Top Free Dispersed Camping near Ouachita Lake
Planning a dispersed camping trip near Ouachita Lake? Find everything from dispersed backcountry camping to boondocking with The Dyrt. Find the perfect dispersed campsite for your next adventure.
Best Dispersed Sites Near Ouachita Lake, AR (32)
1. Irons Fork
1 Review•4 Photos•62 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
2. Forest Service RD 132 Ouachita National Forest
3 Reviews•17 Photos•46 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
3. Ouachita National Forest Fourche Mountain
3 Reviews•23 Photos•30 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Dispersed
4. Forest Service RD 153 Ouachita National Forest
2 Reviews•7 Photos•9 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
5. Dispersed FR132 Ouachita National Forest, AR
3 Reviews•12 Photos•62 SavesMany people enjoy the solitude and primitive experience of camping away from developed campgrounds and other campers. Dispersed camping is the term used for camping anywhere in the National Forest OUTSIDE of a designated campground. Dispersed camping means no services; such as trash removal, and little or no facilities; such as tables and fire pits, are provided. Some popular dispersed camping areas may have toilets. There are extra responsibilities and skills that are necessary for dispersed camping. It is your responsibility to know these before you try this new experience. Camping rules and regulations apply to make your experience safe, and to keep the natural resources scenic and unspoiled for other campers. Typically, dispersed camping is NOT allowed in the vicinity of developed recreation areas such as campgrounds, picnic areas, or trailheads. Many people drive out on Forest Service roads into the woods and find a clearing or a spot near a stream or with a view of the mountains. Do not drive on meadows to access your camping site. Drive on existing roads to prevent resource damage. To prevent resource damage please keep your campsite within 150 feet from a roadway. How to Pick a Campsite If you are going to an area where others have camped before, pick a site that has been used before. Plants, soil and wildlife are impacted by new campsites so using existing ones will minimize your impact in the forest. If there is no existing campsite, then follow Leave No Trace guidelines.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
6. CR133/FR146 Hogan Creek Dispersed, Ouachita NF, AR
1 Review•7 Photos•11 SavesMany people enjoy the solitude and primitive experience of camping away from developed campgrounds and other campers. Dispersed camping is the term used for camping anywhere in the National Forest OUTSIDE of a designated campground. Dispersed camping means no services; such as trash removal, and little or no facilities; such as tables and fire pits, are provided. Some popular dispersed camping areas may have toilets.
There are extra responsibilities and skills that are necessary for dispersed camping. It is your responsibility to know these before you try this new experience. Camping rules and regulations apply to make your experience safe, and to keep the natural resources scenic and unspoiled for other campers.
Typically, dispersed camping is NOT allowed in the vicinity of developed recreation areas such as campgrounds, picnic areas, or trailheads. Many people drive out on Forest Service roads into the woods and find a clearing or a spot near a stream or with a view of the mountains. Do not drive on meadows to access your camping site. Drive on existing roads to prevent resource damage. To prevent resource damage please keep your campsite within 150 feet from a roadway.
How to Pick a Campsite If you are going to an area where others have camped before, pick a site that has been used before. Plants, soil and wildlife are impacted by new campsites so using existing ones will minimize your impact in the forest. If there is no existing campsite, then follow Leave No Trace guidelines.
- Pets
- Fires
- RVs
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
7. Brown Creek Cascade Dispersed Campsite
2 Reviews•11 Photos•74 SavesIf you are one of those folks who prefers a different, more rugged camp experience, primitive camping is allowed almost anywhere in the Ouachita National Forest unless there is a sign stating otherwise, or it is a wildlife food plot. Located throughout the Forests are areas that have been campsites for many years. These are located along roadsides, trails, mountain tops, or near streams. Camping at dispersed locations have additional responsibilities: "Leave No Trace" so others can have a similar backcountry experience, pack out any trash or litter, scatter campfire ash around so it doesn't pile up, and leave the area better than you found it. Please filter water before drinking! Beware of stream crossings after heavy rains. Please read the Dispersed Camping guidelines before heading out. https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/ouachita/recreation/?cid=fseprd727994
- Fires
- Tents
- Dispersed
8. Forest Service RD 29145 Ouachita National Forest
1 Review•5 Photos•2 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- RVs
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
9. FR 83W/CR84 Dispersed near Pond, Ouachita NF, AR
1 Review•7 Photos•1 SaveMany people enjoy the solitude and primitive experience of camping away from developed campgrounds and other campers. Dispersed camping is the term used for camping anywhere in the National Forest OUTSIDE of a designated campground. Dispersed camping means no services; such as trash removal, and little or no facilities; such as tables and fire pits, are provided. Some popular dispersed camping areas may have toilets.
