Best Dispersed Camping near Norfork, AR

Dispersed camping opportunities near Norfork, Arkansas include several primitive sites within a 50-mile radius. Matney Knob offers basic dispersed camping accessed via a decent road from the trailhead. Woolum Dispersed Area along Buffalo National River provides riverside camping with vault toilets and fire rings but no drinking water. Sam's Throne Recreation Area features free primitive sites with vault toilets and established fire rings. Gene Rush Wildlife Management Area has designated campsites requiring permits from Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.

Most dispersed sites in this region require campers to be self-sufficient. No potable water is available at these locations; all water must be packed in or filtered from natural sources. Cell service ranges from patchy to nonexistent, particularly in wilderness areas. According to reviews, Hercules Glades Wilderness Area has "limited to no cell service for assistance should you encounter danger." Fire restrictions change frequently and are posted at trailhead kiosks. Pack out all trash as no collection services exist at these sites.

Wildlife Management Areas require special consideration. A $5 camping permit from the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission is mandatory for Gene Rush WMA. As one camper noted, "This isn't the national forest, you can't just pull off and camp anywhere you please." Hunting seasons run September through May, potentially affecting camping experiences. Several campers reported encounters with wildlife including deer and snakes, particularly during warmer months. Weather conditions vary significantly by season, with late September offering cooler nights and sunny days. Spring visitors may encounter seasonal road closures due to flooding or erosion, as experienced at Woolum where "the final stretch of access road was blocked off due to erosion" according to National Park Service notices.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Norfork, Arkansas (11)

    2. Woolum Dispersed Area — Buffalo National River

    7 Reviews
    St. Joe, AR
    36 miles
    Website

    "So many options to make your home away from home! Grassy meadows or river side oasis, you choose! This is definitely the place to go to enjoy magnificent scenery and not be distracted by technology."

    "I just tried to make a trip up there at the end of April (2022) and the final stretch of access road was blocked off due to erosion according to NPS. Not sure when main road will reopen."

    3. Sam's Throne Recreation Area

    16 Reviews
    Mount Judea, AR
    47 miles
    Website
    +1 (870) 446-5122

    "There are surrounding trails that lead to some nice spots for a stunning sunset. These seem to be free established campgrounds, not dispersed."

    "There are a few bears in the region so I would hang my food just to be safe. There aren't any specific spots for RV's but there are a few cleared areas with room to park an RV or trailer."

    4. Gene Rush Wildlife Management Area

    4 Reviews
    Vendor, AR
    43 miles

    "100% of Wildlife Management Areas in the state of Arkansas require a Hunting license or WMA camping permit purchased though Arkansas Game and Fish."

    "Spoke with Arkansas Game and Fishing Commission Ranger. No despersal camping but you can camp in the 2 designated campsites. Well designated, my post is on the further east site from Carver."

    5. Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area

    4 Reviews
    Bradleyville, MO
    46 miles
    Website

    "This area is a wilderness area so camping is plentiful.  However in this particular are there is no organized campsite specifically.  "

    "Hercules Glades Wilderness Area is part of mark Twain National Forest. It's a bit off the beaten path, but worth it for a day hike or a bit of backpacking."

    6. Hercules Glades (Watch Tower)

    3 Reviews
    Bradleyville, MO
    46 miles

    "We got here on a pretty hilly/twisty road late at night, found a spot close to the trailhead and had a quiet, peaceful night sleep. We saw just one other camper with a trailer close to the inlet."

    "Nice camping spots at the trailhead for Hercules glades. It was a beautiful, quiet area."

    7. Falling Water Creek

    1 Review
    Witts Springs, AR
    48 miles

    8. Blair Ridge Rd Dispersed

    1 Review
    Greeson Lake, MO
    46 miles
    Website
    +1 (573) 364-4621

    "Tried to camp out before backpacking through Hercules Glade Wilderness but the trailheads were packed (weekend). There are two fire rings along this road. Both locations have full bars (Verizon)."

    10. Sycamore Loop Dispersed

    1 Review
    Willow Springs, MO
    49 miles
    Website
    +1 (573) 364-4621
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Showing results 1-10 of 11 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Norfork, AR

32 Reviews of 11 Norfork Campgrounds



Guide to Norfork

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Norfork, Arkansas, where nature's tranquility awaits. With stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities, these spots offer a perfect escape for adventurers and nature lovers alike.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Norfork, Arkansas

  • Be prepared for a primitive experience at the Woolum Dispersed Area — Buffalo National River, where you'll find no amenities like drinking water or picnic tables, but the scenic riverbank makes it worthwhile.
  • Bring your own firewood and supplies, as the Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area has no facilities and requires you to be self-sufficient.
  • Keep an eye on local regulations regarding campfires and wildlife, especially in areas like Sam's Throne Recreation Area, where you can enjoy the serenity of nature while respecting the environment.

Dispersed campers should check out the stunning scenery

  • The Falling Water Creek area offers breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for those looking to unwind by the water.
  • For a unique experience, visit the Hercules Glades (Watch Tower), where you can enjoy hiking trails that lead to beautiful vistas and secluded camping spots.
  • Explore the lush landscapes at Gene Rush Wildlife Management Area, where you can immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the tranquility of the outdoors.

Adventure awaits with top activities while free camping near Norfork

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Norfork, AR?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Norfork, AR is Matney Knob disbursed with a 3-star rating from 1 review.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Norfork, AR?

TheDyrt.com has all 11 dispersed camping locations near Norfork, AR, with real photos and reviews from campers.