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94 Free Arkansas Boondocking Locations

When it comes to Arkansas Boondocking Locations, one of it’s benefits is that you can do it whenever you want. Arkansas is an excellent place to go camping in parks or in one of the main Arkansas Boondocking sites because of its temperate climate, stunning views of the Ozark Mountains, fertile valleys, remarkable waterfalls, and some of the nicest people in the nation.

Table of Contents

Jump directly to the 29 Northwest Arkansas Boondocking Locations
Jump directly to the 23 Northeast Arkansas Boondocking Locations
Jump directly to the 41 South West Arkansas Boondocking Locations
Jump directly to the 1 South East Arkansas Boondocking Locations

Arkansas Boondocking Locations for RVs

In the RVing community, “boondocking” is a word that means the process of free camping in or outside of structured RV parks, resort towns, or landing places, whether within or outside the park’s boundaries.

Newer recreational vehicles (RVs) are self-contained vehicles that can operate on the electricity of a generator or a running car motor, making them the ideal vehicle for boondocking in a rustic or primitive setting. All that is required is that you ensure that the outdoor area you choose is on public property or that you have received approval from the property owner to stay for an overnight period.


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Best Boondocking and Hiking Trails in Arkansas



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29 Northwest Arkansas Boondocking Locations

Jump directly to the 23 Northeast Arkansas Boondocking Locations
Jump directly to the 41 South West Arkansas Boondocking Locations
Jump directly to the 1 South East Arkansas Boondocking Locations

In what used to be a sleepy corner of the state, a bustling business and cultural center has risen to prominence. You’ll never run out of things to do in Northwest Arkansas, which includes everything from antique buying to live theater and music, outdoor adventures, historic sites, and everything in between. Both the urban corridor of Northwest Arkansas and the rural areas surrounding it offer nearly limitless opportunities for entertainment for both children and adults.

Do you like to explore caves or look for haunted locations? They can be found in Northwest Arkansas. Local wineries and microbreweries often have dining rooms (and sometimes entertainment) in addition to offering free samples of their products, and they have become competitive with some of the best found in major Midwestern cities in terms of dining and lodging.

1. Arkansas Boondocking Locations – Valero

Address
Alma, Arkansas
GPS: 35.488054, -94.225369
Elevation: 420′

Management: Private – Truck Stop (Unofficial)

Gravel parking lot between a Valero fuel station in the 40 Highway. There is a sign asking you to ask for permission for long-term parking. This includes overnight parking. No hookups

2. Arkansas Boondocking Free Campsites – Lee Creek

Address
Chester, Arkansas
GPS: 35.702461, -94.328064
Elevation: 765′

Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife Service (Unofficial)

Lee Creek is open 365. There are 6-15 campsites at this location.

3. Arkansas Boondocking Spots – Morgan Mountain Deer Camps

Address
Ozark, Arkansas
GPS: 35.688493, -93.772463
Elevation: 1250′

Management: Public – Forest Service

The road in is Dirt. Morgan Mountain Deer Camps is open Year round. You may stay 14 days at Morgan Mountain Deer Camps.

4. Arkansas Boondocking Locations – Mulberry River Heights

Address
Ozark, Arkansas
GPS: 35.67555, -93.75186
Elevation: 997′

Management: Public – Forest Service (Unofficial)

On a dirt road overlooking the Mulberry Valley. Its rather a turnout in a switchback than a real campground but we stayed 2 Nights while kayaking the Mulberry River.

5. Arkansas Boondocking Free Campsites – Bear Creek

Address
Hagarville, Arkansas
GPS: 35.66917, -93.23378
Elevation: 883′

Management: Public – Forest Service

One site just off the road (FSR 1002) very secluded

6. Arkansas Boondocking Spots – Indian Creek Rd.

Address
Dover, Arkansas
GPS: 35.67417, -93.13859
Elevation: 909′

Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)

Camped in isolation along Indian Creek. Beautiful spot, isolated and next to a creek. Spent three days and saw one car the whole time.

