Dispersed camping near Murfreesboro, Arkansas stretches across the Ouachita Mountains, with most sites situated at elevations between 500-2,300 feet. The region experiences humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons, making spring and fall particularly suitable for primitive camping. Summer temperatures often reach 90°F with high humidity, while winter nights can drop below freezing, requiring appropriate gear for seasonal conditions.
What to do
Swimming access points: Irons Fork provides multiple lake access spots for cooling off during hot months. A camper notes, "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."
Hiking the Ouachita Trail: Blue Knob Road camping area connects to the Ouachita National Recreation Trail with multiple trailheads. One visitor mentions, "There is a clearing near the Ouachita Trail with a fire pit and plenty of space to park."
Wildlife viewing: Turner Creek Road offers secluded spots where visitors often encounter native wildlife. "Very secluded spot no amenities just a rock fire ring. Very peaceful," reports one camper, highlighting the undisturbed natural setting.
What campers like
Complete solitude: Many sites offer isolation from other campers, particularly during weekdays. At Bois D'Arce Lake Peninsula, one visitor reports, "Spent night here mid week..only a couple of vehicles came through," indicating minimal traffic even at popular sites.
Affordability: Free camping is available throughout the region with no permits required at most locations. "Perfect Overnight Spot" is how one camper describes their experience, appreciating the value.
Lakefront views: Mena Arkansas dispersed sites offer privacy with water views. One camper calls their site "Good secluded spot for Privacy," reflecting the appeal of these remote locations.
What you should know
Bear safety protocols: The Ouachita region is black bear country, requiring proper food storage. An Irons Fork camper advises, "It is black bear country, so just be smart about your waste and food storage. We had about 1-2 bars of AT&T coverage, but the road leading in has some better signal."
Bathroom conditions: Public facilities at developed dispersed sites may be poorly maintained. "There are bathrooms but they are RANK so just pee n poop in the woods," warns one camper about Irons Fork, while another notes, "I used my own pop up toilet as there's is not close to being clean."
Security concerns: Some sites have reported theft issues. One Irons Fork camper reports, "Heard a big loud pickup truck w a trailer pull up at 5am... come to find they STOLE OUR PADLOCKED COOLER," suggesting visitors should secure valuables or keep them out of sight.
Tips for camping with families
Insect preparation: Summer months bring significant mosquito activity. At Bois D'Arce Lake Peninsula, a visitor warns, "Fires aloud, hella mosquitoes. Dogs around too," suggesting families bring appropriate repellent, especially May through September.
Lake swimming options: Several sites offer shallow water entry points suitable for children. "We were the only campers had a great spot on the water for a morning shower," notes one Irons Fork visitor, indicating clean, accessible water areas.
Alternative sleeping arrangements: Blue Knob Road in Ouachita National Forest provides level areas suitable for vehicle camping when tents prove uncomfortable in extreme weather. "I'm happy we visited, but not happy about the humidity - I am thankful we were able to sleep in the car though!" shares one visitor who found this adaptation helpful during humid conditions.
Tips from RVers
Vehicle size limitations: Most forest roads accommodate only smaller RVs and trailers. A CDL driver advises about Blue Knob Road, "I have a CDL and back stuff all day. Don't try to pull in. Back in off the Buck Mountain."
Maximum length considerations: RVs exceeding 30 feet may find many dispersed sites inaccessible. "I have a 30ft Class C which is probably the largest vehicle you would want to drive down the dirt road to this site," reports a Blue Knob Road camper.
Road condition awareness: Rain can significantly impact accessibility on unpaved routes. "Nice trail, be better after a rain. Level 1 for sure," notes one camper about forest road conditions, suggesting checking weather forecasts before attempting access with larger vehicles.
