6 Pinnacle Mountain Boondocking Locations: Looking for a quieter, off-grid camping experience near Pinnacle Mountain? You’re in luck—there are some great options if you want to skip the usual campgrounds. Boondocking lets you camp without hookups, often in more natural, less crowded areas near Pinnacle Mountain State Park and the surrounding forests. It’s a chance to be out there, surrounded by nature, with a bit more freedom and a lot fewer rules.
A lot of spots near Pinnacle Mountain offer dispersed camping on forest land, so you can find a place that suits your vibe. Maybe you want to be near a trailhead, or you’d rather tuck in by a creek—these boondocking sites give you some breathing room but keep you close to all the outdoor fun.
Here, I’ve rounded up six boondocking areas that are easy enough to get to and work well if you’re camping self-contained. You’ll make the most of your Pinnacle Mountain trip—no need for traditional campsites or facilities.
About This Location
Flatside Pinnacle Mountain sits in the Ouachita National Forest. It’s all about dispersed camping here—no marked campsites or amenities, just you and the woods.
The views stretch out over the Ouachita Mountains, and if you’re there in spring, wildflowers pop up all over the place. It’s hard not to stop and look around. Come fall, the colors really show off—reds, oranges, yellows everywhere. It’s a peaceful place to camp if you’re into that sort of thing.
You can set up camp in several different spots, but since nothing’s marked, you’ll have more privacy. Definitely follow Leave No Trace rules—this place deserves it.
Just a heads up: there’s no water or restrooms nearby. Bring everything you’ll need. This spot works best for folks who like things simple and quiet, with nothing but nature for company.
Location And Access
The Flatside Pinnacle area is the main hub for boondocking close to Pinnacle Mountain. It’s right by the Flatside Wilderness, so you get those Ouachita views while you camp.
To get here, you’ll usually need a 4WD vehicle. The roads and trails leading in can get pretty rough—regular cars might struggle.
You’ll find access points along forest service roads or less-maintained trails. Maps or GPS are your friends here; some routes get tricky, and signage isn’t always obvious.
Quick notes to remember:
- Vehicle: 4WD is best for rough terrain
- Roads: Mostly dirt or gravel, not exactly smooth
- Access: Sparse signage—bring a map or GPS
- Distance: Usually 15-30 minutes from the main park entrances
It’s more remote than regular campgrounds. The drive has some great scenery, but plan ahead and know your off-road limits.
Directions: How To Get There And What To Expect
To reach Pinnacle Mountain boondocking areas, start at Pinnacle Mountain State Park (9600 Highway 300, Roland, Arkansas). Use a good map or GPS that shows Forest Service roads. These roads can be rough, so check conditions before heading out.
You’ll hit unpaved, sometimes rocky paths as you drive in. Take it slow, and watch for bumps or obstacles. A capable vehicle is a must.
Elevation changes depending on the site. Some spots require a moderate climb—maybe 200 to 400 feet elevation gain—so plan your hikes with that in mind. Trails up to the summit get rocky, but the views are worth the effort.
Bring everything you’ll need: water, food, fuel, all of it. These sites are remote and completely off-grid.
At camp, don’t expect amenities. This is primitive camping—no trash pickup, no running water. Stick to Leave No Trace.
Need more info? Call the park office at 501-868-5806. Hours and access sometimes change with the seasons. Follow park rules and stick to marked roads—it helps keep the place wild.
Amenities And Activities
At these boondocking sites, you’ll find a few handy amenities. Usually, restrooms are close by, which is always a plus. There are picnic tables, grills, and firewood for cooking or just hanging out. Some spots have pavilions or open fields—good for groups or just stretching out.
If you’re camping with kids, there’s a playground area. Fishing’s an option at small lakes nearby. Parking is usually available, and you can set up tents or small RVs at most sites.
As for activities, hiking is the big draw. Trails take you to some awesome views on the mountain. You’ll find everything from easy strolls to more challenging climbs.
Wildlife’s all around—birds, deer, the occasional small mammal. Bring binoculars or a camera if that’s your thing.
Other options? Kayak on the nearby rivers, kick back by a campfire, or check out a guided program if the park’s offering one. Sometimes you get lucky and learn something new about the area.
| Amenities | Activities | Wildlife |
|---|---|---|
| Restrooms | Hiking | Birds, deer, small mammals |
| Picnic tables | Kayaking | |
| Grills & firewood | Guided programs | |
| Playgrounds | Fishing |
Camping Regulations And Restrictions
Camping near Pinnacle Mountain means following a few rules to protect the place and its wildlife. Dispersed camping is allowed, but only in approved areas. Sticking to these spots helps keep the landscape healthy.
