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Best Dispersed Camping near Eufaula Lake

16 Reviews

Dispersed camping in the Ouachita National Forest near Eufaula Lake includes several free primitive sites with varying accessibility. Dead Man Gap Dispersed Campsite and Deadman Gap South Trail offer undeveloped camping with established fire rings but no amenities. These sites require driving on forest roads where high-clearance vehicles are recommended, particularly after rain. The main Dead Man Gap site is located near Lillard Creek, which provides a water source when flowing, though it may be dry in certain seasons.

The primitive sites accommodate tents and small setups, with some areas suitable for hammock camping due to mature pine trees. A camper noted, "There are at least 2-3 more seemingly established campsites along the same main road but along a separate turn off that looks more suited for 4 wheel drive." Both locations offer solitude, with the nearest neighbors typically hundreds of yards away. Hiking opportunities connect to the larger Ouachita Trail system. Fire restrictions may apply seasonally, so visitors should check current regulations before planning trips to these off-grid camping areas on public land.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Eufaula Lake (4)

    1. Dead Man Gap Dispersed Campsite

    9 Reviews
    Talihina, OK
    47 miles

    "As you pull off the little turn off just before (or after, depending on which way your going) the bridge of the creek, you’ll find the first spot. It’s nice with an established campfire ring, etc."

    "It also has great spots to see while hiking around. I've been here twice and loved both times."

    2. Deadman Gap South Trail Dispersed Campsite

    3 Reviews
    Talihina, OK
    47 miles

    "Private, safe, clean."

    "Small peaceful pond and is right off the Deadman South Trail."

    3. Dam Site Campground at Fort Gibson

    3 Reviews
    Okay, OK
    46 miles
    Website
    +1 (918) 682-4314

    "There is plenty to do around the area, fish, hike and explore. The people are nice and the camp host helped us out with firewood."

    "Gibson lake it a great place. The view is awesome, and there is a lot to do."

    4. Potato Hill Vista - Dispersed Camping

    1 Review
    Talihina, OK
    44 miles

    "If you're near the end (heading west) or got a late start heading east, detour north towards Potato Hill Vista for a flat area with a stone fire ring near Highway 88/1."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Eufaula Lake

11 Photos of 4 Eufaula Lake Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Eufaula Lake

16 Reviews of 4 Eufaula Lake Campgrounds

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 1, 2024

    Dead Man Gap Dispersed Campsite

    Great, quiet location.

    My buddy and I read the other reviews and decided to give this site a go. Someone was camping at the main site just off the park road, and honestly, I’m glad they were there, otherwise we wouldn’t have found the great alternative spot. As the gentleman in the other review said, there ARE three alternative spots back North a little ways on the park road. As you pull off the little turn off just before (or after, depending on which way your going) the bridge of the creek, you’ll find the first spot. It’s nice with an established campfire ring, etc. further down (you definitely want a higher riding vehicle, no sedans down this road) about 40 yards maybe is the second site. This is a great little site as well, again with an established fire ring. Go another 40 ish yards and there is the end of the side ‘road’/stone path and you’ll find the site we stayed at.
    There is a great fire pit and a well established site. As was mentioned in the other review, there was some trash about, but we cleaned it up. If you go here, practice leave no trace. Don’t be a jerk. Even if you never meet another person who camps there, if everyone treats the site like garbage it will be no good for anyone in a short amount of time.
    We noticed that there wasn’t much wildlife about and guessed it was because the creek bed was bone dry and a bunch of smoke in the are might have made them leave (there were a few wildfires in SE Oklahoma when we visited). We’ll probably find another place next time for the sake of adventure, but I could see myself coming back someday.

  • C
    Mar. 20, 2021

    Dead Man Gap Dispersed Campsite

    Great place to treat right

    Great spot. As most have said the main site that this link takes you to is up hill some ways from a creek that runs quite a way through the area snaking around and getting to various fill levels depending on recent weather. It also has great spots to see while hiking around. I've been here twice and loved both times. This second time I discovered there are it seems at least 2-3 more, seemingly established, campsites here. The ones that are not given here are along the same main road but along a separate turn off (IT IS NOT MARKED PRIVATE though there is private property marked in the area) that looks more suited for 4 wheel drive or at least something sitting higher than my small car. The furthest of these is essentially on the other side of the creek down from the main site. I can't speak to how nice they are to stay at but I imagine they are nice enough given how nice the main one is. I did walk through 2 and they didn't look bad as I walked through (the 3rd was occupied so I didn't get a look there just saw a person caming). All and all this place is great and I highly recommend. Just please don't take rocks and set up your own fire ring. The main has 2 already and the others all seem to have one. PLEASE PRACTICE LNT!!!

