Dispersed camping sites around Mulberry, Arkansas dot the Ozark and Ouachita National Forests with options ranging from creek-side spots to mountain view locations. Forest Service roads lead to multiple primitive camping areas where seasonal conditions significantly impact accessibility. Weather patterns in this region can change rapidly with violent thunderstorms common during summer months.
What to do
Fishing access: At Cane Creek Recreation Area, campers can enjoy shoreline fishing with minimal crowds. "Lots of fishing" available, and "bring a boat" for better access to the water, according to one reviewer who also notes the "beautiful setting" despite being "abandoned by the COE."
Hike to waterfalls: Access nearby Big Shoal Falls from Eickleberry Rd Dispersed camping area. "Big Shoal Falls is located about a half-hour southwest along Spring Lake Rd (35.19472, -93.54479)," writes one camper who appreciated the area's quietness, noting there was "very little vehicle and OHV traffic."
Explore overlooks: Visit Spy Rock for panoramic views when staying at forest dispersed sites. "Spy Rock overlook is down the road and the view is spectacular. There are also nearby waterfalls to hike to," reports a camper who enjoyed the outdoor activities available from nearby camping spots.
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Jack Creek Dispersed offers secluded camping with creek access. "The campsite is well off of Jack Creek Road, down an undesignated dirt track, offering a lot of privacy," writes one reviewer who appreciates that "fishing and wading are possible at the creek" depending on water levels.
Wildlife viewing: Natural soundscapes and animal sightings enhance the rustic camping experience. One camper at Cane Creek mentions "nice sounds at night if you like the wildlife sleep track," while another warns, "if you use a flashlight, you WILL see eyeballs looking back at you from the other side of the water."
Night skies: Remote camping locations provide dark sky viewing opportunities. "Very quiet and peaceful night" with "wonderful nature sounds" reports a camper at Eickleberry Road who enjoyed the isolation from light pollution and minimal traffic.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies by location and carrier. In Morgan Mtn Rd/Spy Rock Dispersed, a camper found "T-Mobile has anywhere from one bar LTE to three bars of 5G" and could "stream video on my phone before bedtime each night," while at other sites like Jack Creek and Eickleberry Road, campers report no service at all.
Road conditions: Access roads deteriorate after rainfall. "The road was well maintained upon our arrival, but the frequent off-road vehicle traffic of the four wheelers and side-by-side that go by constantly have combined with the recent rains to degrade it," notes a Morgan Mountain Road camper.
Safety considerations: Law enforcement does monitor some areas. At Cane Creek, a camper observed "the sheriff drove through several times in the two days I was there," providing some security at this otherwise unmaintained site.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming spots: Several locations offer creek access for water play. At Near Devils Den, a camper noted it served as a "local stop in for swimming and fishing" with "nice walk trails along the water."
Bug considerations: Insect activity varies by location and season. "Insect surprisingly weren't that bad," reports a camper at Near Devils Den, which can be important information for families with small children.
Emergency planning: Limited cell service requires preparation. When one camper got stuck at Near Devils Den, they "had to call a tow company (by walking 15 minutes down the highway to get signal; no signal at all at the sites)," highlighting the importance of having emergency plans when camping with families.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller rigs only. At Lee Creek Off Road Site, a camper notes "I don't think a bus would fit but my 21ft. van was mostly a tight fit" and estimates the area has "just enough space for two car campers."
Leveling challenges: Many sites have uneven terrain. At Morgan Mountain Road, a camper warns "except for one small spot, the site is not level - slopes downhill a little toward the ridge. Camping rigs may need leveling depending on the parking spot."
Self-containment essential: No services means bringing everything needed. At Cane Creek, a camper advises "excellent free campground if you are self contained. No water/electric or toilet," emphasizing the need for RVers to prepare accordingly for rustic camping near Mulberry.