Always pack out your trash. No one likes finding someone else’s mess. Don’t make new fire pits or cut trees for firewood. Sometimes fires are banned during dry spells, so check before lighting one.
If you want a reserved tent or RV site, you might need a permit—these can book up months ahead. Group sites have different rules and longer booking times.
Stick to existing campsites and trails. Don’t camp right next to water sources like rivers or lakes—it helps prevent pollution and keeps things cleaner for everyone.
A few key tips:
- Camp only in authorized dispersed camping areas
- Bring all your own supplies and pack everything out
- Follow fire regulations and local guidelines
- Use existing fire rings—don’t make new ones
- Avoid damaging plants or animal habitats
It’s not just about following rules—it’s about keeping Pinnacle Mountain the way it should be.
Leave No Trace
Camping near Pinnacle Mountain? Don’t forget Leave No Trace. It’s the best way to make sure the place stays special.
Pack out everything—trash, leftover food, gear, you name it. If you brought it in, take it out.
For human waste, use a trowel and dig a small hole (6-8 inches deep) at least 200 feet from trails, water, and campsites. Cover it up well.
Try not to damage plants or trees. Stick to established paths and camp on rock or dry grass. Don’t cut branches or mess with the natural habitat.
Watch wildlife from a distance. Don’t feed them or leave food scraps around.
Here’s a quick checklist:
| Action | What to Do |
|---|---|
| Trash | Pack it out—don’t bury or burn it |
| Human waste | Use catholes 6-8 inches deep |
| Wildlife | Watch, don’t feed |
| Campsites and trails | Stay on durable surfaces |
| Fires | Use existing fire rings or skip fires |
Stick to these, and you’ll help keep Pinnacle Mountain wild for everyone who comes after.
Information Resources
U.S. Parks service
Forest Service
Dept. of Wildlife
Parks and Outdoors
Tourism
Visit Boondocking Locations for over 10,000 boondocking opportunites in the United States.
Pinnacle Mountain Boondocking Locations
FR 849 Long Caney Riverside Boondocking
34.92353, -93.0517
The FR849 Long Caney Riverside Campsite is a remote, riverside boondocking location within the Ouachita National Forest. It sits alongside the South Fourche La Fave River and offers dispersed camping in a scenic, wooded setting. This is a primitive site with no amenities, best suited for tents or small campers.
Things to Do: Fishing, hiking, and relaxing by the river are the primary activities at this site. The surrounding forest is home to a range of wildlife, and the river provides peaceful surroundings for outdoor recreation.
Directions: From Jessieville, take Highway 7 south to Forest Road 849. Travel west along FR849 until you reach the river access and camping area.
Vehicle Access: The forest road is gravel and may require high-clearance vehicles, especially in wet conditions. There are no restrooms, water, or services, so visitors must pack in all necessary supplies and pack out waste. The area is quiet and offers a true off-grid experience.
Flatside Pinnacle Boondocking
34.875383, -92.903849
The Flatside Pinnacle area offers dispersed camping with panoramic views of the Ouachita Mountains. Located near the Flatside Wilderness, this site is ideal for campers looking for solitude and hiking access. There are no designated campsites, but flat clearings can be found along the gravel roads near the trailhead.
Things to Do: Hiking the Flatside Pinnacle Trail is the main draw here, with a short hike leading to an impressive vista. Birdwatching, photography, and stargazing are also popular due to the remote setting.
Directions: From Highway 9, head west on Forest Road 132. Follow signs for Flatside Pinnacle. The best camping spots are near the trailhead or pull-offs along the road.
Vehicle Access: The gravel road is usually accessible to most vehicles but may be rough in places. There are no services, toilets, or water, so campers must be fully self-sufficient. The views and quiet make this a rewarding spot for experienced boondockers.
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store – Conway
35°06’36.1″N 92°25’55.3″W
Cracker Barrel in Conway, Arkansas, is an informal overnight stop for self-contained RV travelers. Located just off Interstate 40, this paved lot is level and easy to access for larger rigs. While not an official campground, it is frequently used by road-trippers and van dwellers looking for a quiet night’s rest close to town. There are no designated RV spots, but long spaces along the lot’s perimeter are commonly used for boondocking.
Things to Do: The restaurant itself offers dine-in meals and retail shopping, making it a convenient place to grab dinner or breakfast before hitting the road. Conway has nearby services including fuel stations, grocery stores, and big-box retail outlets. There are no recreational amenities on-site, but Cadron Settlement Park and Beaverfork Lake Park are a short drive away for day use.
