Dispersed camping near Langley, Arkansas provides primitive sites scattered throughout the Ouachita National Forest at elevations ranging from 600-2,200 feet. The region receives approximately 50-55 inches of annual rainfall, making forest roads occasionally impassable during spring wet seasons. Most dispersed sites in this area are accessible via unmarked dirt tracks branching from main forest service roads.
What to do
Hiking access points: Several dispersed camping areas provide direct access to the 223-mile Ouachita National Recreation Trail. Buck Knob offers a convenient trailhead, with one camper noting, "Large dispersed site at the FR76/Buck Knob trailhead for the Ouachita National Recreation Trail. Should easily accommodate 3 campervan-size rigs."
Creek exploration: Jack Creek Dispersed features water access points for wading and fishing. According to a camper, "This is a large wooded dispersed campsite that has a short path down to Jack Creek. Depending on the water level, fishing and wading are possible at the creek."
Wildlife observation: The forest hosts diverse wildlife including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and various bird species. Watch for black bears, especially during spring and summer months. At North Fork Creek Rd Dispersed, one visitor shared, "I enjoyed walking along the forest road and strolling in the forest surrounding the site."
What campers like
Privacy levels: Many dispersed sites offer significant separation from other campers. At Pigeon Creek Dispersed, a camper described, "You're surrounded by trees, moss and running blue mountain spring water. What's not to love?"
Water proximity: Several sites feature access to creeks or rivers. One camper at North Fork Creek noted, "The site is near the North Fork Ouachita River, which can be reached by bushwhacking down a steep hill and over rocks."
Low traffic: Most forest roads in this region receive minimal vehicle traffic. A camper at Gladstone Forest Rd observed, "During my stay, only 2 vehicles drove by. There are no hiking trails nearby. I enjoyed walking along the forest road and strolling in the forest surrounding the site."
What you should know
Weather impacts: Forest roads can become challenging after rainfall. During wet seasons (typically March-May), 4WD or high-clearance vehicles may be required. At Fourche Mountain, one visitor advised, "Please do your homework because the road signs are lacking."
Site verification: Some dispersed sites may not match coordinates or can change seasonally. A Pigeon Creek visitor warned, "We drove slowly back and forth along the road exactly where the coordinates lead us to but there is no vehicle access to the forest there. It's completely overgrown."
Hunting activity: The area sees significant hunting use, particularly during deer seasons (October-December). A Fourche Mountain visitor noted, "Word of advice, best to stay away during hunting season as we spotted over ten deer hunters in the area in a single day; a hunting paradise as well."
Tips for camping with families
Safety considerations: Sites lack cell service and are remote. At North Fork Creek Rd, one camper reported, "There was no T-Mobile cell service at this site." Bring offline maps and emergency supplies.
Site selection: Choose established sites with level ground and existing fire rings. Mena Arkansas offers family-friendly options, with one visitor describing it as a "Good secluded spot for Privacy."
Wildlife precautions: Teach children proper food storage techniques. At Irons Fork, a camper observed, "It is black bear country, so just be smart about your waste and food storage."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most forest roads are suitable for smaller RVs only. Buck Knob Road has specific constraints, with one camper warning, "There are a couple of bridges on FR76 west of the campsite that are very narrow with railings; may be too narrow for a truck camper and larger to pass through."
Backing skills required: Many pull-offs require maneuvering. One visitor to Buck Knob advised, "It's tight...but it's 1500 feet. I have a CDL and back stuff all day. Don't try to pull in. Back in off the Buck Mountain."
Site leveling: Forest sites are rarely perfectly flat. One camper at Fourche Mountain noted, "Site is a little uneven, so chocks were helpful."
