Tent campsites near Malvern, Arkansas provide opportunities for primitive camping experiences throughout the Ouachita National Forest region. The area features both lakeside locations and mountain retreats with elevations ranging from 500 to 1,400 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons offer milder conditions with daytime temperatures in the 60-70°F range.
What to do
Water activities at DeGray Lake: At Ozan Point, visitors can enjoy swimming in the lake during hot weather. "I found a site right on the water and went for a swim which was great given how hot it was," notes camper Erik C., who appreciated having a peninsula of the campground to himself.
Fishing opportunities: The Erwin Estate High Point offers a stocked pond where catching fish is almost guaranteed. As one camper explains, "Our natural spring pond is a place to fish where it's an almost guaranteed catch as we have stocked it well!"
Hiking local trails: For those seeking exercise, the Brown Creek Cascade Dispersed Campsite serves as a trailhead for the Brown Creek Cascade trail. "Located next to the trailhead for Brown Creek Cascade - a short 1/4 mile hike (includes a creek crossing)," reports Fred S., who visited the site.
Geology exploration: The mineral-rich terrain around Malvern offers chances to search for quartz and novaculite. At Erwin Estate, they encourage visitors to "take home a piece of this mineral rich area of the world! Free rocks to all!"
What campers like
Scenic viewpoints: The elevated camping at Hickory Nut Mountain provides memorable vistas. "Hidden off road to the top for scenic view. If the gate is open then explore an hour worth moderate off roading," recommends Jeff P., who values the solitude there.
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacing between tent sites in the region. At Ozan Point, one visitor noted it's "more tailored to primitive/tent camping with spread out spots including picnic tables and grill pits."
Wildlife viewing: Nature enthusiasts report frequent wildlife sightings throughout the camping areas. Candace R. discovered an unexpected gem at Hickory Nut Mountain: "We headed back down Pollard Creek Trail—what a surprise gem we found! Creek bed camping! Cool spring to cool off on this warm fall day."
Natural sounds: The sounds of moving water create a peaceful atmosphere at many primitive campsites. At Brown Creek Cascade, Fred S. reported, "Very quiet; no vehicles passed by during the night. The sound from the creek was soothing."
What you should know
Road conditions vary: Access to remote sites often requires traveling on unpaved roads. Hickory Nut Mountain camper Nicole G. warns, "It's a 4 mile drive uphill with only narrow gravel roads."
Limited amenities: Most dispersed sites lack running water, trash service, and other conveniences. "No water (except for creek). No toilets nor showers. No trash - take out what you bring in," explains a camper at Dispersed FR132.
Variable cell service: Phone coverage depends on carrier and location. Hickory Nut Mountain has "T-Mobile Cellphone reception," according to Mark F., while Brown Creek Cascade reportedly has "No AT&T and T-Mobile cell service."
Campsite availability: Popular sites may fill quickly during peak seasons. Arthur S. advises about Brown Creek: "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."
Firewood scarcity: Finding suitable firewood can require effort at some locations. At Brown Creek, campers "may need to hike a ways in the woods to find firewood," and one visitor noted they "had to walk a bit to find" decent wood to burn.
Tips for camping with families
Look for swimming spots: Lake access provides valuable recreation for children during hot weather. Phesha R. describes Point Cedar as a "great place alone or with kids. I keep coming back."
Choose established sites: Families often prefer campgrounds with basic facilities. Abby G. found Point Cedar suitable despite some minor issues: "Park Rangers were nice and helpful, the other campers were great! Overall a decent stay and would book again but in a different site."
Watch for wildlife: The forested areas provide educational wildlife spotting opportunities. Erwin Estate mentions "wildlife sightings: Eagle, White-tail Deer, Wild Hogs, Birds, Squirrel, and more."
Pack extra water: Most primitive sites lack potable water sources. Campers should bring 1-2 gallons per person per day, especially during summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller rigs only. Fred S. notes that at Brown Creek Cascade, "This campsite is suitable for tent camping, car camping, camper vans & truck campers. Two vehicles can easily fit on this level site."
Plan for limited hookups: Even established campgrounds may offer minimal RV amenities. Many sites have fire rings and flat parking areas but lack electrical or water connections.
Scout first when possible: Forest service roads vary in condition and may present challenges. Sophia W. advises about Dispersed FR132: "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."