Directions: From Interstate 40, take Exit 127 (Oak Street/Hwy 64). Head east briefly, then turn right onto Amity Road. Cracker Barrel will be on the left side, adjacent to hotels and other dining options.
Vehicle Access: The lot is paved and typically accessible to all vehicle types. No hookups, restrooms, or water are available for overnight guests. Overnight stays should be confirmed with store management, and guests are expected to be discreet, avoid setting up camp, and depart by morning.
Camping World, Little Rock AR
34°47’02.6″N 92°08’22.5″W
Camping World of Little Rock (9801 Diamond Drive, North Little Rock, AR 72117) generally permits overnight RV parking, but it’s advisable to confirm with the store directly before your stay.
Overnight parking is allowed at this location . However, Camping World’s overnight parking policies can vary by location and may change over time. It’s recommended to call ahead to ensure that overnight parking is currently permitted at the Little Rock store.
When staying overnight, it’s courteous to follow these best practices:
Seek Permission: Always check with store management before parking overnight.
Park Responsibly: Choose a spot that doesn’t obstruct business operations or customer access.
Limit Amenities Use: Refrain from extending slide-outs or using generators unless permitted.
Support the Business: Consider making a purchase as a thank-you for their hospitality.
If you’re unable to stay at this location, alternative options in the area include:
Cracker Barrel: Many locations allow overnight RV parking; check with the specific restaurant.
Flying J or Love’s Truck Stops: Often provide designated RV parking spaces.
Pinnacle Mountain Campgrounds
Bear Creek Equestrian Camp Campground
34.785461, -93.160629
Bear Creek Equestrian Camp is designed for horse riders and offers large, open camping areas with access to extensive riding trails. Located in the Ouachita National Forest, this primitive campground includes tie posts, picnic tables, and vault toilets, making it suitable for both equestrian and non-equestrian campers.
Things to Do: Horseback riding is the main attraction, with marked trails winding through forested hills and creek crossings. The area is also good for hiking and wildlife observation.
Directions: From Jessieville, take Highway 7 south to Forest Road 47. Follow FR47 to the Bear Creek area, where signage leads to the equestrian camp.
Vehicle Access: The site is accessible by gravel road and suitable for trucks and trailers. There are no hookups or potable water, so campers must come prepared. The campground is quiet and offers ample space for group camping with horses.
Fourche Campground
34.869682, -93.109276
Fourche Campground is a Corps of Engineers facility on the shore of Nimrod Lake in west-central Arkansas. It provides shaded campsites, many with lake views, and is a good choice for anglers and families looking for water access. Amenities include restrooms, picnic areas, and a boat ramp.
Things to Do: Fishing is popular here, with Nimrod Lake offering catfish, bass, and crappie. Boating and swimming are also available, and the surrounding area includes wildlife viewing opportunities and forest trails.
Directions: From Plainview, travel west on Highway 28, then turn south on Highway 307. Follow signs to the campground entrance near the lake.
Vehicle Access: Paved roads lead directly to the campground. Sites accommodate both tents and RVs. Facilities include vault toilets, drinking water, and trash collection. There are no hookups, but the campground is quiet and scenic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Boondocking around Pinnacle Mountain comes with its own set of quirks, rules, and access points. You might wonder about camping near the trails, what’s actually there, or if you’ll need a permit.
What are the regulations for boondocking around Pinnacle Mountain?
Boondocking is pretty limited near Pinnacle Mountain itself. You can’t camp inside Pinnacle Mountain State Park. You need to follow all local rules about staying on public lands and avoid private property.
Are there any free camping spots near Pinnacle Mountain trails?
Free dispersed camping is available outside the main park boundaries. Look for undeveloped areas on nearby public lands, but double-check that camping’s allowed.
How do I access West Summit and East Quarry Trails for an overnight stay?
Both trails are for day use only—no overnight campgrounds there. If you want to stay overnight, you’ll have to camp off-trail on permitted public land nearby, following the local rules.
Is it possible to camp along the Ouachita Trail near Pinnacle Mountain?
You can camp along the Ouachita Trail at designated spots. Use established sites and follow Leave No Trace.
What amenities are available at Pinnacle Mountain boondocking sites?
Usually, none. Boondocking sites near Pinnacle Mountain don’t have amenities, so bring your own water, toilet supplies, and camping gear.
Are permits required for dispersed camping in the Pinnacle Mountain area?
You usually don’t need a permit for dispersed camping on public lands around Pinnacle Mountain, though it’s smart to double-check with local land managers just in case the rules have changed.