Camping near Ouachita National Forest
Camping in the Ouachita National Forest spans across both Arkansas and Oklahoma, with numerous established campgrounds and dispersed sites nestled among forested mountains and scenic waterways. The Oklahoma portion of this 1.8-million-acre national forest features a mix of developed campgrounds with amenities and primitive backcountry sites for those seeking solitude. Notable camping areas include Crystal Springs Campground and Denby Point, both offering lakeside camping with boat access. The forest is characterized by rolling mountains, clear streams, and diverse wildlife habitat, making it popular for outdoor recreation throughout the year.
Access to camping areas varies significantly across the forest, with some sites requiring travel on gravel forest roads that may have erosion issues during wet weather. Most developed campgrounds are open year-round, though services may be limited in winter months. Cell service is spotty throughout the forest, with T-Mobile coverage reported at some dispersed sites but generally unreliable in remote areas. Summer brings hot, humid conditions with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F, while spring and fall offer milder temperatures ideal for camping. Fire restrictions are common during dry summer months, and campers should check current regulations before their visit.
The forest accommodates various camping styles, from RV sites with hookups to primitive tent camping along trails. Developed campgrounds like Crystal Springs offer amenities such as drinking water, electric hookups, and picnic tables, while dispersed sites typically feature only basic rock fire rings. According to one visitor, "The forest roads reaching this part of the national forest were in good shape," though they noted that "poison ivy is present" at some sites. Fishing opportunities abound throughout the forest, with numerous lakes and streams holding bass, catfish, and sunfish. Hikers can access the Ouachita National Recreation Trail from several camping areas, providing opportunities for day hikes or backpacking trips through the scenic forest landscape.