There are extra responsibilities and skills that are necessary for dispersed camping. It is your responsibility to know these before you try this new experience. Camping rules and regulations apply to make your experience safe, and to keep the natural resources scenic and unspoiled for other campers.
Typically, dispersed camping is NOT allowed in the vicinity of developed recreation areas such as campgrounds, picnic areas, or trailheads. Many people drive out on Forest Service roads into the woods and find a clearing or a spot near a stream or with a view of the mountains. Do not drive on meadows to access your camping site. Drive on existing roads to prevent resource damage. To prevent resource damage please keep your campsite within 150 feet from a roadway.
How to Pick a Campsite If you are going to an area where others have camped before, pick a site that has been used before. Plants, soil and wildlife are impacted by new campsites so using existing ones will minimize your impact in the forest. If there is no existing campsite, then follow Leave No Trace guidelines.
- Pets
- Fires
- RVs
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
10. Blue Knob Road in Ouachita National Forest
2 Reviews•15 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Dispersed
Showing results 1-10 of 32 campgrounds
Recent Dispersed Reviews In Ouachita Lake
37 Reviews of 32 Ouachita Lake Campgrounds
Alice S.
LegendFR132 - Crossroads Site Dispersed
Super Simple But Has Signal
WARNING Stay on the good gravel roads. GPS took me down 4 miles of an old log trail that I wasn't able to turn around on. Spent thirty minutes cursing GPS and contemplating my life choices. I was headed for one of the other sites but was so tired when I saw this one I took it.
The site is at a crossroads so quite convenient. Only room for one vehicle. It does have a stone ring for a fire pit. The main draw however is that there is pretty good signal with Verizon here which is really rare in the area.
- RRick M.
Traveler
Harris Brake Lake
A place to stop for the night
We arrived late at night, and I'm glad we had our lightbar. It's dispersed camping, so no dumpster, no gray water dump. It does have a picnick table, though.
- Arthur S.Traveler
Brown Creek Cascade Dispersed Campsite
Nice weekend
Didn’t have to drive too far down the road found a spot on the left. Nice stone camp fire circle, good flat spot for my tent, which is a four person. Bring a chair if you want a comfortable seat, also hard to find decent wood to burn, had to walk a bit to find. Not many cars drive down the road, saw some people hiking, also Sunday morning there were hunters out, so hearing gunshot pretty close to camp. All in all though it is good to be with nature and I’d go back to this spot or find another one on the road. I didn’t go very far down the road have more to explore!
Fred S.Legend
Jack Creek Dispersed, Ouachita National Forest, AR
Large wooded dispersed campsite near creek
Coordinates: 35.02281, -93.81060. Located 2.5 miles past the entrance of the Jack Creek Recreation Area, and almost 1 mile past the turn off to the shooting range. Jack Creek Road is a mixed dirt/gravel road, wider than a single track; it is well maintained with some minor erosion in a few places. The campsite is well off of Jack Creek Road, down an undesignated dirt track, offering a lot of privacy. Access is easy although the dirt track may be muddy during the wet season. This is a large wooded dispersed campsite that has a short path down to Jack Creek. Depending on the water level, fishing and wading are possible at the creek. The site has a level dirt surface which can accommodate 4 rigs - truck camper size and smaller. Tent and hammock camping are possible. The site has a clean rock fire ring. There is a lot of shade during the summer. Solar charging is possible in an open field at the entrance of the site. This is a wonerful site to camp in. Jack Creek Recreation Area and the Sugar Creek hiking trail are a short drive away. I received no t-Mobile cell service.
