Dispersed camping areas near Powhatan, Arkansas provide primitive accommodations in the Ozark foothills region. Located primarily along the Current and Eleven Point Rivers, these free camping spots typically sit at elevations between 300-600 feet. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing with summer highs regularly exceeding 90°F, requiring campers to prepare for seasonal conditions.
What to do
**River activities: Access to kayaking and fishing opportunities along the Eleven Point River makes Whitten River Access a popular destination. "It has river access via a boat ramp and 'dock'. There are several level, clear places to camp with enough room for rv's," notes visitor Ralph S.
**Winter camping: For cold-weather adventurers, these areas remain accessible but require proper preparation. A visitor to Whitten River Access shares, "Arrived after dark. Found a level spot by the river, ground was frozen or it would have been muddy. No one around on this 5 degrees F night."
**Nature observation: The surrounding woodland areas provide habitat for diverse wildlife. The wooded setting at Greene Road Camp Dispersed offers opportunities for bird watching and quiet nature observation. Kevin S. describes the area as "Two pull in spots with concrete picnic tables in the woods."
What campers like
**Uncrowded experience: Free camping near Powhatan offers solitude and quiet surroundings away from developed campgrounds. The primitive setting appeals to those seeking fewer neighbors and more natural surroundings.
**Riverside locations: The proximity to water at several sites provides both recreational opportunities and pleasant camping environments. Visitors to Whitten River Access appreciate the "level, clear places to camp" located near the river.
**Accessibility without fees: No-cost dispersed camping options provide budget-friendly alternatives to fee-based campgrounds. These areas operate on a first-come, first-served basis without reservation requirements or camping fees.
What you should know
**Limited amenities: Facilities at these dispersed camping areas are minimal. Whitten River Access provides vault toilets but no drinking water or electrical hookups. Linda C. reports visiting during winter when "Access road is steep but not rough."
**Road conditions: Access roads to dispersed camping sites may present challenges, especially for larger vehicles. Rough gravel roads require slow travel and suitable vehicles. According to one camper at Whitten River Access, "The road in is rough gravel and a big rv will be slow going."
**Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts camping conditions significantly throughout the year. Winter camping remains possible but challenging, with freezing temperatures affecting both comfort and accessibility.
Tips for camping with families
**Pack all necessities: With no stores nearby, bring all food, water, and supplies needed for your stay. The remote nature of dispersed camping near Powhatan requires complete self-sufficiency.
**Prepare for variable weather: Temperature fluctuations can occur rapidly in this region. Pack appropriate clothing layers, rain gear, and sun protection for changing conditions.
**Plan activities in advance: Research nearby trails, fishing spots, and water access points before arrival. Without organized recreation facilities, self-directed activities will occupy children's time and attention.
Tips from RVers
**Vehicle size limitations: Larger RVs may struggle with access roads to dispersed camping areas. Visitors note that while RVs can reach these sites, travel will be slow due to road conditions.
**Level parking considerations: Look for the few level spots available upon arrival. At Whitten River Access, campers report finding "several level, clear places to camp with enough room for RVs."
**Self-contained setups: Without hookups or dumping stations, RVs must be fully self-contained. Plan for limited stay durations based on tank capacities and resource needs.
