Dispersed tent camping options around Mayflower, Arkansas primarily exist within Ouachita National Forest and neighboring public lands. The region features rolling pine-covered hills at elevations ranging from 300-1,500 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach highs of 90-95°F with humidity levels exceeding 70%, while winter camping presents milder conditions with daytime temperatures averaging 45-60°F.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Conway near Camp Robinson Dispersed Site offers accessible fishing spots. "Great spot to pitch a tent by lake Conway. Isolated but not too far out," notes camper Rylie R. Though portions of the lake may be seasonally drained for maintenance work.
Swimming spots: The Illinois Bayou near Bayou Bluff Point of Interest provides natural swimming areas. "There is a creek to swim or fish in, there are personal pavilions and a larger pavilion for big groups. There is a hiking trail directly from the camp ground," writes Tanda P., who has camped there for over 20 years.
Hiking trails: Access the Ouachita National Recreation Trail from Forest Road 132 dispersed sites. One camper observed, "Second spot (pictured) was amazing— maybe 5-10 miles back of I had to guess. There are a few forest service roads back here so pay attention to the signs." Multiple trailheads connect to the main trail system.
What campers like
Historic stone structures: Unique CCC-built rock shelters at Bayou Bluff provide practical amenities. "The stone buildings are so nice to set up somewhat out of the weather and have functional fireplaces. The walk to the river is very easy," explains camper Valerie.
Wildlife viewing: Early morning and evening hours bring active wildlife near tent sites. "The birds and frogs sang all evening," notes Julie A. about her experience at Camp Robinson. The ambient natural sounds enhance primitive camping experiences across most sites in the region.
Privacy levels: Dispersed camping along Forest Road 132 offers varied isolation options. A camper mentions, "Stayed at two different spots here... Second spot was amazing— maybe 5-10 miles back... Expect to drive a ways between spots." Campsites further from main roads typically provide greater seclusion.
What you should know
Access considerations: Many tent camping sites near Mayflower require navigating gravel roads. At Brown Creek Cascade Dispersed Campsite, a camper noted, "Located on the gravel Brown Creek Road in Perry County, Arkansas. The South Fork of Brown Creek runs behind this campsite." Road conditions vary seasonally.
Limited amenities: Most dispersed sites lack basic facilities. "No water (except for creek). No toilets nor showers. No trash - take out what you bring in. May need to hike a ways in the woods to find firewood," writes one camper about Brown Creek Cascade.
Weather challenges: Summer heat combined with high humidity affects tent camping comfort. One camper at Camp Robinson noted, "90 degrees. Summer swampy area. Picked up a med bag of trash; cans, bottles, and paper. Looks better now. I definitely put on bug spray right away."
Tips for camping with families
Safety preparations: When tent camping with children in Mayflower, Arkansas, bring necessary first aid supplies. "South Fourche is a nice campground in Ouachita National Forest... It has a small mens and womens bathroom. Each site has a picnic table and a metal fire pit with a grate," notes Ethan K., highlighting basic amenities.
Easy access sites: For families, choose established sites closer to main roads. "South Fourche is a nice campground... It is a pretty small campground and I assume stays pretty quiet (so would be good for groups that want lots of privacy)," reports one camper, noting the balance of accessibility and seclusion.
Educational opportunities: Teach kids about local ecology through easily observed wildlife. At Bayou Bluff, "There is a creek to swim or fish in... There is a hiking trail directly from the camp ground. Down the road you can bushwack to Penhook falls," mentions a long-time camper, describing kid-friendly activities.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed sites around Mayflower accommodate smaller rigs only. At Carter Cove Campground, "The sites are a little tight for larger rigs to maneuver and many sites don't have water. The water connections were kind of far from the site so had to use longer hose," advises Jack W.
Level parking: Finding level spots for camping vehicles requires advance planning. For Forest Road 132, one reviewer noted, "This dispersed camp site has a level pull-thru driveway which can accommodate about 2 or 3 vehicles. I believe this driveway can accommodate a truck camper."
Utility connections: For tent camping near Mayflower with vehicle support, plan for limited hookups. "Clean, kid friendly campground with RV and tent sites available, 30 amp electric and water, bathrooms are kept clean and have showers," notes a Carter Cove camper, though most dispersed sites lack these amenities.
