Dispersed camping opportunities near Vendor, Arkansas center largely around the Buffalo National River watershed and Ozark National Forest lands. The area sits at elevations between 1,000-2,000 feet with typical summer highs in the upper 80s and winter lows frequently dipping below freezing. Most primitive sites lack facilities but offer direct water access, with National Forest locations permitting stays up to 14 days before requiring relocation.
What to do
Waterfall hunting: 3-mile round trip to Twin Falls from Richland Creek Recreation Area requires creek fording and moderate hiking skills. "There are many waterfalls in the surrounding area. Cross Richland Creek on the west side of the campground to find a trailhead to three different waterfalls," explains one visitor to Richland Creek Recreation Area.
Rock climbing: Access 400+ established routes at Horseshoe Canyon Ranch, a premier climbing destination with routes for all skill levels. "Infamously known in AR as one of the best climbing spots. It does get quite busy, so it's best to arrive earlier in the day to claim a good spot," advises one climber. The ranch sells climbing guidebooks with route maps and ratings.
Hiking the Buffalo River Trail: Access this long-distance trail directly from several campgrounds. "Right from the Steel Creek campground we took the Old River Trail (abbreviated as ORT on trail posts) up to the Centerpoint trailhead, which happens to have its own parking lot since it is a pretty popular hiking trail," notes one hiker who explored the area's network of interconnected paths.
What campers like
Stargazing: Minimal light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing. "Star gazing park, meaning park does not light up during night, if they do they are yellow lights not bright but there," notes one visitor to Ozark Campground, where dark skies and open areas provide excellent celestial viewing.
Wildlife encounters: Dawn and dusk viewing opportunities for deer, armadillos, and occasionally elk. "Great Campground with restrooms and running water. Campground sits next to the Buffalo River and Roark Bluff background. Lots of wildlife such as deer, elk and if you are lucky black bears," reports a camper at Steel Creek Campground.
Off-grid relaxation: No cell service at most sites. "Quiet, beautiful campground. Off the grid for two days, no phone service! Loved it," writes a camper at Richland Creek Recreation Area. This digital disconnection is common throughout the region, particularly in the river valleys and more remote forest sites.
What you should know
Road access challenges: Many unpaved forest roads require high-clearance vehicles, especially after rainfall. "The drive to Woolum Dispersed Area at the end of April (2022) and the final stretch of access road was blocked off due to erosion according to NPS. Not sure when main road will reopen," reports one visitor, highlighting the area's ever-changing road conditions.
Weekend crowding: Popular sites fill rapidly Friday through Sunday, particularly during summer and fall color season. "We were there for Memorial Day weekend and the campground was very busy, but quiet hours seemed to be honored," notes a visitor to Ozark Campground.
Seasonal water hazards: Spring rainfall can flood riverside sites. "Beautiful area! The river rose pretty fast when we camped here in May this year after a three day storm, but our camp site drained pretty well," reports an Ozark Campground visitor. Flash floods remain a risk through June at most riverside camping areas.
Tips for camping with families
Best family-friendly sites: Look for open field layouts with play space. "The campsites encircles a large field in the center which some people used to play ball, frisbee etc," notes one visitor to Ozark Campground. Similar layouts exist at Steel Creek where families often set up volleyball nets.
Swimming holes: Scout locations during low water periods. "We chose this campground very last minute... There's a cool trail that leads to the river. We enjoyed it over all," shares a visitor to Sam's Throne Recreation Area, where river access provides natural water play areas during summer months.
Bathroom facilities: Limited but available at established sites. "Vault toilets were super clean. Had a great experience there," notes a Sam's Throne visitor. Most established campgrounds maintain basic toilet facilities, though shower availability is rare outside of private campgrounds.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Limited level parking at many National Forest and Buffalo River locations. "I got my compact car down just fine. Go slow in a lower gear," advises one RVer about accessing Kyles Landing Campground, where the steep access road presents challenges for larger vehicles.
Hookup availability: Private campgrounds offer full services. "Campground is very shady, quiet. Plenty of room between sites," notes a visitor to Shady Oaks Campground, one of the few locations offering full hookups near Vendor. Most operate year-round but require advance reservations during peak periods.
Water access limitations: Bring containers to primitive sites. "There is some type of well near the entrance to the campsites but don't count on there being water. Supposedly it's ok to drink if there is," explains a Richland Creek visitor. Most dispersed camping areas require campers to bring their own water supplies.
