Tent camping near Morrilton, Arkansas presents primitive options within the Ouachita and Ozark National Forests at elevations ranging from 300 to 2,700 feet. The region experiences high humidity between June and September, with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons. Flash flooding can occur after heavy rains, particularly along creek-side camping areas.
What to do
Waterfall exploring: Haw Creek Falls Camping offers direct access to multiple waterfalls within walking distance. "The campground is located in the Ozark National Forest. Beware of flooding during the rainy seasons. When it rains a lot, the creek floods and covers the road into the campground," notes Lacee G. For more adventurous hikers, "Pam's Grotto was my favorite" hiking trail accessible from the campground.
Swimming in natural settings: During summer months, several swimming holes provide relief from Arkansas heat. "Swimming area is fantastic, a much needed relief after a hot day of hiking!" writes Samantha W. about Haw Creek Falls. At Bayou Bluff Point of Interest (POI), Stephanie M. notes, "Swimming is a small but slightly difficult walk down a steep Rocky path."
Night sky observation: The limited light pollution at Dispersed FR132 creates excellent stargazing conditions. "Camped here in February; very quiet. Only 2 vehicles drove by," reports Fred S., highlighting the minimal disturbance at night. Sites further from highways offer the darkest skies and best celestial viewing opportunities.
What campers like
Historic rock structures: At Bayou Bluff, campers appreciate the unique stone shelters built during the 1930s. "The stone buildings are so nice to set up somewhat out of the weather and have functional fireplaces," explains Valerie. Another visitor, Kristina K., adds, "Close to Trail heads - had an awesome covered, but open walls, rock building with a really cool fireplace."
Secluded fishing spots: The Illinois Bayou offers fishing opportunities near campgrounds. Rachel P. describes Bayou Bluff as having "Beautiful bluffs take you right down to the water," making it her "Favorite campsite in the spring." At South Fourche, campers can access "a canoe/kayak ramp for access to the South Fourche la Fave River," according to Fred S.
Off-grid tranquility: Most tent sites maintain a true wilderness feel without modern intrusions. At Brown Creek Cascade Dispersed Campsite, campers enjoy "Large pine trees on the site. Hammock camping is possible. No water (except for creek). No toilets nor showers... Very quiet; no vehicles passed by during the night. The sound from the creek was soothing."
What you should know
Water availability: Bring sufficient water supplies as most sites lack potable sources. Samantha W. cautions about Haw Creek Falls: "Something really important to note though is that there is NO WATER!! Bring your own water in to avoid making a half an hour trip to the nearest gas station!!"
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies dramatically across camping areas. Fred S. reports on Brown Creek: "No AT&T and T-Mobile cell service." Regarding Camp Robinson Dispersed Site, Julie A. had a different experience: "we had good cell reception with AT&T and Spectrum."
Seasonal closures: Heavy rainfall can restrict access to certain campsites. "The area is closed during times of intense rain, due to frequent flooding," warns David S. about Haw Creek Falls. Before traveling, check Forest Service websites or visitor centers for current conditions.
Maintenance concerns: Some campgrounds show signs of neglect. At Delaware Park, Matt S. observed, "it is a large park with nice campsites but no one seems to be maintaining the facility." Recent visitors to multiple sites report varying cleanliness conditions, making it advisable to bring trash bags.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife awareness: Prepare children for encounters with local wildlife. "Lots of snakes and saw a feral cat but so pretty," reports Layla B. about her stay at Haw Creek Falls. Parents should bring field guides to help identify safe versus potentially dangerous species.
Night noise considerations: Unexpected night disturbances can occur at less regulated sites. Mason G. shared this experience at Camp Robinson: "I woke up a 11am to someone driving in then 12:30am then at 1:30 a loud truck came in slinging rocks and a guy was screaming out the window. So I was packed up and was out by 2am."
Swimming safety: Natural water features require extra supervision. Stephanie M. notes about Bayou Bluff, "Swimming is a small but slightly difficult walk down a steep Rocky path," highlighting the need for proper footwear and close supervision of children near water.
Tips from RVers
Site sizing limitations: Most primitive sites accommodate only smaller rigs. At COE Nimrod Lake Carter Cove Campground, Jack W. observes, "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." Jason W. adds this site has "plenty of space for your camper and truck to park and not stick out into the road."
Road condition awareness: Forest roads leading to more remote sites can challenge larger vehicles. Sophia W. reports 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."
