Best Dispersed Camping near Hot Springs National Park, AR
The Ouachita National Forest provides numerous dispersed camping opportunities surrounding Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas. Forest Service roads 132, 153, and 779 feature several free primitive sites with established fire rings and minimal development. Most dispersed areas are located within 30-45 minutes of Hot Springs, with concentrations along Winona Scenic Drive (FR 132) and near the North Fork of the Saline River. These public lands permit camping without reservations or fees, though campers must follow Leave No Trace principles.
Forest roads throughout the Ouachita National Forest vary from well-maintained gravel to rough, eroded tracks requiring high-clearance vehicles. Several reviews note that Forest Road 132 has deteriorating conditions with rocky sections and erosion problems, while others remain accessible to standard passenger vehicles when dry. Most sites lack amenities - no toilets, trash service, or drinking water are available. Fire restrictions apply seasonally, and campers must pack out all waste. Cell service is spotty, with T-Mobile coverage reported at some locations but absent at many others. A recent review noted that "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."
The dispersed camping experience in this region offers solitude and natural beauty. Sites range from forested settings to areas near creeks and rivers, with some providing access to the Ouachita National Recreation Trail. According to one visitor, "only 2 vehicles drove by during the night. The sound from the creek was soothing." Another camper mentioned that some areas feature "a beautiful view of the lake" with "plenty of lake access points." Winter and early spring typically provide better camping conditions as summer brings high grass, weeds, and humidity. Sites along Forest Road 132 provide access to Flatside Wilderness Area and connections to hiking trails. The region's mix of creek-side camps, forest settings, and lake-view sites creates diverse options for primitive camping experiences.
