17 Ozark-St Francis Boondocking Locations: If you’re itching to boondock near the Ozark-St. Francis National Forests, you’ve got a ton of choices. These spots are quiet, free, and tucked away—perfect if you want to park your RV or pitch a tent far from the usual crowds. Check out these 21 boondocking spots to soak up nature without fees or packed campgrounds.
Most of these places are primitive, meaning you won’t find many (or any) amenities. That’s part of the charm, honestly. Some spots have marked trails and easy access to hiking right from your site. Cold Creek Valley and Upper Buffalo Wilderness are favorites for their peace and scenery.
Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or a longer escape, you’ll find a mix of landscapes and levels of seclusion. This guide should help you zero in on the right spot for your camping style.
About This Location
The Ozark-St. Francis National Forests sprawl across Arkansas, covering almost 500,000 acres. You’ll find tons of boondocking options, from dense woods to open meadows. These forests are part of a larger region that also includes the Ouachita National Forest.
A lot of campsites are pretty easy to reach from towns like Eureka Springs. If you’re up for more exploring, Hot Springs National Park isn’t far. That place is famous for—you guessed it—hot springs and old bathhouses. It’s a nice way to unwind after a few days in the wild.
Nearby, the Buffalo National River is a solid pick for hiking and fishing. You can also check out Blanchard Springs Caverns, a massive cave system open to visitors. If you want mountain views, don’t skip Mount Magazine.
You’ll get a quiet, natural setting for your boondocking adventure. Most sites are primitive—no hookups, no facilities. So yeah, you’ll need to bring your own supplies and pack out all your trash.
Here’s what you’re in for:
- Varied terrain: forests, rivers, caves
- Close to towns: easy to grab supplies
- No amenities: bring water, food, gear
- Nearby attractions: hiking, caving, wildlife watching
If you’re after a rugged Arkansas wilderness experience, you’re in the right place.
Location And Access
The Ozark-St. Francis National Forests stretch over 1.2 million acres in Arkansas. Boondocking spots are scattered all over—some in the Ozark section, some in St. Francis. Even the sites close to major roads still feel pretty secluded.
Most locations are off gravel or dirt roads that are usually in decent shape. You’ll spot parking areas near trailheads or along creeks and overlooks. Some roads can get rough, though, so check conditions before you go—sometimes you’ll need a high-clearance ride or four-wheel drive.
Here’s a quick look at access:
| Area | Road Type | Vehicle Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Barkshed Recreation | Gravel/Dirt Roads | Standard vehicle usually OK |
| Big Piney Ranger | Mixed terrain | High clearance or 4WD recommended |
| Hurricane Creek | Dirt Roads | Four-wheel drive advised |
| East Fork Wilderness | Narrow, rough roads | 4WD or off-road vehicle best |
Most dispersed camping spots don’t require a permit, but some areas do have seasonal rules. Cell service is spotty at best—don’t count on it. Tell someone where you’re headed before you disappear into the woods.
Offline maps and GPS are your friends here. But honestly, bring a printed map too, just in case. Ranger stations can give you the latest scoop on road and weather conditions.
Directions: How To Get There And What To Expect
To get to these boondocking spots, look up key access points like Kapark Trailhead or Hawksbill Crag. From towns like Fallsville or Clarkesville, Arkansas Highway 21 is your main drag.
Say you’re starting in Fallsville: take AR Hwy 21 east for about 1.25 miles, then turn onto Forest Road 1463. Head north six miles to hit some trailheads. If you’re coming from Clarkesville, drive north on AR 21 and you’ll pass through the forest and reach places like Scenic Point Overlook.
Expect rough roads—unpaved, sometimes rutted, sometimes muddy. Many of the best sites really do need a high-clearance vehicle. A topographic map is super handy if you’re venturing off the main roads.
There are four main access points for the Upper Buffalo Wilderness: Hawksbill Crag, Kapark Cemetery, Dahl Memorial, and Boen Gulf. They’re all solid starting points.