- Fred S.Legend
Jack Creek Rd Pull Thru Dispersed, Ouachita National Forest, AR
Small Pull Thru Site with Easy Access
Coordinates: 35.02422, -93.81997. Located 2 miles past the entrance of the Jack Creek Recreation Area, and 1/3rd mile past the turn off to the shooting range. It is a small pull though campsite with a small rock fire ring, close to Jack Creek Road (forest road); there is very little privacy from the forest road. Jack Creek Road is a mixed dirt/gravel road, wider than a single track; it is well maintained with some minor erosion in a few places. This campsite can receive dust from passing vehicles. The site can easily accommodate 2 vehicles, truck camper size and smaller, parked one behind the other. The site is shaded with a level dirt surface. Small tent & hammock camping is possible near rock fire ring which is located between the pull through driveway and the forest road. Easy access into the site. There is no T-Mobile cell service. There is nothing special about this campsite; no recreation, such as hiking trails, in the immediate vicinity. Jack Creek Recreation Area and the Sugar Creek hiking trail are a short drive away.
- Fred S.Legend
Jack Creek Road Dispersed, Ouachita National Forest, AR
Large wooded site just off Jack Creek Road
Not sure if the pin location is accurate, so here are the coordinates: 35.02802, -93.82913. Located 1.3 miles past the entrance of the Jack Creek Recreation Area. It is a large site with a large rock fire ring, set back a little from Jack Creek Road (forest road). Jack Creek Road is a mixed dirt/gravel road, wider than a single track; it is well maintained with some minor erosion in a few places. The campsite has a mostly level dirt surface that can accommodate 2 vehicles - truck camper size and smaller. Tent and hammock camping is possible. The site is mostly shaded in the summer. There is an old undesignated track near the rear of the site; this may lead down to Jack Creek, but I was not able to verify this due to large mud puddles on the track. There was a little bit of trash at the site, but not too bad. I received no T-Mobile cell service. There is nothing special about this campsite; just a nice place to camp in for a night or two. Jack Creek Recreation Area and the Sugar Creek hiking trail are a short drive away.
- Fred S.Legend
Girard Rd/Forest Road 20 Dispersed, Ouachita National Forest, AR
Somewhat private dispersed site off of unbusy forest road
Coordinates: 35.02531, -93.88228. Located just off of Girard Road (Forest Road 20) - a maintained gravel/dirt forest road. This road is mostly a single track - narrow with some minor erosion in a few places. A lifted 4x4 vehicle is NOT needed to drive to the site. The dispersed site is located 1.3 miles south of the turnoff to Jack Creek Recreation Area. This site is set off from the forest road on a narrow undesignated dirt track which is easy to miss. It is a small site with enough room for one vehicle - truck camper size and smaller. The site is mostly level on a dirt surface with a rock fire ring. It is mostly shaded, although solar recharging may be possible during the afternoon with solar panels being placed on the access track in front of the site. Tent and hammock camping are possible. Received a strong T-Mobile 5G signal here. Except for some peace and quiet, there is nothing remarkable about this particular campsite. However, is is located in the Jack Creek area of the Arkansas Ouachitas. This area has a few nice swimming holes and hiking trails which one can drive to. OHV recreation is also possible in the area.
- Fred S.Legend
FR132/152 T-Junction Dispersed, Ouachita NF, AR
Convenient Dispersed Camping 2 Miles from Lake Sylvia
Large dispersed campsite located 2 miles west of Lake Sylvia State Park, where Forest Road 152 meets Forest Road 132. Clean site with one rock fire ring. Can fit a couple of vehicles. Because of the position of the trees on the site, maneuvering a truck camper into the site may be a challenge; don't recommend anything larger. Tent camping is possible. This is a level dirt site with some embedded rocks jutting up. Nice wooded area around site to stroll through. Seasonal track FR132C is adjacent to the site; this track is hikeable. Since the site is at the intersection of popular forest roads, there will be vehicles driving by. The site is set back enough that dust may not be a concern. No T-Mobile cell service. This is convenient, pretty campsite.
