The Ouachita National Forest surrounds Hot Springs, Arkansas with over 1.8 million acres of public land spanning elevations from 600 to 2,600 feet. Numerous forest roads throughout the area provide access to dispersed camping sites with varying levels of isolation and terrain challenges. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, while winter nights can drop below freezing.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Near Dispersed FR132 Ouachita National Forest, AR, campers can access the Ouachita National Recreation Trail. "Located along Forest Road 132 (Winona Scenic Drive) in the Ouachita National Forest, Saline County, Arkansas. Flatside Wilderness Area located across the road from the site. Access to the Ouachita National Recreation Trail located nearby," notes one visitor.
Creek exploration: Bear Creek Horse Camp offers creek access for wading and cooling off during hot days. The camp serves as "a small primitive camping area for equestrian riders on the network of interconnecting loop trails that comprise the Bear Creek Equestrain Trail system. These trails are also open to hikers. The trailhead is located at the rear of the camp."
Waterfall viewing: Brown Creek Cascade provides a short hiking opportunity for campers. "Located next to the trailhead for Brown Creek Cascade - a short 1/4 mile hike (includes a creek crossing)," explains a camper. The South Fork of Brown Creek runs behind this campsite, creating a peaceful natural soundtrack for overnight stays.
What campers like
Ridge-top views: Campers at Forest Service RD 153 Ouachita National Forest appreciate the expansive vistas. "This campsite has amazing 360 sunsets and sunrises. A bit rocky for tent campers but should have no trouble finding a spot for a 4 man tent," reports one camper. Another notes, "There is a good breeze as it is on the top of the ridge which would be great in summer but can get a bit nippy in the colder seasons."
Secluded locations: Many visitors enjoy the isolation found at North Fork Creek Rd (FR779) Dispersed sites. "Large wooded dispersed site in the Ouachita National Forest. Suitable for about 3 campervan-sized rigs...The site is setback well enough from the forest road so road dust coming into the site should not be an issue. During my stay, only 2 vehicles drove by."
Lake swimming: Free camping near the water at Harris Brake Lake offers opportunities for cooling off. "It was gorgeous and obviously well taken care of. We were by ourselves the whole night! Designated fire pits and an awesome view of the lake," shares one camper. Another noted, "absolutely beautiful place the fireflies here are amazing! Nobody else was camping here which made for some quiet nights. The locals fish and swim in the lake so light traffic."
What you should know
Road conditions vary: Forest roads can become challenging after rain. A camper at Forest Service RD 153 reports, "Forest road 153 between this site and Highway 7 appears to have been badly damaged by heavy rain and erosion. Looks like attempts were made to repair it, but still sketchy in places. There are some minor obstacles and washouts. I don't recommend this road for a 2WD passenger car."
Leveling challenges: Uneven terrain is common at many sites. At Forest Service RD 132, one visitor notes, "Large site if you are sleeping on the ground bring plenty of padding it is rocky and not very flat. If you are in a rooftop there are plenty of rocks to level up on."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity is spotty throughout the area. At Brown Creek Cascade Dispersed Campsite, a reviewer reports "No AT&T and T-Mobile cell service. Very quiet; no vehicles passed by during the night." Similarly, at North Fork Creek Rd, "There was no T-Mobile cell service at this site. I enjoyed camping here; beautiful spot and very peaceful."
Tips for camping with families
Look for water access: Sites near creeks or lakes provide natural entertainment for children. "The site is near the North Fork Ouachita River, which can be reached by bushwacking down a steep hill and over rocks. One can see the river from the site during the winter but not in the summer."
Pack for insects: Prepare for ticks and other bugs, especially in warmer months. At Harris Brake Lake, one camper warned, "There is a lot of ticks here I pulled 7 off of me and my dog in one night. Other than that it was wonderful."
Bring your own facilities: Most free camping near Hot Springs lacks bathroom facilities. If traveling with children, consider portable toilets. At Irons Fork, one visitor used "my own pop up toilet as there's is not close to being clean. It is bear country and others trash was gone through by wildlife in the bathroom."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller rigs only. At Gladstone Forest Road sites, a visitor notes they "should accommodate 4 rigs - truck camper size and smaller. Easy access from the forest road onto a mostly level dirt surface."
Arrival timing: Plan to arrive during daylight hours to navigate forest roads safely. A Harris Brake Lake camper advised, "Got here during sunset and it was beautiful but the gravel roads are invisible at night so definitely have some daylight ahead of you. We have a 25' travel trailer and didn't need to do any backing up to get in or out."
Bring leveling equipment: Most free camping sites near Hot Springs require some leveling. "The site slopes down slightly; some leveling may be required," notes a camper at Forest Service RD 29145 Ouachita National Forest.
