Best Dispersed Camping near Yellville, AR

Dispersed camping opportunities near Yellville, Arkansas include several primitive sites within the Ozark Mountains. Woolum Dispersed Area in Buffalo National River offers riverside camping with basic vault toilets and established fire rings. Sam's Throne Recreation Area provides free primitive camping with vault toilets but no running water. Gene Rush Wildlife Management Area features designated campsites requiring permits. According to campers, Woolum offers "both a rock and sand beach" with good spacing between sites, making it popular for those seeking solitude.

Most dispersed sites in this region require self-sufficiency. No drinking water is available at these locations; visitors must pack in all water needs. Fire restrictions vary seasonally, with established fire rings at most sites. Several campers noted the presence of poison ivy around site perimeters, particularly at dispersed sites in the Ozark National Forest. Cell service is patchy throughout the region, with T-Mobile and AT&T offering limited coverage at some locations.

Wildlife Management Areas in Arkansas require specific permits. As one reviewer confirmed, "100% of Wildlife Management Areas in the state of Arkansas require a Hunting license or WMA camping permit purchased through Arkansas Game and Fish." These permits cost approximately $5 and can be obtained online. Road conditions to most sites involve gravel or dirt access roads, with some requiring high-clearance vehicles. Weather conditions vary significantly by season, with late spring bringing dogwood blooms and summer months requiring insect protection. Fall offers cooler temperatures and reduced crowds at popular sites like Sam's Throne.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Yellville, Arkansas (12)

    1. Woolum Dispersed Area — Buffalo National River

    7 Reviews
    St. Joe, AR
    21 miles
    Website

    "So many options to make your home away from home! Grassy meadows or river side oasis, you choose! This is definitely the place to go to enjoy magnificent scenery and not be distracted by technology."

    "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."

    2. Sam's Throne Recreation Area

    16 Reviews
    Mount Judea, AR
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (870) 446-5122

    "There are surrounding trails that lead to some nice spots for a stunning sunset. These seem to be free established campgrounds, not dispersed."

    "There are a few bears in the region so I would hang my food just to be safe. There aren't any specific spots for RV's but there are a few cleared areas with room to park an RV or trailer."

    3. Gene Rush Wildlife Management Area

    4 Reviews
    Vendor, AR
    25 miles

    "100% of Wildlife Management Areas in the state of Arkansas require a Hunting license or WMA camping permit purchased though Arkansas Game and Fish."

    "Spoke with Arkansas Game and Fishing Commission Ranger. No despersal camping but you can camp in the 2 designated campsites. Well designated, my post is on the further east site from Carver."

    5. Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area

    4 Reviews
    Bradleyville, MO
    33 miles
    Website

    "This area is a wilderness area so camping is plentiful.  However in this particular are there is no organized campsite specifically.  "

    "Hercules Glades Wilderness Area is part of mark Twain National Forest. It's a bit off the beaten path, but worth it for a day hike or a bit of backpacking."

    6. Hercules Glades (Watch Tower)

    3 Reviews
    Bradleyville, MO
    33 miles

    "We got here on a pretty hilly/twisty road late at night, found a spot close to the trailhead and had a quiet, peaceful night sleep. We saw just one other camper with a trailer close to the inlet."

    "Nice camping spots at the trailhead for Hercules glades. It was a beautiful, quiet area."

    7. Blair Ridge Rd Dispersed

    1 Review
    Greeson Lake, MO
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (573) 364-4621

    "Tried to camp out before backpacking through Hercules Glade Wilderness but the trailheads were packed (weekend). There are two fire rings along this road. Both locations have full bars (Verizon)."

    8. Falling Water Creek

    1 Review
    Witts Springs, AR
    37 miles
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Showing results 1-10 of 12 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Yellville, AR

33 Reviews of 12 Yellville Campgrounds



Guide to Yellville

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Yellville, Arkansas, where nature enthusiasts can find serene spots to unwind and explore the great outdoors. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, this area is perfect for those seeking adventure and tranquility.

Dispersed campers should check out Woolum Dispersed Area

  • Nestled along the Buffalo National River, Woolum Dispersed Area offers stunning riverbank views and a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for a relaxing getaway.
  • This area allows campfires, making it perfect for cozy evenings under the stars, although visitors should bring their own firewood.
  • With no permits required, it's a hassle-free option for spontaneous trips, though be prepared for a primitive experience with limited facilities.

Scenic hikes await at Sam's Throne Recreation Area

  • Located in Mount Judea, Sam's Throne Recreation Area features beautiful trails that lead to breathtaking views, perfect for hiking enthusiasts.
  • The area is pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry companions along for the adventure, enhancing your outdoor experience.
  • With vault toilets available, this spot balances convenience with the rustic charm of dispersed camping.

Enjoy the tranquility of Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area

  • For those seeking a more rugged experience, Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area offers ample opportunities for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the Ozarks.
  • This area is known for its privacy, allowing campers to immerse themselves in nature without the distractions of modern life.
  • Be prepared for a hike-in experience, as this wilderness area requires a bit of effort to reach, rewarding visitors with stunning landscapes and a true sense of adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Yellville, AR is Woolum Dispersed Area — Buffalo National River with a 4.7-star rating from 7 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 12 dispersed camping locations near Yellville, AR, with real photos and reviews from campers.