7. Arkansas Boondocking Locations – Falling Water Creek

Address
Falling Water Road
Sand Gap, Arkansas
GPS: 35.7348, -92.93365
Elevation: 1257′

Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)

Camp site is in Ozark National Forest. Site is 50′ off of gravel road and 50′ from the creek. Site will accommodate two rigs with rooftop tents or one rig with RTT and one rig with a ground tent.

8. Arkansas Boondocking Free Campsites – Fairview Trailhead, Ozarks Highland Trail

Address
Dover, Arkansas
GPS: 35.738132, -93.09449
Elevation: 2192′

Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)

Fairview Trailhead, Ozarks Highland Trail is open spring through fall. There are 6-15 campsites at this location. You may stay 14 days at Fairview Trailhead, Ozarks Highland Trail.

9. Arkansas Boondocking Spots – Dixon Ford

Address
Pettigrew, Arkansas
GPS: 35.82306, -93.46212
Elevation: 1644′

Management: Public – State Forest (Official)

Riverside with fire ring.

10. Arkansas Boondocking Locations – Upper Buffalo Bike Trails Camp Spot

Address
Pettigrew, Arkansas
GPS: 35.855749, -93.49358
Elevation: 2346′

Management: Public – Forest Service (Unofficial)

Dispersed camp spot located near trailhead for Upper Buffalo bike trails in the Ozark – St Francis forest. Flat with fire ring.

11. Arkansas Boondocking Free Campsites – Upper Buffalo Trails Road Side

Address
Kingston, Arkansas
GPS: 35.875756, -93.517144
Elevation: 2461′

Management: Public – Forest Service (Unofficial)

Road side dispersed campsite with fire ring located in the Ozark – St Francis National Forest.

12. Arkansas Boondocking Spots – Spring Creek Campground

Address
Harriet, Arkansas
GPS: 36.030304, -92.584045
Elevation: 518′

Management: Public – National Park Service (Official)

Spring Creek is a free campground with 13 designated campsites with tables and fire rings. They are available first come/first serve. The campground has a vault toilet with limited servicing. No water available. Spring Creek Campground is open year-round. There are 6-15 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 15 feet.

13. Arkansas Boondocking Locations – South Maumee Camping Area

Address
Saint Joe, Arkansas
GPS: 36.039667, -92.635895
Elevation: 539′

Management: Public – National Park Service (Official)

The road in is Gravel. South Maumee Camping Area is open year round.

14. Arkansas Boondocking Free Campsites – Woolum Camping Area

Address
Saint Joe, Arkansas
GPS: 35.971295, -92.885251
Elevation: 662′

Management: Public – National Park Service (Official)

The road in is Gravel. Woolum Camping Area is open year-round.

15. Arkansas Boondocking Spots – Mt Hershey

Address
Western Grove, Arkansas
GPS: 36.009027, -92.953053
Elevation: 682′

Management: Public – National Park Service (Unofficial)

There are 1-5 campsites at this location. You may stay 14 days at Mt Hershey.

16. Arkansas Boondocking Locations – Erbie Campground

Address
Harrison, Arkansas
GPS: 36.073439, -93.217733
Elevation: 837′

Management: Public – National Park Service (Official)

The road in is Gravel and 7 miles from a paved road. There are 6-15 campsites at this location.

17. Arkansas Boondocking Free Campsites – Buffalo National River

Address
402 N. Walnut, Suite 136
Harrison, Arkansas
GPS: 36.0707, -93.2133

Management: Public – National Park Service (Unofficial)

The road in is Paved. Buffalo National River is open All year. There are 30 or more campsites at this location.

18. Arkansas Boondocking Spots – Arkansas Rest Area

Address
Siloam Springs, Arkansas
GPS: 36.176212, -94.562387
Elevation: 1145′

Management: Public – Rest Area (Official)

The road in is Paved. Arkansas Rest Area is open year round. The maximum RV length at Arkansas Rest Area is unlimited. You may stay overnight at Arkansas Rest Area.

19. Arkansas Boondocking Locations – The Pines (tents)

Address
Siloam Springs, Arkansas
GPS: 36.146284, -94.456599
Elevation: 1125′

Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)

Tucked away campsite off a dirt road. Tent camping only. You can camp at the end of the road by the “road closed” gate, or you can continue on by foot after the sign.

