Dispersed camping near Sardis Lake offers primitive sites throughout the Ouachita National Forest. Campers find isolated spots along forest roads and near small creeks that feed into the larger waterways. The terrain consists primarily of pine forest with rocky soil and moderate elevation changes. Road conditions vary seasonally with some requiring high-clearance vehicles after rainfall.
What to do
Creekside swimming: At Dead Man Gap Dispersed Campsite, a small creek runs nearby with swimming opportunities. "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," notes Daniel S.
Hiking access: Forest trails connect to the larger trail system. "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," reports Rudy D.
Wildlife viewing: The forested areas support diverse wildlife. "The pond was calm, with some bullfrogs and snakes which were cool to experience," mentions Brett F. about Deadman Gap South Trail Dispersed Campsite.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Most rustic camping areas near Sardis Lake provide separation from other campers. "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," writes Ryin J.
Natural water features: Creeks and small ponds enhance the camping experience. "We found a most excellent spot next to Lillard Creek off of 6010 Deadmans trail Rd," shares Steven A., noting the creek "runs all the time so no need for your forest noise making machine."
Established fire rings: Many dispersed sites have basic improvements. "Most camp spots you have your own driveway and large spot. Adjacent spots probably a mile apart," explains Jeanne A. about Ouachita NF - CR 51220 Dispersed.
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Some access roads need appropriate vehicles. "Would recommend a 4wd vehicle. There's a short rock trail to go up to reach the campsite, also too narrow for my Tundra," warns Steven A.
Variable site sizes: Capacity differs between locations. "If this is the site it's small. Could possibly get 3 small pickup trucks side by side in this spot," cautions Larry B. about Dead Man Gap.
Changing water levels: Creek access depends on recent rainfall. "The creek bed was bone dry and a bunch of smoke in the area might have made them leave (there were a few wildfires in SE Oklahoma when we visited)," notes John H. about Quachita NF Dispersed by Cedar Creek off 51220.
Tips for camping with families
Creepy crawlies: Prepare children for encounters with insects. "Be weary of the spiders (daddy long legs) and stick bugs everywhere! Harmless but creeped out the young one," advises Ryin J.
Trail difficulty: Some hiking routes have challenging terrain. "Steep hills, beautiful waterways, gorgeous mountains! Nothing better!" describes Steven A. about the 6-mile loop from Dead Man Gap to Boardstand Trail.
Swimming spots: Natural water features provide recreation for kids. "You're surrounded by trees, moss and running blue mountain spring water," describes Jessica W. about Pigeon Creek Dispersed.
Tips from RVers
Road navigation: Forest roads can be challenging for larger vehicles. "Took our class c down the narrow road. Pretty good mostly rock. Camp site was clean," reports Wesley H. about County Road D1590 Dispersed.
Site limitations: Some dispersed areas have space constraints. "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," shares Kaleb G.
Alternative approaches: Some sites have multiple access points. "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," suggests West River J.
