Dispersed camping opportunities dot the Ouachita National Forest landscape surrounding Sims, Arkansas, where elevations range between 700-2,200 feet. The region experiences humid summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and mild winters with occasional snow. Forest terrain consists primarily of oak-hickory and shortleaf pine woodlands interspersed with rocky outcroppings and small creeks.
What to do
Hunting opportunities: Ouachita National Forest offers seasonal hunting for deer and turkey. Campers at Fourche Mountain report significant wildlife activity. "This section of the National Forest offers two hours gravel road through the forest. Please do your homework because the road signs are lacking. Word of advice, best to stay away during hunting season as we spotted over ten deer hunters in the area in a single day; a hunting paradise as well," notes Jeff P.
Creek exploration: Several dispersed sites provide direct access to small waterways for wading and fishing. The Jack Creek area includes multiple sites with creek access. "The site has a short path down to Jack Creek. Depending on the water level, fishing and wading are possible at the creek," explains a reviewer at Jack Creek Dispersed.
Forest road exploration: The extensive network of forest roads provides opportunities for day trips. "On the path offers hidden creek waterfalls, lots of one way bridge and a serenity drive," mentions a Fourche Mountain visitor. Some roads require careful navigation and high-clearance vehicles, particularly after rainfall.
What campers like
Privacy and solitude: Many campers appreciate the isolated nature of dispersed sites. At Turner Creek Road, one camper mentioned it was a "Very secluded spot no amenities just a rock fire ring. Very peaceful." Similarly, Brodys campsite near Mena was described as a "Good secluded spot for Privacy."
Swimming access: During summer months, campers utilize creek and river access for cooling off. "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," shares Matthew J. about Irons Fork.
Natural settings: Campers frequently mention the undisturbed forest environment. "Large wooded dispersed campsite that has a short path down to Jack Creek... The site is shaded; solar recharging and Starlink connectivity is not likely," notes Fred S. Most sites maintain their natural character with minimal development.
What you should know
Bathroom facilities: Most dispersed sites have no facilities whatsoever. Where available, vault toilets are often poorly maintained. "There are bathrooms but they are RANK so just pee n poop in the woods," advises a camper at Irons Fork. Another camper notes, "I used my own pop up toilet as there's is not close to being clean."
Wildlife awareness: Bear activity requires proper food storage. "It is black bear country, so just be smart about your waste and food storage," cautions a camper at North Fork Creek Rd FR779. Wildlife may investigate improperly stored items.
Road conditions: Access roads vary significantly in quality and maintenance. "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," reports one camper. However, many roads become challenging after rainfall.
Cell service: Connectivity is extremely limited throughout the region. "There was no T-Mobile cell service at this site," reports a camper at North Fork Creek Rd. Most sites offer 1-2 bars at best, with many having no service whatsoever.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection considerations: Choose sites with level terrain and some open space for children. "This is a large wooded dispersed campsite... The site has a level dirt surface which can accommodate 4 rigs - truck camper size and smaller. Tent and hammock camping are possible," notes a visitor to Jack Creek Dispersed.
Swimming safety: Creek depths can change rapidly with rainfall. "We were the only folks staying overnight. Most people were using site to launch boats," notes a Fourche Mountain visitor. Smaller children should be closely supervised near water.
Adequate supplies: No services exist near most rustic camping sites near Sims, Arkansas. Pack additional water, as clean sources are scarce. "Camped here on May 5... The dirt and grass site is level. Poison ivy is present," warns a visitor, highlighting the need for awareness of natural hazards.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most forest roads and sites accommodate only smaller RVs. "The site can easily accommodate 2 vehicles, truck camper size and smaller, parked one behind the other," notes a camper at Jack Creek Rd Pull Thru. Large rigs risk getting stuck on narrow roads with limited turnaround space.
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at most sites. "Note, site is a little uneven, so chocks were helpful," advises a camper at Fourche Mountain. Carrying leveling blocks is essential for most dispersed camping in the area.
Access planning: Some sites require careful backing. "I have a CDL and back stuff all day. Don't try to pull in. Back in off the Buck Mountain," advises a Blue Knob Road camper. Many sites have limited maneuvering space once you arrive.
