Tent camping options in Ouachita National Forest near Jones Mill, Arkansas range from basic dispersed sites to more established campgrounds with minimal facilities. Sites typically sit at elevations between 600-1,500 feet, with terrain characterized by pine-hardwood forests and rocky ridgelines. Summer temperatures often reach 90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder conditions with occasional thunderstorms.
What to do
Waterfront activities at Ozan Point: Located on DeGray Lake, this campground offers swimming access during hot summer months. A camper noted, "This quiet campsite is more tailored to primitive/tent camping with spread out spots including picnic tables and grill pits. For $10 a night (March 1 - October 31), this was a nice rest stop to cool off for a swim."
Creek exploration at Brown Creek Cascade Dispersed Campsite: Camp near the South Fork of Brown Creek with a short 1/4 mile hike to the cascade. A recent visitor shared, "Didn't have to drive too far down the road found a spot on the left. Nice stone camp fire circle, good flat spot for my tent, which is a four person."
Off-road adventures: Some of the best tent camping near Jones Mill, Arkansas involves traveling forest service roads to find secluded spots. A camper at Dispersed FR132 Ouachita National Forest reported, "Second spot was amazing— maybe 5-10 miles back of I had to guess. Roads are steep further back but we'll covered with gravel and very few large rocks, so you should be okay with most cars in good weather."
What campers like
Solitude and quiet: Many campers appreciate the remote nature of sites in the area. At Hickory Nut Mountain, a camper shared, "Hidden off road to the top for scenic view. If the gate is open then explore an hour worth moderate off roading. This place also offers great hiking trails and primitive camping. If you truly want to hide from the world, this is the place for a weekend solitude."
Lake views: Sites with glimpses of Lake Ouachita are popular. One visitor to Hickory Nut Mountain commented, "This is a gorgeous spot the view is amazing. Outhouse not so nice door doesn't lock. There is a fire ring, picnic table, grill and it's free. I spent 2 nights here and would definitely come back."
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer access to fishing. At Erwin Estate High Point, "Our natural spring pond is a place to fish where it's an almost guaranteed catch as we have stocked it well!"
What you should know
Bathroom facilities: Most primitive sites have no facilities. When available, vault toilets may not be well-maintained. A Hickory Nut Mountain visitor noted, "The restroom is a basically a portapotty so be prepared for that otherwise there are picnic tables, grills and fire pits."
Road conditions: Access to the most remote tent camping near Jones Mill requires navigating unpaved roads. A camper at Ozan Point - De Gray Lake shared, "Quiet place. Clean, more primitive and not developed. Does have flush toilets. Great place to go tent camping."
Variable cell service: Reception varies widely by location and carrier. At Hickory Nut Mountain, one camper reported "Nice view. T-Mobile cellphone reception," while other areas have no service at all.
Tips for camping with families
Choose established sites: For camping with children, sites with basic amenities are easier to manage. At Cedar Glades Park, though overnight camping is no longer permitted, the day-use areas offer family-friendly facilities.
Water access considerations: Lakes and creeks provide recreation but require supervision. At Ozan Point, a camper shared, "Great place alone or with kids. I keep coming back," referencing the lake access that makes this spot popular.
Wildlife awareness: The area hosts various wildlife. A visitor at COE Lake Ouachita Buckville Campground mentioned "Amazing water scenery" but families should be prepared for encounters with local wildlife including deer, birds, and occasionally wild hogs.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed sites can accommodate small trailers or truck campers but not large RVs. At Dispersed FR132, one camper noted, "This dispersed camp site has a level pull-thru driveway which can accomodate about 2 or 3 vehicles. I believe this driveway can accomodate a truck camper."
Leveling challenges: Many tent sites in the Ouachita National Forest require leveling. A camper at Hickory Nut Mountain observed that the area had "flat dirt spots" suitable for vehicle camping, noting, "I car camped without any problems."
Limited hookups: No dispersed sites offer hookups, and even established campgrounds have minimal services. Bring sufficient water and plan for no electric connections at primitive sites.
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