Dispersed camping options near John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake span across two national forests with elevations ranging from 700-2,500 feet throughout the Ozark and Ouachita regions. Weather conditions vary dramatically by season with summer highs regularly exceeding 90°F while winter nights frequently drop below freezing. Most primitive sites require visitors to navigate unmarked forest service roads that deteriorate significantly during wet seasons.
What to do
Hiking to overlooks: At Morgan Mtn Rd/Spy Rock Dispersed, campers can access the Spy Rock trail directly from camp. "Spy rock is gorgeous, the trail is a little rough but totally worth it. Trail head is on the right about a mile past camp," notes a visitor who appreciated the panoramic views.
Creek exploration: Several primitive sites offer water access for summer cooling. The Jack Creek Dispersed area provides "a short path down to Jack Creek. Depending on the water level, fishing and wading are possible at the creek," according to recent campers.
Wildlife spotting: The deep forest locations provide excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. After sundown at many sites, one camper mentioned, "We were able to listen to the birds and sit in silence under the dark skies," while fireflies create natural light shows during summer months.
What campers like
Mountain vistas: The Forest Service Rd 82 Dispersed area offers exceptional views. "Forest Rd. 82 has 3-4 spots, all about 1-2 miles in. There may be more the further you go, but I didn't go that far. Easy access to the Redding Recreation Area for fishing/swimming," reports one camper.
Multiple site options: The Dispersed Near Devils Den area features "multiple really nice and spread out spots with nice huge firepits" according to a recent visitor, though access requirements have changed.
Natural swimming holes: Many campsites provide creek access for cooling off. A camper at one site found "Nice walk trails along the water. Local stop in for swimming and fishing. Insect surprisingly weren't that bad."
Privacy between sites: The dispersed nature of camping means many sites feel isolated. A visitor noted their spot had "a downed tree blocks part of the view, but still has a beautiful panoramic view of the surrounding mountains."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many forest roads deteriorate seasonally. One camper warns, "The gravel road has some ruuts but it you take your time small SVUs can make it fine." Another advised, "Just go slow, as there are some ruts from previous rains."
Vehicle limitations: At Lee Creek Off Road Site, a visitor noted: "I don't think a bus would fit but my 21ft. van was mostly a tight fit. A good public land spot with just enough space for two car campers."
Changing regulations: Some areas have new restrictions. A camper warned that "the forest service does NOT allow cars to drive on these roads anymore, and that is why they added guard rails. They told me that camping is fine as long as you park on the turnout by the highway and walk in."
Limited facilities: Without exception, these sites lack amenities. Pack water and sanitation supplies as one camper confirms: "No toilets/showers/dumpsters/trash cans."
Tips for camping with families
Safety near water: When camping with children, select sites away from steep creek banks. Jack Creek Road Dispersed offers "a large site with a large rock fire ring, set back a little from Jack Creek Road" with potential water access that can be monitored.
Space considerations: Choose larger sites for family camping. One visitor found their spot "is large, but only part of it is level enough to camp on in my opinion."
Vehicle accessibility: Some sites require careful navigation with family vehicles. A camper noted, "The entryways are a little tight for vehicles, but I made it in my sprinter van so everything else should be just fine."
Temperature planning: Summer camping requires shade while winter demands wind protection. A camper observed one site had "Good amount of shade for when it's hot and good amount of trees to hang tarp when it's raining."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller rigs only. The Jack Creek Rd Pull Thru Dispersed site "can easily accommodate 2 vehicles, truck camper size and smaller, parked one behind the other" according to a recent visitor.
Leveling challenges: Many sites have uneven terrain. Campers note that most areas have "a level dirt surface" but some "slopes downhill a little toward the ridge. Camping rigs may need leveling depending on the parking spot."
Road clearance requirements: Forest roads require careful navigation. A camper advised, "Altough eroded in spots due to recent heavy rains, Morgan Mountain Road was in good condition - no obstacles. A 2wd passenger car can carefully make it over the eroded areas."
Turnaround space: Some sites offer better maneuvering room than others. One RVer found a site that was "a small pull though campsite with a small rock fire ring, close to Jack Creek Road," making exit easier than back-in spots.
