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Camping near Ouachita National Forest

906 Reviews

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.

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Best Camping Sites Near Ouachita National Forest (206)

    1. Denby Point

    18 Reviews
    Mount Ida, AR
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (870) 867-4475

    $14 - $65 / night

    "I took off one star because this site, while located right on the water, is very unlevel."

    "We booked late but were able to find a great spot with lots of trees surrounding us, spread out, and a lake view."

    2. COE Lake Ouachita Crystal Springs Campground

    44 Reviews
    Royal, AR
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (501) 991-3390

    $14 - $80 / night

    "This site also backs to the lake which is nice except that people would park their boats on the shore and walk through the site at which I was camped. This was a first for me."

    "It had trees for a couple hammocks, a picnic table and firepit facing the water(most of the sites are lakeside with wonderful views), and was an easy pull-thru for our vintage Avion trailer."

    3. Crystal Campground

    10 Reviews
    Norman, AR
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (501) 321-5202

    "Located in Ouachita National Forest, this campground is easy to get to. Ideal for tent, vans, even tear drop campers. No hook ups. Some sites had really good solar potential, most were well shaded."

    "It is located very central to a lot of quartz crystal mines. 3 miles down the road is collier spring where 1 can get all the drinkable fresh mountain spring water 1 wants."

    4. Washita Primitive Camping Area

    5 Reviews
    Story, AR
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (501) 767-2101

    "I arrived at my campground - site 68 in Loop D to realize I booked a site right next to the road."

    "We had a spot overlooking the lake, which was beautiful. It's a super quiet and peaceful lake. Lots of kayaks and canoes. We also enjoyed the hiking trails. The walk-in tent site area is amazing!"

    5. Ouachita Campground at Edendell

    1 Review
    Oden, AR
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (870) 681-1884

    $20 - $50 / night

    6. Blue Knob Road in Ouachita National Forest

    2 Reviews
    Oden, AR
    7 miles

    "I have a 30ft Class C which is probably the largest vehicle you would want to drive down the dirt road to this site."

    7. Shirley Creek

    2 Reviews
    Oden, AR
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (479) 394-2382

    "The nps map still has it listed as a campground, but there was a sign at the main entrance stating day use only."

    8. Tompkins Bend

    10 Reviews
    Story, AR
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (870) 867-4476

    $14 - $50 / night

    "We arrived on Friday evening and found our site was even closer to the lake than expected. We were nearly surrounded by water and it made for a pretty view--especially at sunrise."

    "The campground is nicely situated near the end of the LOViT cross country MTB/hiking trail. There are sites ranging from primitive to water and electric."

    9. Big Brushy

    1 Review
    Oden, AR
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (501) 321-5202

    10. Lake Ouachita State Park Campground

    47 Reviews
    Mountain Pine, AR
    33 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 287-2757

    "We had a lovely time tent camping at Lake Ouachita. It was a last minute Memorial Day weekend plan, so there wasn't much research before hand."

    "We used this State Park as our base camp for visits to Hot Springs National Park and Garvan Woodland Gardens

    We stayed in the walk-in section of the park."

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Recent Camping Photos near Ouachita National Forest

256 Photos of 206 Ouachita National Forest Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Ouachita National Forest

906 Reviews of 206 Ouachita National Forest Campgrounds

Guide to Ouachita National Forest

Camping near Ouachita National Forest, Oklahoma, offers a mix of stunning scenery and outdoor fun. Whether you’re into hiking, fishing, or just relaxing by the water, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful area.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the many trails in the area. Campers love the access to nature trails, with one reviewer noting, “The hiking trails were breathtaking and well-maintained” at Mount Magazine State Park Campground.
  • Swimming and Water Activities: Enjoy the clear waters of Lake Ouachita. One visitor at Lake Ouachita State Park Campground mentioned, “The lake is beautiful and all tent sites have access to the water.”
  • Fishing: Cast a line in the lake or nearby rivers. A camper at Daisy State Park Campground shared, “The lake was clean to swim in and great for fishing.”