20. Arkansas Boondocking Free Campsites – Lookout Tower Road

Address
Siloam Springs, Arkansas
GPS: 36.143034, -94.414938
Elevation: 1211′

Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)

Dispersed campsite with a fire ring just off lookout tower rd. Its got a decent sized clearing with a small canyon nearby. There’s room enough for a few tension needed.

21. Arkansas Boondocking Spots – McIlroy Madison County WMA – Site 3

Address
County Road 291
Huntsville, Arkansas
GPS: 36.208303, -93.699116
Elevation: 1319′

Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife

This is a free dispersed campsite. No reservations. First come, first served.

22. Arkansas Boondocking Locations – McIlroy Madison County WMA

Address
Huntsville, Arkansas
GPS: 36.230606, -93.685944
Elevation: 1588′

Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife Service (Official)

McIlroy Madison County WMA is open Year Round. There are 16-29 campsites at this location.

23. Arkansas Boondocking Free Campsites – Cracker Barrel Old Country Store

Address
525 Skyline Dr.
Conway, Arkansas
GPS: 35.11003, -92.43203
Elevation: 354′

Management: Private Business

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store Has designated spots for RVs and plenty of parking space. Well illuminated. There was another RV staying while we were staying there.

24. Arkansas Boondocking Spots – Cypress Creek

Address
1951 County Road 70
Houston, Arkansas
GPS: 35.068707, -92.717167
Elevation: 289′

Management: Public – Corp of Engineers

Cypress Creek is open Mar-Oct. The maximum RV length at Cypress Creek is 40 feet.

25. Arkansas Boondocking Locations – Roundhouse Bluff

Address
Cotter, Arkansas
GPS: 36.26357, -92.53661
Elevation: 404′

Management: Public – County Park (Unofficial)

Parking lot with a few picnic tables and flat ground on top of bluff. Good for a tent, hammock or sleeping in the bed of the truck.

26. Arkansas Boondocking Free Campsites – Dairingdaves

Address
155 cr 677
Mountain Home, Arkansas
GPS: 36.283619, -92.341887
Elevation: 794′

Management: Private – My home (Unofficial)

The road in is Gravel and .5 mile miles from a paved road. Dairingdaves is open Just about any time. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 15 feet. You may stay 2 or so nights at Dairingdaves.

27. Arkansas Boondocking Spots – Kerley Point Park

Address
Kerley Point Cove
Elizabeth, Arkansas
GPS: 36.306201, -92.156879
Elevation: 558′

Management: Public – Corp of Engineers

For a more rustic camping experience, Norfork Lake offers four primitive camping areas. A permit for camping at these areas is required and is available from the Mountain Home Project Office.

28. Arkansas Boondocking Locations – Boggy Point

Address
Elizabeth, Arkansas
GPS: 36.31861, -92.132206
Elevation: 581′

Management: Public – Corp of Engineers (Official)

There are 1-5 campsites at this location.

29. Arkansas Boondocking Free Campsites – Calamity Beach

Address
County Road 24
Clarkridge, Arkansas
GPS: 36.476605, -92.258537
Elevation: 564′

Management: Public – Corp of Engineers

This free campsite is located within the Corp of Engineers Southwestern Division’s Little Rock District. The camping area is near Norfork Lake.


23 Northeast Arkansas Boondocking Locations

Jump directly to the 29 Northwest Arkansas Boondocking Locations
Jump directly to the 41 South West Arkansas Boondocking Locations
Jump directly to the 1 South East Arkansas Boondocking Locations

Northeast Arkansas does not receive nearly as much attention as other parts of the state. Many people in Northeast Arkansas have the misconception that there is nothing to do in the area and that they must travel elsewhere in order to have a good time. If you are from the Northeastern Area of the state, you are already aware of how beautiful your region is. There is a lot to see and do here for visitors from other countries!

1. Arkansas Boondocking Locations – Walmart North Little Rock

Address
North Little Rock, Arkansas
GPS: 34.78822, -92.21476
Elevation: 276′

Management: Private – Retail Store (Official)

Big beautiful clean store with level parking lot. 24 hour security. Store closes at midnight and reopens at 7am. Auto section was very helpful and tested our batteries for us.

