Camping opportunities in Ozark National Forest near Pettigrew, Arkansas center around the Mulberry River watershed, with elevations ranging from 1,000 to 2,500 feet. Most campgrounds maintain pit toilets or vault toilets that require regular servicing during peak season. Winter camping remains available at several locations, though water systems are typically winterized from November through March.
What to do
Kayaking and swimming access: Redding Campground offers direct Mulberry River access with a dedicated put-in spot. "Camp spots are nicely spaced out. Water available. No electric. Had cell service for the most part. Bathrooms well kept. Pretty secluded area. Mulberry is one of my favorite rivers I have kayaked and this campsite offers a great take out spot," notes Suzsan M.
Off-road adventures: The network of forest service roads provides extensive off-road opportunities. "Near the Mulberry River and White Rock recreation area, the facility is an off road enthusiasts playground! Trails directly into the outback from the facility. Plants of space to stretch out and enjoy the deep Forrest areas of Arkansas," according to John F. about Mulberry Mountain Lodging & Events.
Hiking to panoramic views: Forest trails range from short nature walks to challenging ridge hikes. "Camped in site #6 on Nov 20, 2024. The Mulberry River had some serious flooding a few weeks ago which caused this campground to close. The campground is now open, and work is being done to restore the campground and its campsites back to its previous clean state," reports Fred S. from Redding Campground.
What campers like
Riverside camping spots: Camping directly alongside the Mulberry River ranks consistently high with visitors. "This place is beautiful! Nicely spaced spots, very nice swimming hole. Only downside was the upkeep could be better. I will camp here again," says Scott G. about Redding Campground.
Dark night skies: The remote location provides excellent stargazing. "January 31-Feb 3 2025. White Rock is a great little campground. With only 8 tent camp sites it is very quaint. The cabins were packed and there were many people visiting the overlook but my partner and I were the only tent campers," shares Erin-Frannie R. from White Rock Mountain Recreation Area.
Affordable dispersed options: Free camping on forest service land provides budget options. "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, Forest Road 1504, a little over a mile north of AR Hwy 215. The trailhead to Spy Rock is about a mile north of this site," notes Fred S. about Morgan Mtn Rd/Spy Rock Dispersed.
What you should know
Road conditions: Forest service roads require caution, especially after rain. "It's a slow, beautiful drive. The reviews are correct that the last hour of the drive is only 20 miles. Make sure to stop for gas! It is an unpaved road that in some spots is maybe wide enough for 2 small vehicles to pass each other," warns Erin-Frannie R.
Bug protection essential: Summer brings significant insect activity. "This place is an amazing bargain. For just $15 a night, you get nice, big, secluded campsites, a large bathroom with running water, flushing toilets, and showers, and an awesome swimming hole. There is a downside here, though, and it's a big one: horseflies. They attacked me as soon as I got in the water, and they were relentless," reports Alex M. from Redding Campground.
Seasonal facility closures: Most campground amenities close during winter. "My best friend and I stayed October 22-25. I was looking for a quiet, small campground with minimal amenities and cool features that was driving distance to good hikes. This was perfect. Only six spots. Fire rings and low to the ground grills. Vault toilets near the entrance," shares Loura P. about Wolf Pen Recreation Area.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly swimming: The Mulberry River offers shallow areas for children. "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. There is no water avalible so bring your own. Very quite and campsites are relativly private," notes Susan H. about Wolf Pen Recreation Area.
Bathroom accessibility: Choose campgrounds with maintained facilities for children. "Stayed here for a four wheeling trip. Was a decent location - sites were mostly dirt/gravel," says Jenny about Byrd's Adventure Center.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer wildlife observation from camp. "A downed tree blocks part of the view, but still has a beautiful panoramic view of the surrounding mountains. The disbursed sight is large, but only part of it is level enough to camp on in my opinion. Spy Rock overlook is down the road and the view is spectacular," mentions AMY A. from Morgan Mtn Rd/Spy Rock Dispersed.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many campsites require leveling equipment. "I decided not to camp here during my visit due to a brisk, cold north-northwest wind blowing through the campsite," says Fred S. about Morgan Mtn Rd/Spy Rock.
Limited large rig access: Most campgrounds accommodate smaller RVs only. "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. The store is well stocked an has ice cream and fresh foods," shares John F. about Byrd's Adventure Center.
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are limited but available. "Byrd's was awesome. They not only have their own trails on private land, but off-roaders can hit trails in National Forest territory not too far down the road. Good place for vehicles that need to hook up or primitive. They also have an area at the back of primitive where bush pilots can fly in," explains Eric L.