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Many campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. One reviewer at COE Lake Ouachita Crystal Springs Campground said, “The bathrooms were very good and clean.”
  • Spacious Campsites: Campers enjoy the large, well-maintained sites. A visitor at Denby Point remarked, “The site is HUGE!! You can’t hardly even see your neighbors.”
  • Friendly Staff: Many reviews highlight the helpfulness of the camp hosts and rangers. One camper at Charlton Campground noted, “The camp host was friendly and made our stay enjoyable.”

What you should know:

  • Limited Cell Service: Be prepared for spotty cell reception in some areas. A camper at Mount Magazine State Park Campground mentioned, “Cell service was spotty, but the views made it worth it.”
  • Wildlife: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. One camper at Cossatot Falls Campsites warned, “Raccoons were active at night and grabbed any food or trash accidentally left out.”
  • Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. A visitor at Daisy State Park Campground advised, “Expect to book a year in advance during summer.”

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with swimming areas and playgrounds. One family at COE Lake Ouachita Crystal Springs Campground enjoyed, “The marina has kayak rentals and also canoes, boat rides, pedal boats, etc.”
  • Safety First: Always supervise kids near water. A camper at Lake Ouachita State Park Campground mentioned, “I felt comfortable with the kids swimming safely.”
  • Plan for Meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals or snacks. One camper at Daisy State Park Campground noted, “The camp store sold firewood, ice, and souvenirs.”

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Accessibility: Some sites can be tricky to access. A reviewer at Denby Point mentioned, “Some sites are hard to get to, but the ranger switched our location to one that worked better.”
  • Full Hookups Availability: Look for campgrounds with full hookups if you need them. A camper at Treasure Isle R.V. Park appreciated, “The sites are pull-through but not paved.”
  • Quiet Hours: Be mindful of noise levels, especially at night. One camper at Treasure Isle R.V. Park suggested, “I wish quiet hours were enforced.”

Camping near Ouachita National Forest, Oklahoma, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. With beautiful campgrounds and plenty of activities, you’re sure to have a memorable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit for dispersed camping in Ouachita National Forest?

No permit is required for most dispersed camping in Ouachita National Forest. Sites like Dispersed FR132 Ouachita National Forest and North Fork Creek Rd (FR779) Dispersed are free to use without advance reservations. However, you must camp in previously used sites with established fire rings, stay at least 100 feet from water sources, and follow Leave No Trace principles. Some areas have a 14-day stay limit within a 30-day period. While permits aren't needed for general dispersed camping, special permits may be required for large groups or commercial activities. Always check current regulations with the nearest ranger district office before your trip, as restrictions may change seasonally.

What are the regulations for camping in the Ouachita Mountains?

Camping regulations in the Ouachita Mountains require campers to pack out all trash and practice Leave No Trace principles. At Straight Creek Campsite on the Eagle Rock Loop and other primitive sites, camping is limited to designated areas. Group sizes are restricted, with larger groups needing to reserve facilities like Camp Clearfork. Campfires are permitted in established fire rings only and may be prohibited during dry seasons. Most developed campgrounds have 14-day stay limits. Bear precautions are necessary throughout the forest, requiring proper food storage. Overnight parking at trailheads typically requires a recreation pass. Motorized vehicles must stay on designated roads and camping is not permitted within 100 feet of water sources.

Where are the best campgrounds in Ouachita National Forest?

Ouachita National Forest offers diverse camping options for all preferences. Crystal Campground is highly rated for tent campers and small trailers, featuring picnic tables, fire pits, and refreshing spring water with bear-proof trash receptacles. For backpackers, the Long Creek Campsite on the Eagle Rock Loop offers beautiful primitive camping accessible only by trail. Other excellent options include Denby Point for lakeside camping, Camp Clearfork for large groups (must be reserved through the Forest Service), and Tompkins Bend for those wanting more amenities. The forest also features numerous dispersed sites along forest roads for those seeking solitude and a more rustic experience.

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