- Fred S.Legend
FR132 Small Dispersed, Ouachita NF, AR
Overnight Dispersed Site
Coordinates: 34.85431, -92.88115. Small dispersed campsite in the woods just off of Forest Road 132. Close to the forest road; easy access. There is a clean rock fire ring. Good campsite for a quick overnight stay. The surface of the site is dirt with a little bit of pea gravel. This site is only big enough for one rig, truck camper and smaller size. Pitching a tent is possible in a small clearing to the left of the rock fire ring. Slight downward slope but not bad. Shaded in summer. Nice wooded area. No T-Mobile cell service. There are no hiking trails nearby or remarkable natural features here, but the forest at this site is pretty. This is a nice site in the autumn.
- Fred S.Legend
Crystal Mountain Dispersed
Good View with Difficult Access
I haven't camped here recently. Forest Road 132A, which climbs up to the Crystal Mountain Overlook fom Forest Road 132, is not maintained and badly eroded. Drivers with high clearance 4x4 vehicles and OHVs will enjoy driving up this track, but I don't recommend this drive for the average passenger vehicle. I no longer attempt this with my stock AWD Subaru Outback - just not enough clearance. There are two rock fire rings at the top. Despite the nice views at the top, the dispersed campsites are usually trashy. I included an older photo of the view with Lake Winona in the distance.
- Fred S.Legend
FR132 Grindstone Mountain Area Dispersed, Ouachita NF. AR
Forested Group Dispersed Site near Crystal Mountain Overlook
Coordinates: 34.83903, -92.94556. Set back from Forest Road 132 off of an old track - a short distance west of Forest Road 75. There is some minor erosion on the access to this site from FR132. Large site; good for groups. Should accommodate 4 rigs - truck campersize & smaller. This site can accommodate 4x4 drivers that are planning to tackle Forest Road 132A to the Crystal Mountain Overlook - a short distance east of this site. FR132A is hikeable for those who do not drive high clearance 4x4s. The dispersed site has a level dirt surface. There are two rock fire rings. Beautiful forest backdrop. No T-Mobile service.
- Fred S.Legend
Forest Service RD 132 Ouachita National Forest
Fantastic View
Near Oak Mtn Vista overlook. Great spot; fantastic unobstructed view of the hills to the south. Some shade in the summer. Fantastic view during the winter season. Large site; can comfortably accommodate 2, maybe 3 rigs - truck camper & smaller. Not level; some leveling is required. Dirt surface with exposed embedded rock - may be uncomfortable for tent camping. Close to road, which can get busy at times. Nice rock fire ring. Clean site. T-Mobile cell service.
- Fred S.Legend
Forest Service RD 29145 Ouachita National Forest
Good Overnight Dispersed Campsite
Small drive up site in a nice, wooded area. Very close to Forest Road 124, which is not busy. A few sections of this forest road coming from Trail 86 has minor erosion, but a 2WD passenger vehicle can carefully make it. The campsite slopes down slightly; some leveling may be required. Rock fire ring. Although close to the forest road, this is a pretty site. Good for an overnight stay while exlporing the forest. No T-Mobile cell service.
- Fred S.Legend
Forest Service RD 153 Ouachita National Forest
Small Site with Great View
Located on Forest Road 153. Small site with a nice view. The view is better during winter season camping. Close to the forest road with very little traffic; may get dusty at times. Two rock fire rings. This site has a rocky surface with sparse grass. High summer undergrowth around site. The site was not quite level, but workable. Fits one rig, truck camper and smaller. Finding a soft place for a tent may be difficult. Forest road 153 btween this site and Highway 7 appears to have been badly damaged by heavy rain and erosion. Looks like attempts were made to repair it, but still sketchy in places. There are some minor obstacles and washouts. I don't recommend this road for a 2WD passenger car; 4x4's with some high clearence should have no problem. I received good T-Mobile service at this site. Love this dispersed campsite.
