The Ouachita National Forest surrounding Boles, Arkansas sits at elevations ranging from 600 to 2,600 feet with dense pine-hardwood forests and multiple waterways cutting through the mountains. Primitive tent camping near Boles offers secluded sites along several rivers and creeks where water levels can change rapidly after rainfall. Summer temperatures typically reach the upper 80s while spring brings significant precipitation that affects trail and campsite conditions.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Long Creek Campsite on the Eagle Rock Loop, campers can find productive fishing spots close to their tent. One visitor reported, "Perhaps 100 feet up river from our campsite I found a nice fishing hole and caught and released 7 trout and 1 sunfish within about 1 hour."
Waterfall exploration: The hiking trails near Cossatot Falls Campsites provide excellent waterfall viewing, especially after rainfall. A camper shared, "We parked at the visitor center and hiked the 5-6 miles to the state park. Beautiful moderate hike. If you go right after some heavy rain, all the falls along the trail will be flowing at full blast!"
Rock climbing and boulder hopping: The rock formations throughout the region create natural climbing opportunities. As one visitor noted about Cossatot Falls, "It's not for the faint or heart or people avoiding physical activity because trekking the huge river boulders is not easy. But the beauty is worth it. The water is crystal clear and you can watch fish swim by."
What campers like
Spacious tent sites: Many campgrounds offer larger-than-average tent pads. At Cossatot Falls, a camper observed, "We typically don't camp in regular campgrounds, we prefer more separation. We also have a large 20' tent that makes it difficult to fit into regular square pad tent sites. These pads were huge and fit our tent."
Creek sounds: Jack Creek Recreation Area and similar sites offer the natural ambiance of flowing water. According to a reviewer, "When the weather is nice, there's a swimming hole. I will be returning here someday. It's too beautiful to pass up while driving through the area!"
Wildlife viewing: The forests around tent sites host diverse animal species. A visitor camping at Straight Creek Campsite noted, "On your hike into this site you will be rewarded with beautiful scenery as you walk through majestic forests of oak, pine and maple. You'll also see a variety of flowers and plants."
What you should know
Flash flood risks: Several campgrounds in the region have experienced dangerous flooding. At Albert Pike Recreation Area, a camper warned, "This area is superb for primitive camping along the mountain road side pulloffs. Area is prone to severe flash flooding so know the weather before heading out."
Changing campground status: Some sites have changed from overnight to day-use only. At Rocky Shoals, a visitor reported, "Rocky Shoals is a former campground turned day use only area, only open from 6am to 10pm. This location has four sites now just for picnicing only."
Limited facilities: Most tent sites have minimal amenities. For Big Brushy campground, a reviewer noted, "This campground has 4 camp sites which accommodate tent, or rooftop tent. There are no hookups. Very quiet little campground, however you are just off the highway and will have road noise."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming spots for kids: Cossatot Falls Campsites offers safe water play areas. A family camper shared, "I absolutely loved this campground. The tent pads were huge and the waterfall area was beautiful. Our children enjoyed climbing on the rocks and splashing in the river."
Tent site selection: Choose sites away from potential flooding zones. One camper at Big Brushy noted, "The Big Brushy Creek is right beside the campground and has several walking trails down to the creek. This creek floods quickly and there are signs located through the park indicating it is a flash flood area, so be aware."
Insect preparation: The region has significant insect activity in warmer months. A hiker at Straight Creek advised, "During the spring and summer the insects can be intense. I advise treating clothing and gear with permethrin to prevent ticks and pacaridin for other insects."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most sites in the immediate Boles area accommodate tents only. For RV camping at Jack Creek, a visitor noted, "It's primitive but bathrooms are available. It's small and very popular with the locals. Off season it's relatively quiet."
Access road challenges: Many forest roads require high-clearance vehicles. At Cossatot Falls, one RVer reported, "Love this camping spot!! Right next/near the Cossatot river/rapids with easy access spot. Wish I could say the same thing about the gravel logging road in! O.o OH MY LORT!! It will test your suspension!!"
Generator considerations: Some campgrounds allow generators despite their natural setting. A camper at Cossatot Falls mentioned, "They did allow generators which is unfortunate because the river is so close. Part of what we love about camping is being in nature and hearing the sounds around us but one person's generator use ruined the quiet."
