed sites. "Located along Forest Road 132 (Winona Scenic Drive) in the Ouachita National Forest... Flatside Wilderness Area located across the road from the site," reports a camper, making these sites ideal bases for backcountry hiking.
What campers like
Stone shelters: Bayou Bluff Point of Interest features unique historic structures. "The walk to the river is very easy. There are no hookups (water or electricity) so it is primitive camping," notes a visitor, adding that the site is "easily accessed via the paved highway."
Creek sounds: The sound of flowing water enhances many camping experiences near Greenbrier. "The sound from the creek was soothing," writes a visitor to Brown Creek Cascade Dispersed Campsite, where the nearby waterway provides natural white noise throughout the night.
Solitude: Camp Robinson Dispersed Site offers peaceful lakeside camping when not disrupted. "The lake has been partially drained to allow work to be done on stumps. The road back to it is well maintained... Peaceful and quiet. The birds and frogs sang all evening," reports a camper.
What you should know
Cell service variability: Coverage depends on location and carrier. At Dispersed FR132 Ouachita National Forest, "Had a few bars of T-Mobile service," while at Bayou Bluff, "There is no cell service on ATT - it showed only 'SOS'... I have a WeBoost and that still would not get a signal."
Road conditions: Most forest roads require careful navigation. "Roads are steep further back but well covered with gravel and very few large rocks, so you should be okay with most cars in good weather," notes a Forest Road 132 camper, adding "Expect to drive a ways between spots."
Restroom availability: Most dispersed sites lack facilities. One visitor to Mill Creek Recreation Area noted, "The bathrooms were closed, but that could have been due to COVID 19." At Camp Robinson, no toilets are available, requiring campers to plan accordingly.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection timing: Arrive early for best spots, especially at no-reservation locations. At Bayou Bluff, one long-time visitor notes, "I grew up camping here several times a year... There are 3 sites total, no reservations. But you never have trouble getting a spot unless it's a holiday weekend."
Shelter camping: Shirewood offers established sites with protection during inclement weather. With 100 sites available, the campground provides more options for families needing predictable accommodations and toilet facilities.
Swimming access: Water recreation options vary by location. At Bayou Bluff, "Swimming is a small but slightly difficult walk down a steep Rocky path," while other locations like Camp Robinson provide direct lake access when water levels permit.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller rigs only. At Brown Creek, the site is "suitable for tent camping, car camping, camper vans & truck campers. Two vehicles can easily fit on this level site," but larger RVs would struggle with access and turning radius.
Limited hookups: No electrical, water, or sewer connections exist at most locations. While some established campgrounds like Shirewood offer more amenities, dispersed camping is strictly primitive, requiring self-sufficiency and proper waste management.
Alternative parking: Some sites offer pull-through options for easier access. A reviewer notes the FR132 site has "a level pull-thru driveway which can accommodate about 2 or 3 vehicles. I believe this driveway can accommodate a truck camper."
