Primitive camping near Watts, Oklahoma primarily consists of dispersed sites located across state lines in Arkansas and Missouri. Most sites sit at elevations between 1,000-1,500 feet in the forested Ozark highlands. Summer temperatures average 85-90°F during day with high humidity, while spring and fall bring unpredictable weather patterns that can affect road conditions for remote sites.
What to do
Wildlife observation: At Huckleberry Ridge Conservation Area, campers can spot local wildlife during early morning hours. "Pretty remote. Quiet," notes one visitor, adding that despite concerns they found "no ticks" during their stay.
Hiking trails: Lee Creek Off Road Site provides access to nearby trails. As one camper notes, "There's a fire pit, some paths to a hiking spot," making it convenient for those wanting to explore on foot without driving elsewhere.
Water recreation: Dam Site Campground at Fort Gibson offers multiple water activities. According to a reviewer, "You can to the dam and fish for all kinds of fish, hike in the woods, swim up at the lake, or put your boat in for a cruise."
What campers like
Proximity to mountain biking: Lookout Tower Road provides easy access to cycling opportunities. One camper mentions the "Bike trails are worth using," making it ideal for those wanting to combine camping with off-road riding.
Privacy between sites: Many dispersed camping areas offer well-spaced sites. One camper at Lookout Tower Road describes finding "Multiple spots with plenty of room" allowing groups to spread out without crowding.
Natural water features: Dispersed Near Devils Den offers creek access. A visitor describes it as a "Great hidden spot by the water" with "Nice walk trails along the water. Local stop in for swimming and fishing."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Forest service roads near Devils Den require caution. One reviewer warns, "it is a very narrow road" and describes getting "stuck in the mud immediately and had to call a tow company" costing $400.
Cellular service limitations: Connectivity is inconsistent across sites. While Lookout Tower Road has decent coverage with one camper noting "Cell signal was strong in many places," a Devils Den visitor reports having "to walk 15 minutes down the highway to get signal; no signal at all at the sites."
Site maintenance issues: Huckleberry Ridge often has vegetation management problems. One camper describes it as "overgrown with tall brush and weeds," stating their "20' trailer and truck and someone in a van are camping here and its cramped."
Tips for camping with families
Quick getaway locations: For families seeking weekend escapes, certain sites offer reasonable driving distances. A Lookout Tower Road visitor shared, "We were in Bentonville, Arkansas and decided to take a gamble on this and it was about 40 minute drive," making it accessible for last-minute trips.
Pet-friendly considerations: Many dispersed sites accommodate dogs. At Lookout Tower Road, one camper appreciated that "There was plenty of space for the dog to roam without getting into high grass where ticks would be festering."
Noise factors: Highway proximity affects some sites. At Lee Creek Off Road Site, a camper notes you're "Right off the main road (you can still hear the traffic, but it's not a lot of traffic)," which may be important for light sleepers.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed sites have vehicle restrictions. Lee Creek Off Road Site has limited space: "I don't think a bus would fit but my 21ft. van was mostly a tight fit," according to one RVer.
Larger vehicle access points: Some sites surprisingly accommodate bigger rigs. At Lookout Tower Road, one RVer reports, "I managed to get our 40 foot Bluebird Bus up here. Nice spot well ish maintained."
Regulatory warnings: Forest service rules may restrict vehicle access. A Devils Den visitor warns that "the forest service does NOT allow cars to drive on these roads anymore" and "had I gotten caught with my car in there I would have had to pay a big fine." They advise to "park on the turnout by the highway and walk in."
