Best Dispersed Camping in Arkansas

Chock-full of scenic natural beauty and breathtaking geological diversity, camping in Arkansas is an experience hard to forget. Campgrounds can be found on top of magnificent mountain ranges, sparkling lakeshores, and nearly anywhere in between. Known as “The Natural State,” Arkansas boasts two mountain ranges, three national forests, 600,000 acres of lakes, and 9,000 miles of streams and rivers. In addition to numerous camping and backpacking opportunities, Arkansas is long famous for its hunting and fishing scene. So lace up your boots and get ready for an unparalleled getaway camping in Arkansas!

Take an extraordinary escape to the Ozark Mountains of Northwest Arkansas in Eureka Springs. The entire city is on the National Register of Historic Places with its carefully preserved Victorian Buildings and unique architecture built around the city’s natural springs. Numerous campgrounds near Eureka Springs offer campers an opportunity to get up close with nature while staying within reach of the city’s curvy hills and winding streets free of traffic lights.

Just south of Eureka Springs lies the Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge, dedicating 459 acres to exotic cats. The sanctuary is home to tigers, lions, leopards, and cougars. Animal lovers can enjoy guided habitat tours and open discovery areas daily.

Just over an hour from Little Rock, AR, sits the largest lake in Arkansas. Renowned for its scenic beauty and clear waters, Lake Ouachita is surrounded by the Ouachita National Forest. Named one of the cleanest lakes in America, Lake Ouachita provides campers with ample water sports opportunities, including swimming, scuba diving, and angling. The Lake Ouachita State Park also offers scenic trails, two swimming areas, and a marina with boat rentals and fishing supplies.

Embark on a gorgeous trip through The Natural State. With The Dyrt, you can be sure to find the best camping in Arkansas along the way.

Best Dispersed Sites in Arkansas (72)

    1. Sam's Throne Recreation Area

    16 Reviews
    Mount Judea, AR
    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."

    2. Harris Brake Lake

    14 Reviews
    Perryville, AR

    "The place was mowed, there was a picnic table and firepit and the previous occupant left us some gathered firewood. This is small as far as public land goes; more like a little park."

    "No amenities but it’s quiet and pretty and free. The sunset was gorgeous. A little bit of a drive off of I40 but it’s a fantastic spot. We are the only ones here"

    3. Woolum Dispersed Area — Buffalo National River

    7 Reviews
    St. Joe, AR
    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."

    4. Camp Robinson Dispersed Site

    5 Reviews
    Mayflower, AR
    Website
    +1 (833) 345-0325

    "I definitely put on bug spray right away. Nice place to sleep and get back on 40East in the morning. Doing a cross country from San Francisco to Pennsylvania."

    "Theres a flat spot at these coordinates. March so generally dry and no bugs, and a sweet low 50s morning. Nice!"

    5. Gene Rush Wildlife Management Area

    4 Reviews
    Vendor, AR

    "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."

    6. Forest Service RD 132 Ouachita National Forest

    4 Reviews
    Jessieville, AR
    Website
    +1 (501) 984-5313

    "Large site if you are sleeping on the ground bring plenty of padding it is rocky and no very flat. If you are in a rooftop there are plenty of rocks to level up on. Great views"

    "Near Oak Mtn Vista overlook. Great spot; fantastic unobstructed view of the hills to the south. Some shade in the summer. Fantastic view during the winter season."

    7. Morgan Mtn Rd/Spy Rock Dispersed

    4 Reviews
    St. Paul, AR

    "Various camp sites along a dirt road, that my AWD Equinox made it fine. Just go slow, as there are some ruts from previous rains.
    There are various outfitters along the way to the dirt road."

    "A downed tree blocks part of the view, but still has a beautiful panoramic view of the surrounding mountains."

    8. Forest Service RD 153 Ouachita National Forest

    3 Reviews
    Jessieville, AR
    Website
    +1 (501) 984-5313

    "Off grid camp site need 4×4 some washouts on forest service rd 153"

    "Located on Forest Road 153. Small site with a nice view. The view is better during winter season camping. Close to the forest road with very little traffic; may get dusty at times."

    9. Cane Creek Recreation Area

    3 Reviews
    Clarksville, AR

    "I repeat DO NOT think you can use the pit toilets here. Be self contained and you’ll be fine."

    "No water/electric or toilet. Secluded and safe. The sheriff drove through several times in the two days I was there. There are picnic tables, fire pits and a boat ramp."

    10. Lookout Tower Road

    2 Reviews
    Siloam Springs, AR

    "Less trash than most free camps. Multiple spots with plenty of room and not many bugs. Cell signal was strong in many places. Bike trails are worth using.

    Bring it in take it out, it's that easy."

    "We were in Bentonville, Arkansas and decided to take a gamble on this and it was about 40 minute drive when we got there."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews in Arkansas

101 Reviews of 72 Arkansas Campgrounds



Guide to Arkansas

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping in Arkansas, where nature lovers can find serene spots to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.

Tips for free and dispersed camping in Arkansas

Dispersed campers should check out Harris Brake Lake

  • Experience the tranquility of Harris Brake Lake, a well-reviewed spot that features picnic tables and beautiful lake views, perfect for a relaxing stay.
  • If you’re looking for a hidden gem, Brown Creek Cascade Dispersed Campsite offers a serene environment with access to hiking trails and a soothing creek nearby.
  • For those who enjoy a bit of adventure, Cove Mountain Group Dispersed is ideal for larger groups and provides ample space for outdoor activities.

Scenic views and outdoor activities for dispersed campers