Dispersed camping near McNeil, Arkansas centers around Bois D'Arce Lake with multiple access points and camping areas. The region's mixed pine and hardwood forests create natural windbreaks in camping areas while seasonal water levels fluctuate, affecting shoreline access. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity from June through September, making spring and fall the preferred seasons for primitive camping in the area.
What to do
Fishing from shore: The Bois D'Arce Lake Peninsula offers excellent bank fishing opportunities with easy water access. One camper at Bois D'Arce Lake Peninsula noted, "Spent night here mid week..only a couple of vehicles came through," making it ideal for uninterrupted fishing.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings at the lake provide opportunities to observe local waterfowl. A visitor to Bois D'Arc Lake Wildlife Area shared, "I awoke to the sound of waterfowl and enjoyed coffee in the lake breeze," highlighting the natural experience available.
Boating access: Several dispersed sites provide boat launch access, though conditions vary seasonally. The peninsula area includes spots "surrounded on three sides by water," according to one camper, making it convenient for those with small watercraft.
What campers like
Privacy and quiet: The multiple dispersed camping options around McNeil provide secluded spots away from crowds. At Bois D'Arc Lake Wildlife Area, a camper mentioned, "There was another camper a good distance away," emphasizing the spaciousness between sites.
Waterfront sites: Many prefer the lakeside camping available at Crow Lake Primitive Sites where "there's a turnaround which could be used for a second campsite if you have a vehicle that can handle it," offering flexibility for waterfront access.
Free camping: No-cost camping remains a significant draw for the area. One visitor to Bois D'Arce Lake Peninsula commented it was "Easy to get to and great spots on the late! free!" making it accessible for budget-conscious outdoor enthusiasts.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many access roads to free camping areas are unpaved and can be challenging. At Sugar Creek Hunt Camp Dispersed, located about 40 miles from McNeil, a camper warned, "Super cute little spot. It had plenty of space/sites for big rigs, cars, tents, and hammocks. Established bathrooms and trash receptacles. Absolutely 0 service for AT&T or Verizon."
Permit requirements: Some sites require permits or check-in procedures. One frustrated camper at Ivan Lake Recreation Area noted, "you need a permit in order to stay here and you also need to check in and out every single time you leave the campground," an important consideration when planning.
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites offer minimal amenities. At Bois D'Arce Lake Peninsula, a camper described it as having a "Nice trail, be better after a rain. Level 1 for sure. Some dispersed sites towards end of this end. Residential before you get to end," indicating the primitive nature of the area.
Tips for camping with families
Insect preparation: The region has significant mosquito activity, especially near water. One visitor to Bois D'Arce Lake Peninsula warned of "hella mosquitoes," suggesting families bring appropriate repellent and protective clothing.
Local wildlife awareness: Free camping areas may have local dogs or wildlife. A camper mentioned, "2 Dogs running around. So please go speed limit through res'," highlighting the need for caution when driving through residential areas near camping spots.
Site selection: For families with younger children, selecting sites with natural boundaries can provide peace of mind. Spillway Landing by Cedar Bayou offers defined spaces with natural barriers that help contain play areas while providing water access.
Tips from RVers
Size considerations: Large RVs should carefully assess access before committing to roads. At Sugar Creek Hunt Camp, an RVer shared, "It's just a pull off area at the end of a two mile gravel road. It is a hunt camp so you might have a truck or two drive by but other than that we were the only ones out here so it was real quiet and there's at least three 'spots' where a big rig like ours (35ft) can fit just fine."
Leveling challenges: Many sites require significant leveling. One camper at Crow Lake Primitive Sites advised, "The one at the top of the slope is better for larger vehicles though. I'm not sure if my bus would easily be able to handle going down that slope, but someone drove around it very easily in a Jeep with no trailer."
Limited services: No hookups are available at dispersed sites around McNeil. RVers must be fully self-contained and prepared for primitive conditions, with the nearest dump stations located in larger towns.