2. Arkansas Boondocking Free Campsites – Camping World, Little Rock, AR

Address
9801 Diamond Drive
North Little Rock, Arkansas
GPS: 34.784054, -92.13958
Elevation: 243′

Management: Parking Lot – Retail Store (Unofficial)

This is a free dispersed campsite. First come -> first camped. No reservations are accepted.

3. Arkansas Boondocking Spots – Mike Freeze Wattensaw WMA

Address
Hazen, Arkansas
GPS: 34.838466, -91.513576
Elevation: 207′

Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife Service (Official)

Akansas Game and Fish Commission. (With Federal Aid)

4. Arkansas Boondocking Locations – Sheffield Nelson Dagmar WMA – Camp 5

Address
Unnamed Road
Brinkley, Arkansas
GPS: 34.872201, -91.321933
Elevation: 171′

Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife Service (Official)

This is a free dispersed campsite. This campsite does not use a reservation system. First come, first served. This location is at low elevation. During designated hunting seasons, a permit for that type of hunt is required for everyone entering the land even if you are not hunting. It is not free.

5. Arkansas Boondocking Free Campsites – Road Ranger Travel Center

Address
2202 N Main St
Brinkley, Arkansas
GPS: 34.91184, -91.1921
Elevation: 203′

Management: Public – Truck \ travel center (Official)

The road in is Paved. Newer Road Ranger immediately off highway. I called before I stopped and confirmed they allow overnight parking. There were several vans, campers, and cars there the night I stopped

6. Arkansas Boondocking Locations – Arkansas Rest Stop

Address
Forrest City, Arkansas
GPS: 34.993477, -90.878984
Elevation: 194′

Management: Public – Rest Area (Official)

The road in is Paved. Arkansas rest stop is open year round. The maximum RV length at Arkansas rest stop is unlimited. You may stay overnight at Arkansas rest stop.

7. Arkansas Boondocking Free Campsites – Cracker Barrel

Address
1600 N 6th St
West Memphis, Arkansas
GPS: 35.164621, -90.177631
Elevation: 217′

Management: Private – Cracker barrel (Official)

The road in is Paved. Cracker barrel is open whole year. There are 1-5 campsites at this location.

8. Arkansas Boondocking Spots – Lake Desarc

Address
Griffithville, Arkansas
GPS: 35.031157, -91.522278
Elevation: 190′

Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife Service

Little turn off with fishing. No campfires. Dispersed camping. Right off the highway so there is traffic noise occasionally. Nice lake for fishing

9. Arkansas Boondocking Locations – Henry Gray Hurricane Lake WMA

Address
Bald Knob, Arkansas
GPS: 35.230897, -91.482722
Elevation: 207′

Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife Service (Official)

Henry Gray Hurricane Lake WMA is open year round. You may stay 14 days at Henry Gray Hurricane Lake WMA.

10. Arkansas Boondocking Free Campsites – Salado Rest Area

Address
Batesville, Arkansas
GPS: 35.61398, -91.60661
Elevation: 299′

Management: Public – Rest Area

Rest area just south of Batesville, AR on 167. Has bathrooms with running water, picnic tables and grills. The spots with picnic tables and grills have camping spots for free.

11. Arkansas Boondocking Spots – Earl Buss Bayou DeView WMA (Tent Camping)

Address
5045 State Highway 956
Weiner, Arkansas
GPS: 35.589829, -90.959144
Elevation: 236′

Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife Service (Official)

Primitive camping areas are provided on each of the management area’s three tracts. Except for graveled parking areas, there are no other improvements to camping facilities.

12. Arkansas Boondocking Locations – Snowden Campsite

Address
Trumann, Arkansas
GPS: 35.66208, -90.47027
Elevation: 220′

Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife Service (Official)

One campsite near a river and bottom lands. I stayed here on a monday night in mid-November. The day and night temps where in the 30’s. I saw three other people. I imagine it will be more busy just about any other time of the year. There was a bit of trash. You must drive about 1mi on a single lane road atop a levee to get here.

13. Arkansas Boondocking Free Campsites – Big Lake WMA

Address
North County Road 303
Manila, Arkansas
GPS: 35.86476, -90.09968
Elevation: 236′

Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife Service (Official)

Historically, there has been little interest in overnight camping on Big Lake, but camping is permitted around Mallard Lake Where there is adequate space, and at access areas on the east and west sides of the area.