  • West River J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 19, 2020

    Potato Hill Vista - Dispersed Camping

    Right off the highway and right off the Ouchita Trail

    If you're near the end (heading west) or got a late start heading east, detour north towards Potato Hill Vista for a flat area with a stone fire ring near Highway 88/1. You can throw down your tent here for the night. The side trail even leads to a parking lot off the highway if you're driving and want a place to camp or want someone to pick you up a few miles closer than Talimena State park.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 8, 2020

    Dead Man Gap Dispersed Campsite

    Perfect for all

    First time in the Ouachita national forest and we found a most excellent spot next to Lillard Creek off of 6010 Deadmans trail Rd. Would recommend a 4wd vehicle. There’s a short rock trail to go up to reach the campsite, also too narrow for my Tundra. Enough space for a family or if your going on a solo camp. Done hanging out at camp? There’s an awesome trail a little north of camp called Boardstand trail, take it east and you you can follow it to 8554 Red Bank, follow it south to Ouachita Trail, then follow it west until you reach Talimena Scenic drive, then you can walk along side the road to the Scenic view of where you were just hiking and bask in its glory! Next you’ll run up on 6010 deadman’s gap trail road again. Take it back down to your camp! Your back! It’s a good 6 mile hike that will get your heart going. Steep hills, beautiful waterways, gorgeous mountains! Nothing better! The creek water runs all the time so no need for your forest noise making machine. All the sounds you’ll need are by the fire and the Lillard Creek. It was a blast! Get out there and breath the fresh air! Peace and Love, Seth Armes

  • Daniel S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 8, 2020

    Dead Man Gap Dispersed Campsite

    Solid Dispersed Campsite

    Pretty great dispersed campsite. If you're not familiar with dispersed camping, PLEASE research it before going. Completely undeveloped other than fire ring. Plenty of flat clear space for tents but we used hammocks, and plenty of trees were available for that. Campsite is right off the forest road and a few miles off the paved road. Surrounded by mature pine trees. There is a creek with a pool maybe 100 yards downhill from the campsite, great for cooling off on a hot summer day or filtering water.

  • Ryin J.
    Sep. 21, 2020

    Dead Man Gap Dispersed Campsite

    A Great Dispersed Camp in Ouachita

    We were skeptical on this spot’s location, but it was very easy to locate (the road in/out has some tough spots, 4WD would be preferred). We camped 9/19/2020 and the spot was great. The previous visitors had left the spot a mess with beer cans and food wrappers (clean up after yourselves, folks!), but after clean-up it was the perfect spot. A small running creek lies at the bottom of a short downhill hike. Our closest neighbors were at least 300 yards away and we only knew they were there because we had hiked away from our camp and noticed their fire. Highly recommend this spot for anyone willing to be 100% off-grid (no cell service or nearby bathrooms). Be weary of the spiders (daddy long legs) and stick bugs everywhere! Harmless but creeped out the young one.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 4, 2024

    Dead Man Gap Dispersed Campsite

    Great secluded spot

    Stayed here in early November the creek was dry but beautiful. We pulled of the highway and wend down deadman’s trail about halfway and pulled into a very secluded camping spot with a good amount of space with an established fire pit.

  • R
    Sep. 8, 2020

    Dead Man Gap Dispersed Campsite

    Nice spots for car camping

    Looked like there were four or five openings for a car or tent. I was the only one on the road the Friday night before Labor Day.

    Also looks like there is a trail that starts at the road and connects to the Ouachita trail. I drove down to the state park about ten minutes away but saw it marked on the trail map while hiking.

Guide to Eufaula Lake

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Eufaula Lake in Oklahoma, where nature lovers can enjoy serene landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities. This area offers several well-reviewed spots perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape.

Enjoy Hiking and Scenic Views while free camping near Eufaula Lake

  • The Dead Man Gap Dispersed Campsite provides access to beautiful trails and a picturesque creek, making it an ideal spot for hiking enthusiasts looking to explore the Ouachita National Forest.

Dispersed campers should check out Potato Hill Vista

  • Located conveniently near Highway 88, Potato Hill Vista - Dispersed Camping features a flat area with a stone fire ring, perfect for those wanting to set up camp after a day of hiking along the Ouachita Trail.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Eufaula Lake in Oklahoma

  • When visiting the Dam Site Campground at Fort Gibson, be prepared for a lively atmosphere, as this area can get crowded, but it offers plenty of activities like fishing and hiking for those who enjoy social camping experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find dispersed camping at Eufaula Lake?

Dead Man Gap Dispersed Campsite is a popular dispersed camping option near Eufaula Lake. Located in Ouachita National Forest, this site offers multiple camping spots with established fire rings. The area features a creek that runs through it (water levels vary by season) and connects to hiking trails including the Ouachita trail. While some spots are accessible directly from the forest road, others require a short hike or 4WD vehicle to reach. Look for camping areas both at the main site and alternative spots along Lillard Creek off Deadman's trail road.

What are the rules for dispersed camping at Eufaula Lake?

Dispersed camping at Eufaula Lake follows standard National Forest regulations. Sites are completely undeveloped except for fire rings. Pack out all trash—many campers report finding sites littered with beer cans and food wrappers. Camping is limited to 14 consecutive days within a 30-day period. Practice Leave No Trace principles by using established fire rings and properly extinguishing fires. Most sites like Dam Site Campground at Fort Gibson are first-come, first-served. Vehicles should remain on established roads and parking areas. No reservations are needed, but during peak seasons (summer and holidays), arrive early to secure a spot.

Are there free camping spots around Eufaula Lake?

Yes, free dispersed camping is available around Eufaula Lake. Potato Hill Vista - Dispersed Camping offers a flat area with a stone fire ring near Highway 88/1, perfect for overnight stays if you're getting a late start. It's accessible via a side trail that leads to a parking lot off the highway. Another free option is Deadman Gap South Trail Dispersed Campsite, which campers describe as private, safe, and clean. Remember that these free sites are undeveloped and operate on a first-come, first-served basis.

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