Roads can get sketchy if it rains, and cell service is unreliable. Bring all your supplies—there’s nothing out there but trees, rocks, and sky.
Don’t forget:
- No water or power
- Pack out your trash
- Follow forest rules
A little planning goes a long way out here.
Amenities And Activities
If you’re picking a boondocking spot in Ozark-St. Francis, expect it to be pretty basic—sometimes really basic. Amenities are rare, so bring everything you’ll need.
Some sites have fire rings or picnic tables, which are nice for cooking and eating, but don’t count on it everywhere. A portable stove is a smart backup.
You can camp in a tent, RV, or van. Small and mid-size RVs usually fit; big rigs might have trouble with narrow roads or tight parking. Check in advance if you’re driving something huge.
There’s plenty to do nearby. Trails like the North Sylamore are great for hiking, and the creeks and rivers offer good fishing.
Blanchard Springs Caverns is a cool spot for a cave tour or just a break from camp life. It’s close enough for a quick day trip if you’re itching for something different.
Wildlife watching and photography are a big draw. The forest is full of critters and wildflowers—don’t forget your camera.
Most sites require you to pack out all your waste. Keeping things clean is just good manners and helps protect the place for everyone.
| Amenity | Availability |
|---|---|
| Fire Rings | Many, but not all sites |
| Picnic Tables | Select locations |
| Water Hookups | Rare |
| RV Access | Small to mid-size RVs only |
| Hiking Trails | Multiple nearby options |
| Family Activities | Visitor centers like Blanchard Springs |
Camping Regulations And Restrictions
Camping in the Ozark-St. Francis National Forests means you can use dispersed camping areas for up to 30 days. After that, you’ve got to move at least five miles away before you set up again. It’s a way to protect the land and keep things fair for everyone.
Primitive camping is fine in most places, but steer clear of private property and sensitive zones. Always double-check for local restrictions before you hunker down.
Fires are usually allowed in established rings or campsites. If you build one, keep it small and make sure it’s out cold before you leave. Sometimes there are fire bans in dry weather, so pay attention to any posted signs.
Stick to Leave No Trace basics: pack out your trash, don’t trample plants, and give wildlife space. It’s just good camping etiquette.
Keep your campsite small and use existing clearings or roads. Don’t build anything permanent or dig new fire pits.
Here’s a cheat sheet:
| Rule | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum stay | 30 days per dispersed camping area |
| Moving after 30 days | At least 5 miles away |
| Fires | Use existing fire rings, obey bans |
| Trash | Pack out all trash |
| Campsite impact | Use existing sites, no new clearing |
Following these keeps your trip legal—and the forest beautiful.
Leave No Trace
Camping in the Ozark-St. Francis National Forests? Leave No Trace is the name of the game. It’s about keeping the land as wild and clean as you found it.
Set up camp on bare dirt or durable ground—don’t crush the plants or grass. If there’s no designated site, look for a spot that’ll do the least harm.
Take out all your trash, even food scraps. Don’t bury or burn anything. Bring a trash bag and use it.
Never cut live trees or branches for firewood—use only dead wood you find on the ground. Keep fires small and use established rings if there’s one around.
Watch wildlife from a distance. Don’t feed animals or leave food out. Store your food tight so critters don’t come sniffing.
Keep it quiet out there. The forest is peaceful, and it’s better when everyone can enjoy the calm.
Explore Southern History
U.S. Forest Service
Arkansas Tourism
National Forest Foundation
Upper Buffalo Trails Boondocking
35.875756, -93.517144
Upper Buffalo Trails Boondocking is located near the Upper Buffalo Mountain Bike Trail system in the Ozark National Forest. This dispersed roadside spot sits along a forest road and offers primitive camping for vehicles and tents. While it’s not an official campground, the pull-off area is used frequently by trail users looking for quick overnight access to the surrounding mountain biking trails.
