Ouachita National Forest dispersed camping sites near Arthur City, Texas offer primitive backcountry experiences on the Oklahoma side of the border. Cedar Creek runs through this section of the forest, creating natural water features throughout the camping areas. Most dispersed sites in this region sit at elevations between 500-800 feet, with dense forest cover providing shade during summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F.
What to do
Creek exploration: Cedar Creek provides natural swimming opportunities during warmer months. A camper at Quachita NF Dispersed by Cedar Creek off 51220 notes, "stream is 40 feet away with a swimming hole. Very private."
Forest hiking: Forest Service roads connect to informal trails throughout this area of Ouachita National Forest. Short walks from camping areas often lead to water features. One visitor to Ouachita NF - CR 51220 Dispersed advises, "Then we found the creek just east of us off a small trail. Just start walking right into the woods and you'll find it."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple creeks in the area support fishing activities. The nearby waterways contain various fish species, though weekend activity can increase during peak seasons.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Forest Service Road 51220 dispersed camping areas offer significant separation between campers. A reviewer at Ouachita NF - CR 51220 Dispersed observed, "Most camp spots you have your own driveway and large spot. Adjacent spots probably a mile apart."
Variety of site options: The dispersed camping areas include both sunny and shaded sites depending on preference. As noted by one camper, "Many camps here some small some large. Some full sun some full shade!"
Extended stays: Multiple-day camping is common in these primitive sites. One camper reported, "Stayed 5 days in all. Att service good." This suggests connectivity for those needing to maintain some communication during longer primitive camping trips near Arthur City, Texas.
What you should know
Navigation challenges: Coordinates for some sites may lead to private property. A camper at Ouachita NF - CR 51220 Dispersed warned, "Could not find. The grid coordinates lead to someones private cabin. Tucked in middles of residential cabin community. It is national forest borders but private lots."
No facilities: Primitive camping in this area means preparing for complete self-sufficiency. None of the dispersed sites provide potable water, toilet facilities, or trash service.
Campsite accessibility: Many dispersed sites have their own access points from forest roads. A visitor noted, "Most camp spots you have your own driveway and large spot," making vehicle access possible for many camping areas.
Tips for camping with families
Access to swimming: Natural water features provide recreation opportunities for children. The proximity to Cedar Creek offers natural swimming holes, as one camper at Broken Bow Dispersed off Rd 51220 found, with sites situated near water access points.
Wildlife awareness: Forest setting means potential wildlife encounters. Families should store food properly and teach children appropriate wildlife safety for this woodland setting.
Cell service considerations: Some areas maintain connectivity for emergency communication. One camper confirmed, "Att service good," which can provide peace of mind for families camping in remote locations while maintaining essential communication capabilities.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Forest roads accommodate smaller RVs better than large rigs. While some areas are accessible with RVs, the forest road conditions and site clearances generally favor compact setups rather than large motorhomes or fifth wheels.
Site selection: Arrive early to find spots with adequate clearance for your vehicle. Grasshopper Campground offers an alternative to dispersed options but comes with fees, as one camper noted, "It cost us 16 USD and was really noisy because of all the boats that came fishing in the weekend."
Level parking considerations: Prepare for uneven terrain at dispersed sites. The natural forest setting means minimal site preparation, requiring RVers to bring leveling equipment and plan for primitive conditions without hookups.
