We currently have 93 listings in for Arkansas boondocking locations and camping opportunities in the state. We encourage you to add any new locations you find and if you find errors on a location submit a ticket so we can keep out listings up to date.
Arkansas Boondocking, or dispersed camping, is a great way to see the state’s varied natural settings – from dense forests to rolling mountains. Arkansas offers ample boondocking opportunity, particularly in its national forests, state-managed lands and multi-use areas.
For Arkansas boondocking try the Ozark-St. Areas for dispersed camping include Francis and Ouachita National Forests. These public lands permit camping outside established campgrounds in established areas (often via forest roads). Here campers can find scattered sites along unpaved roads or trails marked by existing fire rings but without services such as restrooms or water hookups. In both the Ozark and Ouachita forests campers may stay for up to 14 days in one location before moving, under Leave No Trace principles. National forest lands require campers stay at least 100 feet from any water source to preserve local environment and water quality.
Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) also provide Arkansas boondocking opportunities, often under the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. Although these areas are intended for hunting and fishing, dispersed camping is generally allowed provided campers abide by site-specific rules. Some WMAs have seasonal restrictions (especially during hunting season) and require campers to obtain a free camping permit. These areas are good for boondocking with outdoor sports but campers should be aware of hunting times to avoid danger.
State Parks and multi-use areas managed by the Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism do not permit traditional dispersed camping but offer off-grid-style campsites reminiscent of boondocking. A few State parks such as Hobbs state Park-Conservation Area permit backcountry camping where campers hike into a primitive site, away from developed campgrounds. These areas still enforce site selection rules, typically directing campers to existing clearings for the minimum environmental impact.
For those with off-road vehicles, BLM (Bureau of land Management) land and other federal lands provide remote, scenic boondocking, especially for campers with four-wheel-drive or ATVs. There are, however, fewer BLM sites in Arkansas. Many of these sites require climbing difficult terrain but often provide scenic secluded spots off of the beaten track. For example, the Lower Buffalo Wilderness in the Buffalo National River area offers more rugged camping for campers seeking solitude and more independent camping without facilities.
A Few Considerations For Arkansas Boondocking:
1. Water Management: Arkansas has strict rules about conserving water resources so campers should not camp too close to streams or lakes. Bring sufficient drinking water for drinking, cooking and sanitation.
2. Fire Safety: Open fires are allowed when conditions permit, so campers should check for fire restrictions and use existing fire rings where possible. Parts of Arkansas are dry, which increases fire dangers. Campers are expected to extinguish fires before leaving a site.
3. Leave No Trace Principles: The Leave No Trace ethic is important in boondocking areas and especially so in Arkansas’s ecologically sensitive environments. All wastes including food scraps and biodegradable wastes should be packed out to avoid disturbing wildlife and maintaining the natural beauty of these sites. Please follow the Leave No Trace Principles.
4. Vehicle Access and Road Conditions: In Arkansas forest roads can be rough In spots after rain, and some are unsafe for standard vehicles. Check road conditions with the Forest service or on community forums and anticipate limited cell Service in remote areas.
Boondocking in Arkansas is an inexpensive way to see the state’s natural beauty while camping in scattered locations. Following guidelines for sustainable camping can help campers keep these spaces open and clean for future visitors.
For Nationwide listings visit our homepage at Boondocking Locations
Resources on Arkansas boondocking and dispersed camping and specific forest regulations are available here:
Arkansas.com Camping Resources
USDA Forest Service, Ozark-St. Francis National Forests
USDA Forest Service, Ouachita National Forest
Only in Arkansas Boondocking Guide