The Ozark National Forest surrounding Oark, Arkansas sits at elevations between 1,000 and 2,500 feet, creating varied microclimates across dispersed camping areas. Forest service roads throughout the region range from well-maintained gravel to rough dirt tracks requiring cautious navigation, especially after rainfall. Many campsites near Oark feature creek or river access points, with seasonal water levels determining swimming and paddling conditions.
What to do
Mountain biking access: Trails near Mulberry Mountain Lodging & Events offer extensive off-road opportunities. "Near the Mulberry River and White Rock recreation area, the facility is an off road enthusiasts playground! Trails directly into the outback from the facility," notes visitor John F.
Stargazing opportunities: The remote location of many sites provides exceptional night sky viewing, particularly at higher elevations. At White Rock Mountain Recreation Area, campers experience remarkable celestial views. "Some of the reviews I read suggested that you need a four wheel drive vehicle to make the drive up... Peaceful spot, every star is visible. All of them," shares Steve J.
Fishing access points: Multiple water bodies around Oark provide fishing opportunities with varied catch potential. At Horsehead Lake Recreation Area, visitors note the site is "Good for fishin" though Kira M. cautions to "make sure you got a big truck there's a lot of flooded areas."
What campers like
Easy river access: Many campsites feature direct water access for swimming, paddling, or wading. At Redding Campground, "All sites can also easily access the comfort station - which is located across from the day-use parking area. We saw two water spigots - 1 across from the day-use, and one at site 16 - available for fresh drinking water," reports Melanie G.
Wildlife encounters: The forest surrounding Oark hosts diverse wildlife, including bears. One camper at Wolf Pen Recreation Area noted, "Coyotes passed by close our first night and it was neat to lay in my tent listening to them."
Budget-friendly options: Several dispersed and established sites offer low-cost camping. Ozone Recreation Area Camping provides "fire rings picnic tables and tent pads for only $3 per night. There is water at the main CCC Pavilion as you first enter the property," according to Dale H.
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Mountain elevations around Oark experience rapid weather changes, particularly in spring and fall. Pack accordingly with layered clothing and rain gear.
Limited supplies: Stock up before arrival as shopping options are sparse. The nearest significant groceries are 30+ minutes away in larger towns. One camper at Mulberry Mountain Lodging & Events advises, "Be sure to stop by the Oark Cafe in Oark, Arkansas, which is a 25-minute drive from the campground. They serve one of the best burgers in Arkansas (Wednesday-Sunday)."
Insect concerns: Prepare for seasonal pest activity, particularly ticks and flies. At Redding Campground, Suzsan M. warns, "Note: there are snakes and ticks. A lot of ticks. Take a flashlight with you in the dark and be cautious. I encountered a copperhead on my night time bathroom run."
Road conditions: Many campsites require navigating unpaved forest roads. Access improves in dry conditions but deteriorates after rain. For Morgan Mtn Rd/Spy Rock Dispersed camping, "The gravel road has some ruuts but it you take your time small SVUs can make it fine. Beautiful over look and clean campsite," reports Caitlin F.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming hole access: Several campsites feature natural swimming areas ideal for children. At Haw Creek Falls Camping, "The water was beautiful, eating dinner by the falls has become one of my new favorite camping memories in arkansas," shares layla B.
Toilet facilities: Campground bathroom conditions vary widely from well-maintained to primitive. "The bathrooms were pretty dirty. In theory $10/night but not worth paying for and very few campers did it appears. Has a prison style shower, blistering harsh spray but ice cold," notes Nathan H. about Redding Campground.
Space considerations: Sites vary in size and privacy, with some better suited for group camping. At Byrd's Adventure Center, "The sites are very spacious on the RV area, the smaller camper and primitive sites are very generous as well," according to John F.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV-friendly campgrounds offer varied amenities and access. At Aux Arc, "We went to back-in site 11, which is a river view with 50/30 AMP with water. There is no sewer here but you can use a hose connection to let your grey water drain on the ground," shares MickandKarla W.
Dump station locations: Plan waste management around available facilities. Aux Arc provides a "dump station located in the middle of the main CG and another outside the gate."
High clearance recommendations: Many forest roads require careful navigation with larger vehicles. White Rock Mountain requires caution: "I suggest you have an all wheel or four wheel drive vehicle with plenty of clearance. Leave your RV or trailer at home," advises Matt S.