- Fred S.Legend
Ouachitas FR179 Dispersed Site
Creekside dispersed camping in the Ouachita National Forest
Camped here on Dec 13, 2023. Along well maintained gravel forest road, FR 179 in the Ouachita National Forest, Saline County, Arkansas. Really nice large site with a creek that flows into the North Fork of the Saline River was behind the site. Site appears to be large enough for 2 rigs no large than a truck camper. Multiple tents can be set up here. Did not have a problem parking our camper van on a level spot. The dirt surface is level. The site has a rock fire ring. Only a few vehicles drove by the site on FR179. Lots of trees surrounding the site with an open sky above for star gazing. Fishing is possible in the North Fork of the Saline River a short walk south of the site. No hiking trails nearby. No T-Mobile or AT&T cell service. Love this spot!
Jacob F.
GuideForest Service RD 132 Ouachita National Forest
More amazing views
Large site if you are sleeping on the ground bring plenty of padding it is rocky and no very flat. If you are in a rooftop there are plenty of rocks to level up on. Great views
- Jacob F.Guide
Forest Service RD 153 Ouachita National Forest
Great view
Off grid camp site need 4×4 some washouts on forest service rd 153
- Carlos P.
ScoutBlue Knob Road in Ouachita National Forest
Its tight...but its 1500 feet
I have a CDL and back stuff all day. Don't try to pull in. Back in off the Buck Mountain
Jared E.TravelerForest Service RD 132 Ouachita National Forest
Comfortable and well-maintained
There was a fire pit, prepared firewood, and a nice stump to chop more on. Very isolated, didn’t see any cars past 7 pm. Ample room for large van and many tents. Beautiful view from atop the mountain!
- EErnest W.Scout
Mena Arkansas
Brodys camp site
Good secluded spot for Privacy
- HHeather C.Traveler
Blue Knob Road in Ouachita National Forest
Solitude
I have a 30ft Class C which is probably the largest vehicle you would want to drive down the dirt road to this site. There is a clearing near the Ouachita Trail with a fire pit and plenty of space to park. You're in the middle of nowhere and it's gorgeous!
Sophia W.Scout
Dispersed FR132 Ouachita National Forest, AR
Worthwhile if you take some time to look!
Stayed at two different spots here. First was a couple miles from the main road (highway 7). Plenty of room but close to the road and some trash, decent for pulling in after dark though. Second spot (pictured) was amazing— maybe 5-10 miles back of I had to guess. There are a few forest service roads back here so pay attention to the signs. Roads are steep further back but we’ll covered with gravel and very few large rocks, so you should be okay with most cars in good weather. Not sure how many sites are back here total. Expect to drive a ways between spots.
Mitch H.TravelerHarris Brake Lake
Beautiful Simple Campground (Permit Required)
Solid site minus the heat and bugs this time of year. I was greeted with a sign at the entrance saying that a hunting/ fishing license or land pass was required to camp. There was no one else there and I wasn't bothered, but keep in mind you might get a wake up call from a ranger. Neither the dyrt or the WMA website said anything about this so that would've been my alibi. Great location with a beautiful sunset on the lake.
- ssavGuide
Harris Brake Lake
Absolutely beautiful!
It was gorgeous and obviously well taken care of. we were by ourselves the whole night! Designated fire pits and an awesome view of the lake. However, there were two reasons for the four stars. 1) a little deeper into the woods, there were telltale signs for this camping site being a storage spot for people without houses. we had no issues but as two girls camping in a new state, it def made us a bit nervous. 2) there were two relatively major roads running right next to the site, so we got all of the sounds and the lights that come with that. we also got several curious individuals that drove down through to see what it was. but it was free!!! so definitely no major complaints here.
- MMatthew J.Traveler
Irons Fork
Nicest free spot I’ve seen!
The place was beautiful and had plenty of lake access points too. I went in mid July so it was hot and humid but I was able to swim a bit to help that. Some nice mature trees were there but didn’t get in the way of our view of the lake. There was even a pit toilet! There seemed to be about 5 sites, each with a grill and fire ring. More spaces are available near the road as well. Bugs weren’t much of an issue but we did use bug spray. There was a lil bit of trash from previous campers, some of which made it into the campfire. I’m happy we visited, but not happy about the humidity- I am thankful we were able to sleep in the car though! There was only one other person there. It is black bear country, so just be smart about your waste and food storage. We had about 1-2 bars of AT&T coverage, but the road leading in has some better signal.
