Dispersed camping options near Oark, Arkansas range from secluded riverside spots to established campgrounds within the Ozark National Forest. The area sits at elevations between 1,000-2,000 feet with steep terrain leading to many water features. Summer temperatures typically reach the mid-90s while winter nights can drop below freezing, making early fall and late spring the most comfortable camping seasons.
What to do
Swimming and wading: Haw Creek Falls offers a natural swimming hole that provides relief during hot weather. "Swimming area is fantastic, a much needed relief after a hot day of hiking! Something really important to note though is that there is NO WATER!! Bring your own water in to avoid making a half an hour trip to the nearest gas station!!" notes Samantha W. at Haw Creek Falls Camping.
Waterfall exploration: The Bayou Bluff area features unique stone structures near water features. According to Amy W., "This recreation area is as close to off-grid as you can get with so many great options right off the pavement. When the water is low enough, go down to the water and walk along the creek."
Rock climbing: For more adventurous campers, Horseshoe Canyon Ranch offers extensive climbing opportunities. Tabatha C. states, "The prices werent tremendously bad, and HCR also provided tons of routes to hit. Very satisified with my visit!" This destination attracts climbers from across the region.
River floating: Set up camp then arrange a shuttle for river trips. At Riverfield Acreage, Lacey T. reports, "Perfect float trip back to our camp ground (free of charge to have them drop us off at a put in location)." Floating trips can range from 2-8 hours depending on water levels and route selection.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer space between campsites for a more private experience. At Kings River Falls Campground, rachael S. appreciates the layout: "We had campsite #5 and loved how much room we had! You are close enough to see your neighbor campers but we couldn't hear them at all."
Rustic facilities: The CCC-built stone structures at Bayou Bluff provide unique camping accommodations. Valerie notes, "The stone buildings are so nice to set up somewhat out of the weather and have functional fireplaces. The walk to the river is very easy."
Night sky viewing: Areas away from light pollution provide exceptional stargazing. "Saw more stars than I have seen, ever. No WiFi or service so we got to completely relax and enjoy nature!" shares Lacey T. about Riverfield Acreage.
Wildlife sightings: Many campers report animal encounters in their reviews. At Steel Creek Campground, one camper mentioned, "Saw a lot of deer in the forest right next to our site and in the field next over." These natural encounters enhance the camping experience without requiring additional planning.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to several campgrounds requires careful driving on steep terrain. At Kyles Landing, Luke B. warns, "the drive down the Arkansas hill to this serene location is a tense frustrating and should not be attempted with a real wheel drive or low profile vehicle."
Limited cell service: Most campsites have minimal or no connectivity. Dawn G. notes about Haw Creek Falls, "It was beautiful! Secluded, need bug spray, worth the ride out but no cell service at all!" Plan communications accordingly before arrival.
Seasonal flooding: Water levels impact accessibility and campsite conditions. Regarding Haw Creek Falls, Lacee G. cautions, "Beware of flooding during the rainy seasons. When it rains a lot, the creek floods and covers the road into the campground."
Bathroom facilities: Restroom quality varies significantly across sites. According to layla B. at Haw Creek Falls, "The bathroomS were absolutely disgusting and full of trash," while other reviewers at different campgrounds report well-maintained facilities. Check recent reviews before deciding.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly locations: Several campgrounds cater well to families new to camping. David S. says about Haw Creek Falls, "This would be a great area for families, though I was just passing through by myself. The location is very pretty."
Water access considerations: Look for campsites with safe water access for children. Steel Creek Campground features "a beach and lots of nature trails" according to Miranda D., who adds that it's "a great campsite if you're wanting to get outdoors, but aren't quite adventurous to go full-out."
Child safety precautions: Steep terrain and water hazards require supervision. As Steel Creek Campground camper Samantha W. notes, "Really beautiful views of the bluffs and easy access to the river for swimming. Only drawback was the fact that all the sites are in a large open field with picnic tables denoting specific sites."
Wildlife awareness: Prepare children for encounters with local wildlife. Layla B. reports, "Lots of snakes and saw a feral cat but so pretty," indicating the need for wildlife education before arrival.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Most campgrounds near Oark have limited space for larger vehicles. According to campground features, Steel Creek Campground does accommodate RVs but only in designated areas.
Backup plans: Weather conditions can make roads impassable for larger vehicles. Brian notes about Kyles Landing: "Road has improved and was more than passable even after heavy rains. Campsite is remote with great access to trials and the River. Not for Car Camping or RVing."
Off-grid preparation: Most tent camping sites lack hookups. Kelsey R. from Horseshoe Canyon Ranch advises, "We took our ram Pro master. Steep and rocky to get down but very doable." RV campers should prepare for primitive camping conditions with limited amenities at most locations.
