The Ozark National Forest camping sites near Ozone, Arkansas range in elevation from 1,200 to 2,300 feet, creating varied microclimates throughout the region. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-90°F during the day with nighttime lows in the 60s. Most primitive sites around Ozone lack basic amenities, requiring campers to pack in their own drinking water and toilet supplies.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: 5-10 minute hikes from Haw Creek Falls Camping lead to several lesser-known cascades. "Pam's Grotto was my favorite," notes one camper at Haw Creek Falls Camping. The area contains multiple small waterfalls that remain active year-round, even during drier months.
Creek swimming: 20-30 yards from campsites at most recreation areas. Long Pool Recreation Area features "a lovely put-in spot for canoes/kayaks that's right on the loop with the rest of the sites," according to one visitor. The shallow creek areas provide natural swimming holes with rock formations suitable for children.
Hiking nearby trails: 1-5 miles in length from most campgrounds. "There is a decent amount of space between the sites. Most have fire rings and a great view of Haw Creek Falls. There are toilets but no bathhouse. Enjoy the nearby trails while you are here!" shares a Haw Creek visitor.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: 30-50 feet of spacing at most campgrounds. At Wolf Pen Recreation Area Campground, "the campsite is located on the Mulberry River. It has six campsites, most with elevated grills and fire rings. The campground does have 2 Vault restrooms and a place to dispose of trash. Very quite and campsites are relativly private."
Affordable camping: $3-15 per night at most recreation areas. "Former CCC site that has 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. Pit toilets. Quiet and dark with moderate cell phone coverage," reports a visitor to Ozone Recreation Area Camping.
Scenic riverside sites: Direct water access from multiple campgrounds. "Wile this is a campsite in the realest sense of the word, it is a great intro to dispersed camping. There are camp spots but limited facilities. Very nice," notes a camper at Redding Campground.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Spotty reception in most camping areas. A visitor to Haw Creek notes: "We only saw one other couple there the whole time we were there, it was clean, taken care of, had restrooms, tables, and firepits at several sites. It was beautiful! Secluded, need bug spray, worth the ride out but no cell service at all!"
Weather fluctuations: 20-30 degree changes possible between day and night temperatures. Flash flooding occurs in spring and early summer, especially at lower elevation sites. "Beware of flooding during the rainy seasons. When it rains a lot, the creek floods and covers the road into the campground," warns one Haw Creek visitor.
Wildlife encounters: Snakes and ticks common in warmer months. "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," reports a camper from Redding Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible swimming areas: Shallow water entry points ideal for children. At Long Pool Recreation Area, "the big draw is the charming swimming area with its imposing trio of rocks that swimmers love to jump off of." The natural swimming holes feature gradual entries and small beaches.
Educational opportunities: Wildlife viewing at dawn and dusk. "Saw a lot of deer in the forest right next to our site and in the field next over," notes a visitor to Steel Creek Campground. Armadillos, deer, and over 30 species of birds can be spotted in camping areas.
Site selection for shade: 70-80% tree cover at forested sites. "Sites with no electric have the best views and trails directly to the river," reports a visitor to Long Pool. Most campsites offer partial shade, but summer temperatures make shade critical for family comfort.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: 25-30 foot maximum at most forest campgrounds. 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." Most national forest campgrounds have limited space for larger rigs.
Hook-up availability: Electric and water at select sites. "Facility is what you would expect for an outdoor adventure facility. The sites are very spacious on the RV area, the smaller camper and primitive sites are very generous as well," notes another Byrd's visitor. Most RV-friendly sites require 30-50 foot clearance for proper parking.
Road access considerations: Unpaved forest roads to most recreation areas. "Roads are narrow as are spots," cautions an RVer. Many access roads feature steep grades with limited pull-offs, requiring careful navigation especially after rain.