Things to Do: The primary attraction is the Upper Buffalo Mountain Bike Trail network, which includes over 40 miles of singletrack through wooded hills, stream crossings, and ridge climbs. Hiking and photography are also popular, especially with the scenic overlooks nearby. Wildlife is common in this part of the forest.
Directions: From Ponca, take Highway 43 south to Forest Service Road 1463. Follow the road about 3 miles into the forest. The boondocking area is an obvious wide spot along the side of the road.
Vehicle Access: Access is via a gravel road. High clearance is not necessary under dry conditions, but the area may become muddy after rain. Most vans, SUVs, and small trailers can use this site. There are no amenities, so pack in all supplies and follow Leave No Trace.
Upper Buffalo Bike Trails Boondocking
35.855749, -93.49358
Upper Buffalo Bike Trails Boondocking is another informal camping location near the Buffalo Headwaters mountain bike trail system. This site is located slightly deeper into the forest than the roadside area and provides a more tucked-away spot for tent or vehicle camping. It’s surrounded by thick woods and offers more seclusion while still being close to trail access.
Things to Do: Mountain biking is the main draw, with a dense trail network built for all levels of riders. The trails feature creek crossings, rock gardens, and scenic ridges. Hiking is also available, and the quiet setting is ideal for relaxing or birdwatching. Fall foliage in this area is especially impressive.
Directions: From the intersection of Highway 21 and County Road 154, take the county road into the Ozark National Forest and follow signs or GPS to the trailhead. The site is a small clearing off the road used by trail users and campers.
Vehicle Access: This location is reached by gravel forest roads. The route may be rutted or soft during wet weather. Most vehicles can reach it when dry, but low-clearance cars should use caution. No restrooms or water are available, so arrive fully prepared and pack out all trash.
Sam Throne RA Boondocking
35.879031, -93.045108
Sam Throne Recreation Area is a popular rock climbing and hiking destination located in the Ozark National Forest. The site offers primitive, free camping in a gravel loop near the trailhead, surrounded by pine and hardwood forest. There are no formal campsites, but several flat areas are commonly used by campers, climbers, and hikers. The area has a vault toilet but no running water or trash services.
Things to Do: This site is best known for its rock formations and climbing routes, including the iconic Sam’s Throne bluff overlook. Hikers can explore short trails and enjoy sweeping views of the Ozark Mountains. It’s also a peaceful place for photography and watching the sunrise or sunset over the bluffs.
Directions: From Mount Judea, head north on AR-123 for 5 miles. Turn east onto Forest Road 1205 and continue about 2 miles. The recreation area and camping loop will be on the left.
Vehicle Access: The gravel loop is suitable for cars, vans, and small campers. Larger RVs may have trouble due to the road’s tight turns and limited turnaround options. The road can be rough after rain, so 4WD or high clearance is recommended during wet conditions.
Haw Creek Falls RA Boondocking
35.677, -93.25505
Haw Creek Falls Recreation Area, located off Arkansas Highway 123, offers primitive camping with the relaxing sounds of cascading waterfalls nearby. This small campground in the Ozark National Forest features a handful of walk-in and drive-up sites. It includes vault toilets and picnic tables, but no drinking water or trash removal. Camping is free and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Things to Do: The primary draw is the namesake Haw Creek Falls, which flows over large flat rocks, forming shallow pools ideal for wading and photography. There are hiking trails nearby, including access to Pam’s Grotto and other seasonal waterfalls. Birdwatching and wildlife sightings are also common.
Directions: From Hagarville, head north on AR-123 for 14 miles. The entrance to Haw Creek Falls will be on the left, marked by a Forest Service sign.
Vehicle Access: The road is paved to the entrance, and most of the sites are accessible for cars, vans, and small trailers. Large RVs may struggle with the tight layout and limited parking. Due to proximity to the water and low-lying ground, the area may flood after heavy rain. Check weather conditions before your visit.
