Best Dispersed Camping near Roland, AR

Dispersed camping in the Ouachita National Forest surrounds the Roland, Arkansas area, with multiple free primitive sites situated along forest roads and near waterways. Several dispersed camping areas are located along Forest Road 132 (Winona Scenic Drive), Forest Road 179, and Brown Creek Road (Forest Road 805), offering access to natural features like the North Fork of the Saline River, Brown Creek, and various mountain vistas. These sites typically feature simple rock fire rings with no designated facilities, situated on public land managed by the U.S. Forest Service.

Forest roads throughout the region range from well-maintained gravel surfaces to rough, eroded tracks requiring careful navigation. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for accessing many sites, particularly after rain when erosion can create challenging conditions. Most dispersed areas lack basic amenities such as drinking water, toilets, or trash service, requiring campers to pack out all waste. Cell service is spotty or nonexistent in many locations, with T-Mobile coverage particularly limited. Fire restrictions may apply seasonally, and campers must follow leave-no-trace principles.

The dispersed sites near Roland provide access to the Ouachita National Recreation Trail and various natural features like Brown Creek Cascade. Sites along Forest Road 179 feature creekside camping with opportunities for cooling off during summer months. The region offers a mix of wooded sites with good shade and open areas suitable for stargazing. According to one visitor, "Beautiful site in the woods. Quiet. Next to the Ouachita National Recreation Trail which is a wonderful hiking trail." Another camper noted that Forest Road 132 "is bumpy/rocky in several places. Erosion seems to be getting worse over time on this unpaved road," highlighting the importance of vehicle preparation when accessing backcountry areas.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Roland, Arkansas (36)

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Roland, AR

49 Reviews of 36 Roland Campgrounds



Guide to Roland

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Roland, Arkansas, where nature meets tranquility. With a variety of sites to choose from, you can enjoy the great outdoors without the crowds.

Scenic Views for Dispersed Campers

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Roland

  • Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to the North Fork of the Saline River near Ouachitas FR179 Dispersed Site, where you can cast a line and enjoy a quiet day by the water.
  • Hiking opportunities abound at FR132 Grindstone Mountain Area Dispersed, with trails leading to stunning overlooks and scenic views.
  • Birdwatching is a must at Crystal Mountain Dispersed, where the diverse wildlife and natural surroundings create an ideal environment for spotting various species.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Roland, Arkansas

  • Be prepared for a lack of amenities at sites like FR132/152 T-Junction Dispersed, as these areas do not offer water, toilets, or trash disposal.
  • Bring your own firewood and be ready to hike a bit to find suitable wood for your campfire, especially at Brown Creek Cascade Dispersed Campsite.
  • Always practice Leave No Trace principles to keep these beautiful sites pristine for future visitors, particularly at the well-loved Harris Brake Lake.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Roland, AR?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Roland, AR is Harris Brake Lake with a 4.1-star rating from 14 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Roland, AR?

TheDyrt.com has all 36 dispersed camping locations near Roland, AR, with real photos and reviews from campers.