Dispersed camping near Mountain Pine, Arkansas provides access to over 1.8 million acres of Ouachita National Forest land. The area features rugged ridges with elevations ranging from 600 to 2,600 feet, creating diverse microclimates throughout the forest. Summer temperatures regularly reach 90°F with high humidity, while winter nights frequently drop below freezing, requiring campers to prepare for significant temperature fluctuations.
What to do
Hiking accessible trails: The Ouachita National Recreation Trail runs through sections of the forest near several camping areas. One camper reports, "Access to the Ouachita National Recreation Trail located nearby" with well-marked trailheads providing day hiking options directly from camp.
Swimming in forest waters: Irons Fork offers natural swimming opportunities during summer months. According to a visitor, "The place was beautiful and had plenty of lake access points too. I went in mid July so it was hot and humid but I was able to swim a bit to help that."
Wildlife observation: Early mornings and evenings provide optimal wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the forest. The Ouachita region hosts diverse species including white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and numerous bird species. Keep binoculars handy and maintain quiet around dawn and dusk for best results.
Forest exploration: Most dispersed sites allow for off-trail forest exploration. Several areas feature old logging roads and game trails for informal walks. Many sites are surrounded by mature oak-hickory forests with seasonal wildflowers and mushrooms.
What campers like
Sunset viewing spots: The Forest Service RD 132 Ouachita National Forest receives praise for its panoramic vistas. One camper notes, "Fantastic unobstructed view of the hills to the south" while another mentions, "Large site if you are sleeping on the ground bring plenty of padding it is rocky and not very flat. If you are in a rooftop there are plenty of rocks to level up on."
Privacy and seclusion: Many campers value the isolation found at these dispersed sites. A camper at Forest Service RD 153 Ouachita National Forest described, "This campsite has amazing 360 sunsets and sunrises... extremely rare traffic so minimal reminders of society!!!"
Fire ring availability: Nearly all dispersed sites include established rock fire rings. A visitor to one site mentioned, "There was a fire pit, prepared firewood, and a nice stump to chop more on." These existing fire rings help minimize impact while providing a focal point for evening camping activities.
Water proximity: Sites near creeks and lakes rank highly among campers. When water levels permit, these waterways provide both recreation and ambient soundscapes. One camper described a creek-side experience by noting, "A small creek runs along side the camp."
What you should know
Road conditions vary seasonally: Forest roads deteriorate significantly after heavy rains. A camper at Forest Service RD 153 Ouachita National Forest reported, "We couldn't even get to the campsite in our AWD Subaru Outback. There are drainage pipes exposed on the road." Call the ranger district for current conditions before travel.
Limited facilities: Even established dispersed areas offer minimal amenities. Vault toilets exist at only a few locations, and most have no waste facilities. A camper noted about Irons Fork: "There are bathrooms but they are RANK so just pee n poop in the woods."
Security concerns: While generally safe, some areas have experienced theft issues. One visitor reported, "Heard a big loud pickup truck w a trailer pull up at 5am... come to find they STOLE OUR PADLOCKED COOLER." Store valuables securely or keep them with you.
Wildlife preparedness: Black bears actively inhabit these forests. A camper advised, "It is black bear country, so just be smart about your waste and food storage." Hanging food supplies at night and maintaining clean campsites reduces encounters.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible shoreline areas: Irons Fork offers family-friendly water access with gradual entry points. A camper mentioned, "We were the only campers had a great spot on the water for a morning shower." These areas provide natural water play opportunities during summer months.
Weather contingencies: Summer storms develop quickly in the Ouachita mountains. Pack extra tarps and rain gear even during fair weather forecasts. Afternoon thunderstorms occur frequently during summer months, sometimes bringing high winds through the forest.
Bug protection: Ticks and mosquitoes present challenges, particularly from April through October. Long clothing and repellent are essential for comfortable camping. One visitor noted, "Bugs weren't much of an issue but we did use bug spray."
Site selection for shade: Seek sites with mature tree cover during summer to reduce heat exposure. Sites along ridgelines often receive cooling breezes but offer less shade. A camper observed one site had "Nice mature trees were there but didn't get in the way of our view of the lake."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller RVs only. Bear Creek Horse Camp offers slightly more room but still restricts larger vehicles. A visitor noted, "Four sites (2 official national forest sites with metal fire rings plus 2 dispersed sites with rock fire rings)... The trailhead is located at the rear of the camp."
Leveling challenges: Bring substantial leveling equipment as most sites feature uneven terrain. A camper at one location observed, "The site was not quite level, but workable. Fits one rig, truck camper and smaller."
Road clearance requirements: Higher clearance vehicles fare better throughout the forest. As one visitor reported, "There are some minor obstacles and washouts. I don't recommend this road for a 2WD passenger car; 4x4's with some high clearance should have no problem."
Solar limitations: Dense forest canopy restricts solar charging at many sites. A camper noted, "Sites are mostly shaded making solar recharging and Starlink access a challenge." Plan power usage accordingly or seek ridge-top sites with more direct sunlight.