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.
Indian Creek Road 1 Boondocking
35.70568, -93.14015
Indian Creek Road 1 Boondocking is a basic dispersed camping spot located on a gravel road near the Indian Creek Trailhead, a well-known hiking route within the Ozark National Forest. The site consists of a wide gravel turnout with flat ground suitable for a tent or vehicle camper. It is close to hiking access but offers no services or formal layout.
Things to Do: Hiking the nearby Indian Creek Trail is the top activity, with the trail leading to scenic waterfalls, swimming holes, and bluff views. The trail is considered moderately difficult and is best suited for experienced hikers. Wildlife viewing and photography are also popular here.
Directions: From Jasper, head west on Highway 74. Turn onto Indian Creek Road and follow it south for about 2 miles. The pull-off will be visible along the road before reaching the end of the trail access.
Vehicle Access: Indian Creek Road is gravel and may be narrow in places. The site is accessible to most vehicles in dry conditions. High-clearance is not always required, but the road can become difficult after rain. There are no toilets or water, so campers must bring everything they need and follow Leave No Trace.
Indian Creek Road 2 Boondocking
35.67417, -93.13859
Indian Creek Road 2 Boondocking is another informal camping pull-off further down the same forest road that leads to Indian Creek Trail. This spot is quieter and more secluded than the first location and sits in a wooded area with some tree coverage. It offers a flat area off the gravel road where tents or small vehicles can set up for the night.
Things to Do: This site is also near the Indian Creek hiking route and offers quick access to scenic natural features such as waterfalls, cliffs, and clear streambeds. The trail is rugged, making it ideal for experienced hikers and those looking to explore deeper into the backcountry.
Directions: Continue south past the first Indian Creek Road pull-off for another mile or so. The second site will appear on the left, marked by a small clearing and vehicle tracks.
Vehicle Access: The road continues to narrow and may become rutted after wet weather. Access is best suited to 4WD or high-clearance vehicles. There are no services, and cell reception is limited, so visitors should plan ahead. Pack in all water and supplies, and take all waste with you when leaving.
Fairview Trailhead Boondocking
35.738132, -93.09449
Fairview Trailhead Boondocking is located in the Ozark National Forest along Highway 16, serving as a key access point to the Ozark Highlands Trail. The area provides dispersed camping options in a small gravel lot used mainly by hikers and backpackers. There are no designated campsites, but tents and self-contained vehicles such as vans or small campers can find space to park overnight. The lot is relatively flat and surrounded by dense woods, offering some seclusion while still being directly off a paved highway.
Things to Do: The site connects directly to the Ozark Highlands Trail, offering opportunities for hiking, backpacking, and wildlife watching. This area is also near the Hurricane Creek Wilderness, a popular destination for those seeking backcountry solitude and scenic bluff views.
Directions: From Deer, Arkansas, take Highway 16 east for approximately 8 miles. The trailhead parking area is marked and located just off the highway, with space for several vehicles.
Vehicle Access: The parking area is gravel and accessible to cars, vans, and smaller RVs. It is not suited for large rigs due to tight space and limited turnaround room. There are no restrooms or water, so campers must come fully self-contained and follow Leave No Trace practices.
Falling Water Creek Boondocking
35.7348, -92.93365
Falling Water Creek Boondocking is located along Falling Water Road in the Ozark National Forest. This popular dispersed camping area sits beside the scenic Falling Water Creek, known for its clear, shallow pools and multiple small waterfalls. Camping is informal, with several established pull-offs and flat areas along the gravel road, most right next to the creek. The sound of rushing water and shade from the surrounding forest make this a peaceful and highly sought-after spot.
Things to Do: Visitors can enjoy wading and relaxing in the creek, photography, and short hikes around the area. Twin Falls and Richland Creek are nearby, both offering more swimming holes and waterfall views. The area is popular on weekends, so arriving early can help secure a good site.
