Dispersed camping along the Ozark Highlands Trail requires a short hike from the parking area to reach designated primitive sites. The US Forest Service manages this $5-per-night option within Ozark National Forest, where campers can bring pets and build campfires. Cell service reaches the area, and alcohol is permitted.
The sites sit less than a mile from White Rock Mountain Recreation Area, providing backpackers and car campers with a low-cost base for exploring the trail system. Campers should pack in all supplies and pack out all waste, as no facilities exist on-site. The location works well for hikers seeking campgrounds around Ozark National Forest without developed amenities.
Description
Ozark Highlands Trail Parking: $5 per vehicle All vehicles parking at the OHT trail head must check in at the Brown & White Office. If you are arriving earlier than 10am please call 479-369-4128 for early check-in arrangements. Ample Overnight Parking (Park in designated area only). Direct Access to Ozark Highlands Trail Incredible Scenic Overlook Multiple Picnic Sites with Tables BBQ Grills Handicapped Accessible Vault Restroom
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Dispersed CampingOHT Primitive Site is located in Arkansas
Coordinates
35.69181547 N
93.957479 W
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 4/18/26
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 4/18/26
- AT&T5GGood CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 4/18/26
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 4/18/26
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 4/18/26
- AT&T5GGood CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 4/18/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Site Types
- Dispersed
Features
For Campers
- Phone Service
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if OHT Primitive Site needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 3 min from Fort Smith, AR
- 1 hr 6 min from Fayetteville, AR
- 2 hrs 25 min from Joplin, MO
- 3 hrs from Hot Springs, AR



