Free dispersed camping along the Talimena Scenic Drive runs through Ouachita National Forest, accessible via Forest Road 6014 near Horseleaf Springs, roughly half a mile down from the main drive. The turnoff comes up fast. Campers approaching from Talihina should watch for a clearly visible road on the left, then look right for a fire pit and a distinctive tree pattern marking the actual site. The road in is slightly rocky but manageable for vehicles with quality tires, though rain can make the entry muddy.
The site has two constructed fire pits and multiple tent placement options, with medium-to-high privacy given how quickly it passes from road view. Traffic on the scenic drive is light, with only a handful of cars passing every few hours, and the site sits far enough back that most drivers won't notice anyone camped there. Valley views are present but modest, not expansive, and one reviewer notes a red blinking light in the valley that interrupts the otherwise natural sightline. Ticks were a notable issue for at least one camper, while gnats were consistently present; mosquitoes, by contrast, were nearly absent.
Almost H. describes it as "a free remote camping spot" worth adding to a longer route through the area, which captures how this site fits best: as an overnight stop rather than a destination camp. No fees, no reservations, and pets are welcome. Campfires are permitted and firewood is reportedly plentiful on the ground. Campers wanting a developed alternative nearby can check out Winding Stair Campground (Ok) — Ouachita National Forest, about 2.3 miles west along the same corridor.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsTalimena Scenic Drive is located in Oklahoma near Big Cedar
Coordinates
34.7081496 N
94.63487436 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage
VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 7/8/26- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 7/8/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 7/8/26
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 7/8/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Talimena Scenic Drive needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 2 min from Fort Smith, AR
- 1 hr 50 min from Fayetteville, AR
- 1 hr 58 min from Hot Springs, AR
- 2 hrs 12 min from Texarkana, TX