Directions: From the intersection of AR-7 and AR-16 near Pelsor, head east on AR-16. Turn right onto Falling Water Road (gravel), and continue approximately 5 miles. Sites appear along both sides of the road.
Vehicle Access: Falling Water Road is gravel and passable by most vehicles in dry weather. Low-clearance cars may need to drive carefully. Larger rigs should proceed with caution, as turnouts are small and turning around can be difficult.
Lee Creek Boondocking
35°42’08.9″N 94°19’41.0″W
Lee Creek is a peaceful dispersed camping area in northwestern Arkansas, located just off Highway 220. Situated near Natural Dam and only a short drive from the Oklahoma border, this location offers quiet seclusion while remaining easily accessible. The camping area lies along Lee Creek itself, and while it’s relatively primitive, it provides enough space for both tent campers and smaller RVs. The landscape features forested surroundings, flat clearings, and access to the creek, creating a scenic environment ideal for those seeking relaxation.
Things to Do: Visitors often enjoy wading, fishing, or simply relaxing beside the flowing creek. Hiking opportunities exist on nearby trails, and scenic drives along Highway 220 through the Ozark National Forest make for a pleasant day trip. Photography and wildlife watching are also common, with deer, birds, and small woodland animals frequently seen in the area.
Directions: From Natural Dam, Arkansas, take Highway 220 south for approximately 2.5 miles. The site is accessed via a small gravel pull-off from the highway. There is no signage marking the boondocking area, so keep an eye on your GPS when nearing the coordinates.
Vehicle Access: The pull-in is gravel and generally manageable for passenger vehicles, small trailers, and vans. Larger rigs may have trouble turning around in tight spots.
Mulberry River Heights Boondocking
35°40’32.0″N 93°45’06.7″W
Mulberry River Heights is a dispersed camping site situated above the Mulberry River, offering scenic views and basic camping in a forested location within the Ozark National Forest. This site sits along a ridge accessible from Forest Road 1505 and is known for its peaceful surroundings and proximity to outdoor recreation areas. While it does not offer any hookups or developed facilities, it’s a reliable spot for campers looking to stay close to the Mulberry River while remaining away from busy campgrounds.
Things to Do: Popular activities in the area include fishing, kayaking, and canoeing on the Mulberry River. The nearby Ozark Highlands Trail provides excellent hiking opportunities, and visitors often enjoy spotting birds and deer in the forested hills. Campers frequently use this location as a basecamp for rafting trips or to access nearby swimming holes.
Directions: From Cass, Arkansas, travel northeast on Highway 215 for 3.8 miles, then turn east onto Forest Road 1505. Continue for 2.3 miles, and the camping area will be along the ridge near the coordinates listed. The road is gravel and climbs in elevation as it approaches the ridge.
Vehicle Access: The access road is narrow and not maintained for heavy traffic. High-clearance vehicles are strongly recommended. Small trailers and vans can make it with caution.
Ozark-St Francis National Forest Campgrounds
Richland Creek RA Camground
35.79718, -92.932695
Richland Creek Recreation Area Campground is a scenic and remote campground located in the Ozark National Forest. Though not strictly a boondocking site, this campground is free or low-cost and used similarly by self-contained campers and backpackers. The area offers a few designated sites along the river with basic amenities like vault toilets, though there are no hookups or potable water.
Things to Do: This campground is a base for exploring the Richland Creek Wilderness. Hikes to Twin Falls, Richland Falls, and Six Finger Falls begin nearby. The river provides swimming holes, bouldering areas, and quiet spots for fishing or photography. In autumn, the area draws visitors for fall foliage.
Directions: From Ben Hur, head north on Forest Road 1205 for about 9 miles. The road is gravel and winds through the forest to the recreation area.
