Dispersed camping near Nimrod Lake offers primitive sites throughout the Ouachita National Forest with elevations ranging from 400 to 1,100 feet. Winter camping provides better visibility and access to many sites, as summer vegetation can overtake clearings and pathways. Several dispersed areas require high-clearance vehicles, particularly after rain when forest roads experience significant erosion.
What to do
Explore forest hiking trails: The Ouachita National Recreation Trail runs near Dispersed FR132 Ouachita National Forest, providing hikers with easy trail access. One visitor noted, "Access to the Ouachita National Recreation Trail located nearby. Free dispersed site, no facilities."
Wildlife watching opportunities: Primitive camping areas around Nimrod Lake host diverse wildlife. At Harris Brake Lake, campers report, "the fireflies here are amazing!" While another camper mentioned, "we had heard two gray foxes screeching ALL NIGHT LONG."
Scenic drives on forest roads: The forest service roads themselves offer recreational value. Near Fourche Mountain, a camper reports, "This section of the National Forest offers two hours gravel road through the forest. Please do your homework because the road signs are lacking."
Fishing access points: Multiple primitive campsites provide water access for fishing. At Ward's Crossing, "A boat launch to the river is next to the site" giving anglers direct access to the Fourche La Fave River.
What campers like
Ridge-top panoramic views: Forest Service RD 132 Ouachita National Forest offers exceptional vistas according to campers. One review states, "Great spot; fantastic unobstructed view of the hills to the south. Some shade in the summer. Fantastic view during the winter season."
Secluded creek-side spots: The CR133/FR146 Hogan Creek Dispersed area provides creek access with natural sounds. A camper describes it as "a small dispersed camp site tucked away a short way from County Road 133/ Forest Rd 146... sounds of the creek can be heard at this site."
Wildlife watering holes: Some camping areas feature small ponds that attract wildlife. At FR 83W/CR84 Dispersed near Pond, "A pond, probably a wildlife watering hole, is a short walk through the woods behind site. The forest behind the site is nice; good area to walk and explore."
Prepared camping features: Occasional sites contain unexpected amenities. At Forest Service RD 132, a camper found, "There was a fire pit, prepared firewood, and a nice stump to chop more on. Very isolated, didn't see any cars past 7 pm."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements vary by location: Many forest roads require appropriate vehicles. On Forest Service RD 153 Ouachita National Forest, campers warn, "I don't recommend this road for a 2WD passenger car; 4x4's with some high clearance should have no problem."
Alternative route considerations: Some access roads become impassable. One camper at Forest Service RD 132 advised, "Google told me it had a faster option and I stupidly accepted. The dirt road starting at HWY-7 is virtually impassible to get to this campground."
Seasonal camping challenges: Winter provides better conditions at many sites. At Cove Mountain Group Dispersed, a review notes, "I wouldn't camp here in the summer; the grass and weeds are too high for comfort."
Weight-restricted bridges: Some access routes have infrastructure limitations. At Ward's Crossing Dispersed, "accessing it on Duck Pond Rd from the south, you have to cross the narrow Wards Crossing Bridge which has a 3 ton weight limit."
Tips for camping with families
Comfortable terrain selection: For tent camping with children, consider surface conditions. At Forest Service RD 132, a camper warns, "Large site if you are sleeping on the ground bring plenty of padding it is rocky and not very flat."
Wildlife encounters preparation: Ouachita National Forest Fourche Mountain has seasonal hunting activity. A visitor cautions, "Word of advice, best to stay away during hunting season as we spotted over ten deer hunters in the area in a single day."
Water safety planning: Several sites offer water access but require supervision. At Harris Brake Lake, "The locals fish and swim in the lake so light traffic."
Bug protection essentials: Insects can be problematic at lakeside camping areas. One camper at Harris Brake Lake reported, "There is a lot of ticks here I pulled 7 off of me and my dog in one night."
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Most primitive sites near Nimrod Lake require equipment for leveling. At Forest Service RD 153, a camper noted, "The site was not quite level, but workable. Fits one rig, truck camper and smaller."
Arrival timing considerations: Wards Crossing Dispersed and similar areas benefit from daylight arrival. As one camper at nearby Harris Brake Lake advised, "the gravel roads are invisible at night so definitely have some daylight ahead of you."
Size limitations assessment: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller recreational vehicles. At Ward's Crossing, "A small RV, small towable, truck camper and any rig smaller should have no problem accessing the site."
Surface evaluation for stabilization: Forest Service RD 153 campers note the terrain challenges: "This site has a rocky surface with sparse grass. High summer undergrowth around site."