Kyle C.ScoutHarris Brake Lake
Hidden gem
I really enjoyed this site. I stopped on a weekday and I was the only one there. It was nice watching the sun set over the lake.
- TTina M.Traveler
Harris Brake Lake
BARKING DOGS
Overall a great site. Big trailers, no problem ..... No amenities. Great view. Great fishing lake.
Attempted to have a fire one night and the neighborhood dogs literally never stopped barking... Never.
Guide to Ouachita Lake
Camping near Ouachita Lake, Arkansas, offers a fantastic escape into nature with beautiful views and plenty of activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, this area has something for everyone.
What to do:
- Fishing: Enjoy fishing right off your campsite! At Lake Catherine State Park Campground, one camper mentioned, "Our site on the lake was very beautiful and every site on the water has a small dock you can fish off." It's a great way to relax and catch dinner.
- Hiking: Explore the scenic trails around the campgrounds. One visitor at Gulpha Gorge Campground noted, "If you enjoy hiking, this is an excellent location." The trails offer stunning views and a chance to connect with nature.
- Swimming: Cool off in the lake! Campers at Lake Ouachita State Park Campground enjoyed the swimming areas, with one reviewer saying, "The lake is beautiful and all tent sites have access to the water."
What campers like:
- Clean Facilities: Many campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A visitor at Gulpha Gorge Campground remarked, "Cleanest shower house I've ever seen." Clean facilities make for a more enjoyable stay.
- Spacious Sites: Campers love the roomy sites at Denby Point. One happy camper shared, "Very clean, well maintained, and HUGE sites." This space allows for a more comfortable camping experience.
- Friendly Staff: The welcoming atmosphere is a highlight for many. At Catherine's Landing, a reviewer said, "The staff was amazing, and we had a great time." Friendly staff can make a big difference in your camping experience.
What you should know:
- Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like COE Lake Ouachita Crystal Springs Campground, may not have full amenities. A camper noted, "Only negative was our bathroom was still closed for the season." Be prepared for some basic facilities.
- Wildlife: Expect to see wildlife! Campers at DeGray Lake Resort State Park mentioned, "We saw lots of deer and other wildlife." Keep your camera ready for some great nature shots.
- Road Noise: Some campgrounds are near busy roads. A visitor at Gulpha Gorge Campground mentioned, "A little close to a busy road, but if you have a creek spot you can hear the water flowing!" Choose your site wisely for a quieter experience.
Tips for camping with families:
- Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids. At Catherine's Landing, one family enjoyed, "Plenty of room for the kids to play behind our water site." Space to roam is essential for family fun.
- Safety First: Always supervise kids near water. A camper at Lake Ouachita State Park Campground advised, "The lake is beautiful and all tent sites have access to the water." Make sure everyone knows the rules around water safety.
- Plan for Meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals. A visitor at Daisy State Park Campground mentioned, "The camp store sold firewood, ice, and souvenirs." Having supplies on hand can make meal prep easier.
Tips from RVers:
- Check Site Accessibility: Some sites can be tricky to access. A camper at Denby Point noted, "Only problem is some sites are hard to get to." Make sure to check site details before booking.
- Full Hookups: Look for campgrounds with full hookups for a more comfortable stay. At Treasure Isle R.V. Park, a reviewer said, "The sites are pull through but not paved." Knowing what to expect can help you prepare.
- Stay Connected: If WiFi is important, check reviews. A visitor at Catherine's Landing mentioned, "Serious Problem is Very Poor WiFi." Plan accordingly if you need to stay connected.
Camping near Ouachita Lake, Arkansas, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. With beautiful scenery and plenty of activities, it’s a perfect spot for your next adventure!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Ouachita Lake?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Ouachita Lake is Irons Fork with a 4-star rating from 1 review.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Ouachita Lake?
TheDyrt.com has all 32 dispersed camping locations near Ouachita Lake, with real photos and reviews from campers.