Rustic camping near Kirby, Arkansas centers on the Ouachita Mountain terrain, where elevations range from 600 to 2,600 feet throughout the region. The area experiences cold, occasionally snowy winters and humid summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F. Most campsites remain open year-round, though access becomes challenging after heavy rainfall.
What to do
Wildlife observation opportunities: Observe white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species throughout the forest. According to one camper at North Fork Creek Rd (FR779) Dispersed, "I enjoyed walking along the forest road and strolling in the forest surrounding the site. Access to the Ouachite National Recreation Trail is a 4-mile drive on forest roads to the south."
Riverside recreation: Several sites offer creek and river access for wading, swimming, and fishing. Near Bois D'Arce Lake Peninsula, visitors report, "Easy to get to and great spots on the late!" The peninsula offers multiple water access points for watercraft launching and shoreline fishing.
Forest road exploration: Navigate the extensive network of forest service roads for scenic drives. One visitor to Fourche Mountain notes, "This section of the National Forest offers two hours gravel road through the forest. Please do your homework because the road signs are lacking... On the path offers hidden creek waterfalls, lots of one way bridge and a serenity drive."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many dispersed areas offer substantial distance between camping spots. At Mena Arkansas, one reviewer appreciated their "Good secluded spot for Privacy" while others frequently mentioned being the only visitors at their chosen sites.
Lake views: Waterfront sites provide scenic vantage points for sunrise and sunset. A camper at Irons Fork highlighted that "The place was beautiful and had plenty of lake access points too. I went in mid July so it was hot and humid but I was able to swim a bit to help that. Some nice mature trees were there but didn't get in the way of our view of the lake."
Simple campsite features: Most primitive camping areas maintain minimal infrastructure with fire rings and cleared ground. At Turner Creek Road, one visitor described it as a "Very secluded spot no amenities just a rock fire ring. Very peaceful."
What you should know
Variable road conditions: Forest road quality changes seasonally and may require high-clearance vehicles. A camper at Bear Creek Horse Camp observed "Some minor erosion on FR772 where small creeks cross the road" while noting main forest roads remained in better condition.
Limited cell coverage: Most sites have poor or nonexistent cellular service. Multiple reviewers across different campgrounds specifically note "no T-Mobile service" throughout the region, requiring advance planning for navigation and emergency contact procedures.
Wildlife awareness: The area hosts black bears and other wildlife requiring proper food storage. One camper at Irons Fork advised, "It is black bear country, so just be smart about your waste and food storage."
Facility maintenance concerns: Vault toilets vary significantly in cleanliness. A recent visitor noted one facility was "very clean" while another Irons Fork camper warned that "there are bathrooms but they are RANK so just pee n poop in the woods."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming opportunities: Several lake and creek sites offer natural swimming areas for children. At Irons Fork, one camper shared, "I went in mid July so it was hot and humid but I was able to swim a bit to help that."
Prepare for limited amenities: Most areas lack running water or restroom facilities. One camper at Blue Knob Road advised, "You're in the middle of nowhere and it's gorgeous!" while emphasizing the need to bring all supplies.
Bug protection essential: Mosquitoes can be problematic, particularly near water and in summer months. A camper at Bois D'Arce Lake Peninsula warned, "Fires aloud, hella mosquitoes," suggesting families pack adequate repellent and protective clothing.
Security considerations: Some sites have reported theft issues. An Irons Fork visitor cautioned after someone "STOLE OUR PADLOCKED COOLER" during their stay, recommending extra vigilance with valuables.
Tips from RVers
Site access challenges: Many forest roads present clearance and turning radius limitations. At Gladstone Forest Rd Large Dispersed, one camper advised the site "Should accomodate 4 rigs - truck camper size and smaller. Easy access from the forest road onto a mostly level dirt surface."
Backing expertise required: Several sites demand careful vehicle positioning. A Blue Knob Road visitor with commercial driving experience warned, "I have a CDL and back stuff all day. Don't try to pull in. Back in off the Buck Mountain."
Vehicle size restrictions: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller recreational vehicles only. One camper at Blue Knob Road specified, "I have a 30ft Class C which is probably the largest vehicle you would want to drive down the dirt road to this site."
Leveling preparation: Bring leveling blocks for uneven terrain. At Fourche Mountain, one RVer noted, "site is a little uneven, so chocks were helpful" for stabilizing their vehicle.