Vehicle Access: The access road is narrow and rough, best suited for high-clearance or four-wheel drive vehicles. Trailers longer than 20 feet are not advised. The campground is primitive—bring your own water and supplies. Fire rings are available at some sites. All visitors must pack out trash and practice Leave No Trace.
Moccasin Gap Horse Camp Camground
35.573821, -93.06845
Moccasin Gap Horse Camp is located in the Ozark National Forest and is a great destination for equestrian campers. This site offers large, flat areas ideal for horse trailers and tent camping. The campground has basic amenities, including picnic tables and fire rings, but there are no hookups available. The surrounding area features miles of horse trails that wind through the scenic Ozark hills.
Things to Do: The main draw here is the extensive horseback riding trails. These trails are well-maintained and offer beautiful views of the forest. Hiking and fishing are also popular activities in the area. There are nearby streams that are perfect for a refreshing dip or casting a line.
Directions: From the intersection of Highway 21 and Highway 23, travel east on Highway 21. Turn onto Forest Road 1504 and follow it to the Moccasin Gap Horse Camp.
Vehicle Access: The campground is accessible via gravel roads, and it is usually passable for most vehicles, including those pulling horse trailers. There are no hookups, and the site is best suited for self-sufficient campers. The facilities are basic, with pit toilets available, but no drinking water provided.
Wolf Pen Campground
35°40’33.5″N 93°37’50.5″W
Wolf Pen Recreation Area is a primitive campground located in the Ozark National Forest near Oark, Arkansas. Situated along the Mulberry River, this secluded site is popular with campers looking for a natural escape. The area features basic campsites with picnic tables and fire rings. A vault toilet is available, but there is no potable water or electrical hookups.
Things to Do: Wolf Pen is ideal for river-related activities such as fishing, wading, and kayaking. The Mulberry River is seasonally popular for floating, especially in the spring and early summer when water levels are higher. Surrounding forest trails are suited for hiking and exploring, while the scenic drive to the site is a draw in itself. Birdwatching and wildlife spotting are also common in the quiet setting.
Directions: From Oark, Arkansas, take County Road 5440 northeast and follow the signs for Wolf Pen. The route involves several miles of gravel roads through forested terrain. GPS is recommended for accurate navigation, as signage can be sparse.
Vehicle Access: Access roads are gravel and can be rough or muddy depending on weather conditions. High-clearance or four-wheel-drive vehicles are recommended during wet periods. This is a pack-in, pack-out area with no trash services, so visitors should plan accordingly and follow Leave No Trace practices.
Long Pool Campground
35°32’56.6″N 93°09’31.0″W
Long Pool Recreation Area is a developed camping and recreation spot located in the Ozark-St. Francis National Forest near Dover, Arkansas. Set along Big Piney Creek, this site features designated campsites with picnic tables, fire rings, drinking water, and vault toilets. It’s a popular destination for weekend campers, paddlers, and anglers seeking scenic views and outdoor activities in a remote forested setting.
Things to Do: The main highlight is access to Big Piney Creek, known for excellent kayaking, canoeing, and swimming in clear water pools. Fishing is also common, with species such as smallmouth bass in the creek. The recreation area includes short hiking trails, and the nearby forest roads offer extended routes for exploration. Families appreciate the easy river access and shaded picnic areas.
Directions: From Dover, Arkansas, travel north on Highway 7 for 6 miles, then turn west on Highway 164. After 3 miles, take Forest Service Road 1804 north and follow signs for Long Pool Recreation Area. The road is paved most of the way with gravel sections near the site.
Vehicle Access: The roads are generally suitable for most vehicles in dry weather, though trailers and RVs should proceed with caution. Some campsites can accommodate medium-sized RVs. Due to its developed nature, this site is suitable for both tent camping and vehicle camping.
