Dispersed camping near Havana, Arkansas centers primarily in the Ozark and Ouachita National Forests, where several free primitive sites exist along forest roads, creek beds, and lake edges. The Mount Magazine Wildlife Management Area contains multiple dispersed sites including Eickleberry Road, Buzzards Rock, and Spring Lake areas in the Ozark National Forest. Additional options include sites in the Nimrod Lake Recreation Area managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and various locations within the Ouachita National Forest, particularly around Jack Creek.
Access to many sites requires navigation on unpaved routes that vary significantly in condition. Forest Roads and County Roads leading to dispersed areas range from well-maintained gravel to narrow, eroded dirt tracks with occasional water crossings. Several locations, particularly those near Spring Lake and Jack Creek, may require high-clearance vehicles, while others present challenges during wet weather. Most dispersed sites feature primitive fire rings but offer no amenities such as toilets, drinking water, or trash service. Camping is generally permitted for up to 14 days. Some areas in the Nimrod Lake Recreation Area require permits, though most forest sites are free with no reservation needed.
The surrounding forests provide opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife observation. Several sites offer water access, including riverside camping along Fourche La Fave River and lake access at Spring Lake. According to reviews, many areas remain uncrowded even during peak seasons. "The site offers a beautiful view of the lake. Easy walking access to the bank for fishing," noted one camper about Spring Lake. Another mentioned that Jack Creek provides "a large wooded dispersed campsite that has a short path down to Jack Creek" where "fishing and wading are possible." Cell service varies significantly by location and carrier, with most remote sites having limited or no connectivity. During hunting seasons, increased traffic occurs in some areas, particularly in wildlife management zones.
"Exact location: 35.21834, -93.49261. Located in the Mt. Magazine Wildlife Management Area in the Ozark National Forest. Level dirt camping area that loops around a dead tree."
"I repeat DO NOT think you can use the pit toilets here. Be self contained and you’ll be fine."
"No water/electric or toilet. Secluded and safe. The sheriff drove through several times in the two days I was there. There are picnic tables, fire pits and a boat ramp."
"This section of the National Forest offers two hours gravel road through the forest. Please do your homework because the road signs are lacking."
"It was quiet & we were undisturbed until a couple of locals parked their pickups right next to us at 7 am. But they were in their boat & gone quickly."
"Coordinates: 35.02281, -93.81060. Located 2.5 miles past the entrance of the Jack Creek Recreation Area, and almost 1 mile past the turn off to the shooting range."
TravelerThe one semi level spot appears to be a homeless camp. Garbage everywhere, random wheel chair. Grass not mowed like it stated in other reviews. Still tons of constant dog barking. Beautiful view of the lake but definitely wouldn’t recommend staying for more than a night.
TravelerBeautiful, secluded spot. The vantage point faces the wrong way for the sunset, but if you enjoy watching the sunrise, this is the spot to do it. Sat in my chair and enjoyed my coffee and the show. Not much level ground, but plenty of rocks to level your vehicle if you're sleeping in or on it. Probably room for 3 rigs comfortably. A little bit of traffic on the dirt road, so expect a little dust as this site is right off the road. I think we saw about 4 vehicles, some slowed to reduce dust, some didn't. Some reviews said the road in was impassable, but I didn't even have to use 4wd, so they must have fixed it.
GuideEasy to get to off the main road. Spots are spread out with tables, grills and fire rings. The bathroom is disgusting with broken doors, didn't even look inside all the way. Water level currently too low to use the boat launch. Other than someone who arrived after dark and slept in their car on the boat ramp, we were the only ones there. Burn ban in effect while we were there. A park ranger did drive bys at 5:15am and again at 10:30am. Good for an overnight spot, very quiet and pretty. One bar with T-Mobile. Bonus persimmon trees along the shore!
RangerCool spot for one night! Lots going on for a Sunday night. Almost like people live out there. No one bothered us and we took our time. Pretty views and late enough in October that there weren’t many bugs and the temps were great. Picnic tables available but no other amenities.
TravelerRoad is just boulders and is washed out
TravelerIt was a little tough coming in from the north. There was trees down and messed my brackets on my solar up. I wouldn’t suggest anything larger than an extended van. The view is awesome and really peaceful
GuideI got there with Google maps at no problem. I found a small camp site with a rock fire ring . Which was perfect for my compact suv and 6 person tent. The signal for Verizon was really good and I got 5g. There's alot of little trails that you can walk. And getting there was a lot of twists and turns so I'd say drive slow at that point. But, its not that bad.
TravelerNot a bad spot. Lots of room and shade. Plenty of space to turn a truck and trailer around. Had full cell service. No water access and a fair amount of traffic during the week due to road repairs further down the road. Good views, you can actually see spy rock from the site.
ScoutThis would be a great campsite but too many people have trashed it. Cans, tp, and broken glass everywhere. Some local charity should clean it up.
Dispersed camping near Havana, Arkansas offers primitive sites throughout the Ozark and Ouachita National Forests at elevations ranging from 500 to 2,000 feet. The region experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures frequently exceeding 90°F and mild winters with occasional freezing temperatures and light snowfall. Most dispersed camping areas remain accessible year-round, though forest roads can become impassable during heavy rain events or after winter storms.
Wildlife watching opportunities: Several dispersed sites serve as excellent observation points for native species. At Ouachita National Forest Fourche Mountain, one camper noted, "This section of the National Forest offers two hours gravel road through the forest... On the path offers hidden creek waterfalls, lots of one way bridge and a serenity drive."
Fishing access: Multiple creeks and lakes provide fishing opportunities throughout the region. At Jack Creek Dispersed, campers can enjoy "a short path down to Jack Creek. Depending on the water level, fishing and wading are possible at the creek," according to a recent visitor.
Hiking trails: The forests contain numerous unmarked and maintained trails. The Sugar Creek hiking trail is accessible from Jack Creek area sites, while at Buzzards Rock Dispersed, "Buzzards Rock overlook is almost 1 mile away from the campsite - an easy hike down an OHV trail. Other OHV trails in the area are hikeable."
Secluded locations: Many campers appreciate the privacy at certain sites. At CR133/FR146 Hogan Creek Dispersed, visitors enjoy "a small dispersed camp site tucked away a short way from County Road 133/ Forest Rd 146... This is a secluded spot which can not be easily seen from CR133/FR146."
Natural sounds: The ambient noise from creeks and wildlife enhances the camping experience. One camper at Hogan Creek noted, "sounds of the creek can be head at this site," while another at Cane Creek Recreation Area mentioned "Nice sounds at night if you like the wildlife sleep track."
Scenic views: Many sites offer visual rewards. Spring Lake sites provide views of the water, while at Cane Creek Recreation Area, a visitor recommended to "Be sure to catch the sunset here. This has a beautiful setting even though it has been basically abandoned by the COE."
Vehicle requirements: Access roads vary significantly in quality. At Wards Crossing Dispersed, "Access to the site is on River Road which is gravel and a little pot-holed... Note that accessing it on Duck Pond Rd from the south, you have to cross the narrow Wards Crossing Bridge which has a 3 ton weight limit."
Site conditions: Prepare for basic, unimproved camping areas. At Creekside Dispersed near Hogan Creek, the "camping area is small with a small rock fire ring. The surface is rocky in places... Leveling may be required if camping in a vehicle."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Havana, AR?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Havana, AR is Eickleberry Rd Dispersed, Ozarks NF, AR with a 4-star rating from 1 review.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Havana, AR?
TheDyrt.com has all 55 dispersed camping locations near Havana, AR, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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