Dispersed camping near Oark, Arkansas provides backcountry experiences in the rugged terrain of the Ozark Mountains, with elevations ranging from 800 to 2,000 feet. The region features numerous unmarked primitive sites along forest service roads, with most requiring self-sufficiency as water sources are limited to natural springs and creeks. Weather patterns can shift quickly in this mountainous terrain, with temperature differences of 10-15°F between valleys and ridgetops.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Access unnamed waterfalls by taking the 2-track trail from FR1802A on Meadows Knob Road. "There is a 2-track for hiking that leads down into Graves Creek Canyon and some unnamed waterfalls. The hike along this track is nice," notes Fred S. about FR1802A, Meadows Knob Rd Dispersed.
Rock climbing: Sam's Throne Recreation Area serves as a popular base for climbers. "This facility has day-use for rock climbing," explains Miranda M. "Lots of bluffs set up for that," adds Ivan M. about Sam's Throne Recreation Area.
Fishing opportunities: Cane Creek Recreation Area offers lakeside fishing access. "Nice sounds at night if you like the wildlife sleep track... Bring a boat, lots of fishing," suggests Sadie P., while Ed O. mentions the area has "a boat ramp" among its amenities at Cane Creek Recreation Area.
What campers like
Night sky viewing: The limited light pollution creates exceptional stargazing conditions. "On the right dark night you can see every star in the sky," reports bri about Sam's Throne. Amy A. notes at Morgan Mountain Road: "Even with the traffic, we did find some time to listen to the birds and sit in silence under the dark skies."
Wildlife encounters: The forests around Oark host diverse wildlife. "Bambi and her mom also seem to live here," mentions bri about Sam's Throne, while Devin R. warns about Cane Creek: "Be aware if you use a flashlight, you WILL see eyeballs looking back at you from the other side of the water."
Cell service in remote areas: Contrary to expectations, some primitive camping near Oark offers usable cell service. "T-Mobile has anywhere from one bar LTE to three bars of 5G extended to 2 bars 5G here. I was able to stream video on my phone before bedtime each night," reports Amy A. about Morgan Mtn Rd/Spy Rock Dispersed.
What you should know
Permit requirements: Wildlife Management Areas have different rules than national forest lands. "100% of Wildlife Management Areas in the state of Arkansas require a Hunting license or WMA camping permit purchased though Arkansas Game and Fish," explains Poopy B. about Gene Rush Wildlife Management Area.
Road conditions: Forest roads require careful navigation and appropriate vehicles. "Expect pinstriping along the access track to this secluded dispersed campsite. FR1802A toward the site has some erosion; low clearance vehicles may high center in one or two spots," warns Fred S. about Meadows Knob Road.
Seasonal crowds: Weekends draw more visitors, especially climbers to popular areas. "We started a five day camping trip on a Saturday and sure enough... the sites were packed. Many groups out there taking advantage of the beautiful March weather to hit the rock," notes Ashley F. about Sam's Throne, adding that "Once the weekend ended though, there were an average of 2 or 3 other occupied sites."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly sites: Look for established dispersed sites with easier access. "Coordinates: 35.69300,-93.76803. Large dispersed site with a view, especially in the winter, of the mountains to the west. Located along Morgan Mountain Road... Although eroded in spots due to recent heavy rains, Morgan Mountain Road was in good condition - no obstacles. A 2wd passenger car can carefully make it over the eroded areas," describes Fred S.
Pack entertainment: Limited amenities mean bringing your own activities. "We spent every day we were there exploring new spots and areas because the stretch of land is endless," shares Ashley F. about Sam's Throne, noting you can "drive 20 or so miles out to other beautiful spots like Pedestal Rock Scenic Area and Alum Cove Natural Bridge."
Safety preparations: Weather can change rapidly in the Ozarks. "Have a weather app, if you're not local storms here are fast to arrive and violent compared to other parts of the country," advises Sadie P. about Cane Creek Recreation Area.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for leveling: Find spots that don't require extensive setup. "The site is a level, dirt surface. Not a large site; okay for one rig," notes Fred S. about FR1802A. For Morgan Mountain, he cautions: "Except for one small spot, the site is not level - slopes downhill a little toward the ridge. Camping rigs may need leveling depending on the parking spot."
Self-contained camping: Most primitive sites near Oark lack facilities. "This is a great, and free, campground... No water, trash, or toilets," explains Kelly C. about Forest Service Rd 82 Dispersed, while Jeff F. adds about Morgan Mountain Road: "Site is large enough for 3, maybe 4 Overlanding Rigs. Couple established fire rings."
Access considerations: Scout roads before committing to remote sites. "Forest Rd. 82 has 3-4 spots, all about 1-2 miles in. There may be more the further you go, but I didn't go that far. Any car should be fine on the gravel road, just go steady on the way up!" advises Jon D.
