Primitive camping near Ouachita Lake offers numerous options across forest service roads throughout the Ouachita National Forest. Seasonal weather variations significantly impact accessibility, with summer temperatures often exceeding 90°F while winter nights can drop below freezing. The forest's uneven terrain presents challenges for leveling equipment, particularly at sites above 1,200 feet elevation.
What to do
Water access points: The Irons Fork area provides lake access for swimming and fishing. "We were the only campers had a great spot on the water for a morning shower," notes camper Charity S., who visited during a quiet period.
Trail hiking: For those seeking established trails, camping near Dispersed FR132 provides access to the Ouachita National Recreation Trail. According to Sophia W., "Second spot was amazing—maybe 5-10 miles back. Roads are steep further back but well covered with gravel and very few large rocks, so you should be okay with most cars in good weather."
Forest exploration: The dense woodland around CR133/FR146 Hogan Creek Dispersed offers opportunities for creek access and woodland walks. "There is a path along the creek behind the campsite; it eventually provides access down hill to the creek. This is a secluded spot which can not be easily seen from CR133/FR146," explains Fred S.
What campers like
Ridgetop views: The elevation of sites along Forest Service RD 132 provides panoramic vistas. "Large site if you are sleeping on the ground bring plenty of padding it is rocky and not very flat. If you are in a rooftop there are plenty of rocks to level up on. Great views," reports Jacob F.
Minimal crowds: Many dispersed sites offer true solitude. Jared E. found Forest Service RD 132 "Very isolated, didn't see any cars past 7 pm. Ample room for large van and many tents. Beautiful view from atop the mountain!"
Creek sounds: The running water at sites near streams creates a peaceful atmosphere. Fred S. describes the North Fork Creek Rd (FR779) Dispersed site as a "Large wooded dispersed site in the Ouachita National Forest. The site is near the North Fork Ouachita River, which can be reached by bushwacking down a steep hill and over rocks."
What you should know
Road conditions vary seasonally: Many access roads become impassable after heavy rain. David H. warns about Forest Service RD 132: "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. I ended up stopping one mile in."
Wildlife encounters: Bear activity requires proper food storage. At Irons Fork, camper Matthew J. notes: "It is black bear country, so just be smart about your waste and food storage."
Security concerns: Some sites have reported theft. One camper at Irons Fork reported: "heard a big loud pickup truck w a trailer pull up at 5am...come to find they STOLE OUR PADLOCKED COOLER. Very not cool."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies by location. At Forest Service RD 153, Fred S. reports: "I received good T-Mobile service at this site," while many other sites have no service.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for kids: Choose locations with gentle terrain. Fred S. describes Bear Creek Horse Camp as having "Four sites (2 official national forest sites with metal fire rings plus 2 dispersed sites with rock fire rings)," with space for family activities.
Water access safety: Sites near Irons Fork offer swimming but require supervision. A camper notes, "The place was beautiful and had plenty of lake access points. I went in mid July so it was hot and humid but I was able to swim a bit to help that."
Weather preparation: Ridge sites experience significant wind. Logan R. observed at Forest Service RD 153: "There is a good breeze as it is on the top of the ridge which would be great in summer but can get a bit nippy in the colder seasons."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Bring substantial leveling blocks for uneven terrain. At Forest Service RD 132, Fred S. notes: "Not level; some leveling is required."
Site size limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller rigs only. The Gladstone Forest Rd (FR11) Large Dispersed area is described as "Large, open dispersed site along Gladstone Forest Rd (FR11) in the Ouachita National Forest. Should accommodate 4 rigs - truck camper size and smaller."
Turn-around space: Check for adequate maneuvering room. Fred S. notes about North Fork Creek Rd: "A truck camper will be able to enter the site, but the trees may prevent maneuvering deeper into the site."
