Tent camping opportunities around Story, Arkansas center primarily in the Ouachita National Forest with elevations ranging between 600-2,300 feet. The region experiences mild winters and hot, humid summers with average July temperatures reaching 90°F. Many campsites in this area offer direct creek or lake access, with flash flooding possible during heavy rainfall periods from March through June.
What to do
Fishing at Irons Fork: Located near Jessieville, this primitive camping area provides excellent fishing access. "Great boat access" notes one camper, while another adds it's "Great for kayaking. Lots of people fishing. Fairly level."
Creek exploration at Big Brushy: This small campground features several walking trails leading down to Big Brushy Creek. "The Big Brushy Creek is right beside the campground and has several walking trails down to the creek," reports one visitor.
Off-roading at Hickory Nut Mountain: For those with appropriate vehicles, this area offers excellent off-road opportunities. "If the gate is open then explore an hour worth moderate off roading. This place also offers great hiking trails and primitive camping," shares Jeff P.
Crystal mining: The Story area sits near Mt. Ida, known as the Quartz Crystal Capital. Crystal Campground provides a convenient base for crystal hunting expeditions. "Nice free campground" with "a clear spring you can get water from," according to a recent visitor.
What campers like
Affordability: Many campsites in the Ouachita National Forest near Story are free or low-cost. At Hickory Nut Mountain, visitors appreciate that "there is a fire ring, picnic table, grill and it's free."
Privacy and solitude: At Fourche Mountain Campground, campers value the seclusion despite proximity to the highway. "It's right off the road but up a hill so you can't be seen. You can hear the road but there isn't much traffic so it isn't too loud," reports one camper.
Natural features: Many campsites near Story offer unique natural elements. At Hickory Nut Mountain, one camper describes, "at night you're surrounded by 'lightning bugs'. Which makes the experience a little enchanting."
Creek camping opportunities: Experienced campers find hidden spots away from established sites. One Hickory Nut Mountain visitor shares, "We headed back down Pollard Creek Trail- what a surprise gem we found! Creek bed camping! Cool spring to cool off on this warm fall day."
What you should know
Flash flood warnings: Multiple campsites issue warnings about rapid flooding. At Shirley Creek, one visitor noted, "flood warning signs were posted throughout the 'camp' and with recent rains, the water level was very near to the top of the bank with visibly covered trees several feet out."
Day-use designation changes: Some former campgrounds have changed status. At Shirley Creek, "Signs were posted that this is currently a day use area, however you could also see on these signs that some of the things mentioned campground, a bit confusing."
Limited cell service: Coverage varies significantly by location. At Crystal Campground, visitors report adequate service, while at Shirley Creek "Cell service is pretty limited here so I did not feel comfortable staying."
Road access challenges: Many campgrounds require travel on gravel roads. At Fourche Mountain Campground, the access is "right off the road" while Hickory Nut Mountain requires navigating "a 3 mile gravel road" that can be challenging for some vehicles.
Tips for camping with families
Safety considerations: When selecting the best tent camping near Story, Arkansas for families, monitor weather forecasts carefully. At Big Brushy, "This creek floods quickly and there are signs located through the park indicating it is a flash flood area, so be aware."
Site selection for comfort: Choose locations with amenities suited for children. Crystal NF Campground offers "8-12 sites here. There's a few small, medium and a couple larger sites... Most sites also have tent pads."
Wildlife education opportunities: The Ouachita National Forest provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly for spotting fireflies during summer months. At Hickory Nut Mountain, children can experience an environment "surrounded by lightning bugs, which makes the experience a little enchanting."
Restroom availability: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds. At Crystal NF Campground, expect "a vault toilet no pumped water but there is a clear spring you can get water from," while Irons Fork offers "Some sketchy pit toilets."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most primitive campgrounds near Story have limited space for larger vehicles. At COE Lake Ouachita Buckville Campground, RVs are accommodated but with limited amenities.
Leveling challenges: Many campsites feature uneven terrain requiring leveling equipment. At Fourche Mountain, "Sites nearly level" but at Hickory Nut Mountain one camper noted their site was "mostly rocky and downhill, so not great for tent camping."
Hookup limitations: RVers should prepare for dry camping near Story. At Irons Fork Primitive Camping, the site is "Ideal for tents, vans and tear drop campers" but lacks hookups, making it unsuitable for RVs requiring electrical or water connections.