White Rock Campground
35°41’27.4″N 93°57’24.7″W
White Rock Campground is a developed mountain-top camping area located at the summit of White Rock Mountain in the Ozark National Forest. It offers designated campsites, scenic overlooks, vault toilets, and picnic tables. While not fully primitive, it caters well to those looking for a mix of backcountry feel and some basic infrastructure. The panoramic views from White Rock Mountain are some of the best in western Arkansas, making this a sought-after destination.
Things to Do: Hiking is a major activity here, with access to the White Rock Rim Trail and a trailhead for the Ozark Highlands Trail. The overlook provides breathtaking views, especially at sunrise and sunset. There are fire rings at most sites, and stargazing is excellent due to minimal light pollution. During fall, the foliage in the valley below draws photographers and sightseers alike.
Directions: From Shores Lake, head west on Forest Road 1505 for approximately 3.7 miles. Follow the signs for White Rock Mountain and continue uphill. The road is gravel but maintained for general use.
Vehicle Access: The campground is accessible by most vehicles, including small RVs and vans. However, due to the steep and winding gravel road, long trailers and large motorhomes are not recommended.
Redding Campground
35°40’54.8″N 93°47’10.5″W
Redding Campground is a developed campsite along the Mulberry River, managed by the U.S. Forest Service and located in the Ozark National Forest. It offers a more structured camping experience while still being immersed in nature. Amenities include vault toilets, picnic tables, fire rings, and potable water during the main season. The river runs directly adjacent to the campground, giving campers direct access for fishing, wading, and paddling.
Things to Do: Kayaking and canoeing are top activities during spring and early summer when the Mulberry River is flowing steadily. Anglers often catch smallmouth bass and other freshwater species. Hiking is accessible via the nearby Redding/Spy Rock Loop Trail, which features scenic forest paths and leads to a bluff overlook. Wildlife viewing is another draw, particularly for birdwatchers.
Directions: From Cass, Arkansas, take Highway 215 east for 3.2 miles. The entrance to Redding Campground is marked and located on the north side of the highway. It’s easy to spot with clear signage and a gravel access road.
Vehicle Access: The campground is accessible for all vehicle types, including RVs up to medium size. The gravel roads are well-maintained, and individual campsites have enough space for tents or compact RV setups.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can boondock in a lot of the Ozark-St Francis National Forests, but some spots are off-limits. Maps and guides are super helpful for finding the best places. Knowing the rules and camping responsibly is important for keeping the forest healthy.
What are the permitted areas for boondocking in the Ozark-St Francis National Forests?
You’re allowed to boondock almost anywhere unless signs say otherwise. Avoid wildlife food plots and protected areas. Always check local rules before setting up.
How can I find a map showing dispersed camping locations within the Ozark-St Francis National Forests?
Buy or download maps from the USDA Forest Service or stop by a ranger station. Plenty of online resources have user-made maps with marked dispersed sites. These help you find safe, legal spots.
What are some recommended spots for boondocking within the Ozarks?
Good picks include areas near Cove Lake and remote sections where camping is first-come, first-served. Look for places away from main roads for more peace and quiet. User reviews can be helpful.
Are there any regulations or permits required for dispersed camping in the Ozark-St Francis National Forests?
Most dispersed camping doesn’t need a permit or reservation. Some campgrounds do, though, so check ahead if you’re aiming for one of those. Always follow fire bans and Leave No Trace.
What should one be aware of while boondocking in the Ozark-St Francis National Forests in terms of conservation?
Pack out all trash and don’t damage trees or plants. Use established fire rings if possible, and be careful with fires. Give wildlife space and don’t feed them.
Can you suggest any free camping sites in the Ozark-St Francis National Forests with scenic views?
You’ll find a bunch of free dispersed camping spots tucked into the quieter parts of the forest, some with pretty great views of hills or lakes. Try poking around off the main roads or away from the official campgrounds if you really want scenery and a bit of peace. People in online camping groups sometimes spill the beans on their favorite hidden sites, so it’s worth checking those out too.
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