Ozark National Forest camping near Witts Springs, Arkansas offers significant elevation changes between 700-2,300 feet above sea level, creating diverse microclimates and camping conditions. Many campsites feature direct creek or river access, with water levels fluctuating seasonally based on rainfall patterns. Water crossings can be completely dry in summer months but require 4WD vehicles after heavy precipitation.
What to do
Waterfall hunting: Drive or hike to falls within 30 miles of Witts Springs. At Haw Creek Falls Camping, campers can explore multiple waterfalls in the surrounding area. As one visitor notes, "We spent two nights and did make the hike to Twin Falls. Had to carry the 3 year old some just to keep a decent pace, but it was worth it. You'll have to ford the creek at least once and the trail isn't easy, but it's well marked enough that you can't miss it."
Swimming in natural pools: Access swimming areas directly from campsites. The Long Pool Recreation Area features "a charming swimming area with its imposing trio of rocks that swimmers love to jump off of." Many campers mention the temperature varies significantly by season, with one noting "Swimming was a little chilly. We had a wonderful float trip down the piney in the kayak's I got dunked so that's how I know the water was chilly."
Rock climbing: Challenge yourself on established routes. Sam's Throne Recreation Area provides access to rock climbing opportunities on the bluffs. A visitor described, "The bluffs are fantastic! Road is kinda sketchy on the way up." Another mentions it's "a useful base camp if you're rock climbing. Lots of bluffs set up for that."
What campers like
Primitive experience with basic amenities: Forest service campgrounds balance remoteness with necessities. At Woolum Dispersed Area, campers appreciate the minimal setup: "This is a very primitive campground, but it's one of our favorites! We can almost always find a spot to camp and it's super easy to pull our trailer into every spot there. It's a horse camp and there are many spots with shade and some with none."
Unique historic structures: Some sites feature CCC-built facilities. The Bayou Bluff Point of Interest offers "stone pavilions with fireplaces for cold weather camping" according to one camper. Another explains, "The stone buildings are so nice to set up somewhat out of the weather and have functional fireplaces. The walk to the river is very easy."
Dark skies for stargazing: Minimal light pollution creates optimal viewing conditions. Many campsites throughout the area provide excellent night sky visibility. One camper at Sam's Throne noted, "On the right dark night you can see every star in the sky." The remote nature of these sites means minimal artificial lighting interferes with astronomical viewing.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many access roads require preparation and appropriate vehicles. The final miles to most campsites involve gravel roads that can deteriorate in wet conditions. One visitor to Tyler Bend Campground reported, "I just tried to make a trip up there 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."
No supplies nearby: Stock up before arrival. Most campsites are 20-45 minutes from the nearest stores. A Long Pool Recreation Area camper advised, "Bring plenty of groceries and other needs since all stores are 45'/60' away!"
Wildlife encounters: Prepare for various animals. Campers regularly report seeing deer, armadillos, snakes, and occasionally bears. One camper mentioned, "There are a few bears in the region so I would hang my food just to be safe." Another reported, "Bambi and her mom also seem to live here."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming holes for kids: Look for gentle areas with monitoring space. One parent camping at Haw Creek Falls noted, "Fun campground, not exactly remote but private enough. Swimming area is fantastic, a much needed relief after a hot day of hiking!" However, they warn, "Something really important to note though is that there is NO WATER!! Bring your own water in to avoid making a half an hour trip to the nearest gas station!"
Field games: Choose campgrounds with open play areas. Several campgrounds feature central clearings ideal for family activities. A camper at Ozark Campground described, "The campsite encircles a large field in the center which some people used to play ball, frisbee etc."
Kid-friendly trails: Select shorter hikes with interesting features. Many campgrounds connect to trails with natural attractions like small waterfalls or wildlife viewing opportunities. One camper mentioned, "Great little waterfall in hollow about 1/2 mi up river on creekside trail," making for an achievable adventure with children.
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: Many sites cannot accommodate larger rigs. Most primitive campgrounds have tight turns and limited space. A camper at Woolum Dispersed Area advised, "Not great for big rigs, a lot of the sites are too small."
Limited hookups: Plan for dry camping at most locations. While some developed campgrounds offer electric, most are primitive. One RVer at Long Pool noted, "20 have electric and water and the remaining are primitive. All the sites were roomy and separated from each other."
Generator etiquette: Be mindful of noise in quiet campgrounds. A camper at Tyler Bend mentioned problems with "some people who decided to crowd us and run a loud generator despite the campground being mostly empty."