14. Arkansas Boondocking Spots – Overflow Camping Area

Address
Strawberry, Arkansas
GPS: 35.9722, -91.23788
Elevation: 266′

Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife Service (Official)

Shirey Bay Rainey Brake WMA. Camping is permitted in designated areas only. Many primitive campsites are on both sides of the area. Mosquitoes and biting flies are a major nuisance to campers during warm weather.

15. Arkansas Boondocking Locations – Coffey Access Camping Area

Address
Strawberry, Arkansas
GPS: 35.96995, -91.19219
Elevation: 240′

Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife Service (Official)

Shirey Bay Rainey Brake WMA

16. Arkansas Boondocking Free Campsites – Scattercreek

Address
Paragould, Arkansas
GPS: 36.156088, -90.549177
Elevation: 423′

Management: Public – Bureau of Land Management: (Official)

Just outside of Oak Grove Heights, AR turn off to your left on first major paved road. Watch for Brown road signs. First is the shooting range second is the campsite. Down a long gravel road. Primitive camping. About 4-5 sites in the woods.

17. Arkansas Boondocking Spots – Greene Road Dispersed Camping

Address
Greene Roade
Peach Orchard, Arkansas
GPS: 36.2528, -90.77801
Elevation: 269′

Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife Service (Official)

Located within the Dave Donaldson Black River WMA. Everyone 16 and older must have a free WMA General Use Permit to hunt, fish or camp on this WMA. There is also a pay camping area to the east. Although there is little interest in overnight camping on Black River, camping is permitted in designated campsites.

18. Arkansas Boondocking Locations – Harold Alexander Camping Area Camp

Address
Hardy, Arkansas
GPS: 36.2597, -91.4093
Elevation: 328′

Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife Service (Official)

The WMA has 5 primitive camping areas scattered in the area. This is one of them. Theses areas are maintained by the commission and camping is only allowed in these areas. Each camping area has 10 – 15 sites.

19. Arkansas Boondocking Free Campsites – LB Access Camping Area

Address
Spring River Access
Hardy, Arkansas
GPS: 36.2536, -91.40856
Elevation: 328′

Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife Service (Official)

There are 6-15 campsites at this location.

20. Arkansas Boondocking Spots – Harold Alexander Camping Area #2 – HQ Camp

Address
Williford, Arkansas
GPS: 36.23835, -91.43343
Elevation: 607′

Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife Service (Official)

There are 8-17 campsites at this location. One of five RV camping areas in the Harold E. Alexander Spring River WMA. It is located near middle of the WMA by the headquarters and a archery range.

21. Arkansas Boondocking Locations – Camping Area #1 – North Camp

Address
Camp Road
Hardy, Arkansas
GPS: 36.26512, -91.45506
Elevation: 676′

Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife Service (Official)

There are 6-15 campsites at this location.

22. Arkansas Boondocking Free Campsites – Harold Alexander Camping Area #4 – South Camp

Address
South Camp road
Hardy, Arkansas
GPS: 36.18849, -91.47767
Elevation: 771′

Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife Service (Official)

Harold E. Alexander Spring River WMA. One of 5 primitive camping areas scattered in the wildlife management area. Theses areas are maintained by the commission and camping is only allowed in these areas.

23. Arkansas Boondocking Spots – Wal-Mart

Address
Ash Flat, Arkansas
GPS: 36.239687, -91.595567
Elevation: 604′

Management: Private – Retail Store (Official)

The road in is Paved. The maximum RV length at Wal-Mart is unlimited.


41 South West Arkansas Boondocking Locations

Jump directly to the 29 Northwest Arkansas Boondocking Locations
Jump directly to the 23 Northeast Arkansas Boondocking Locations
Jump directly to the 1 South East Arkansas Boondocking Locations

Southwest Arkansas is brimming with opportunities for exploration! A variety of immaculate lakes, the Ouachita National Forest, natural hot springs, spas, scenic byways, horse racing, and even the opportunity to diamond prospect are all available in this area. Mount Ida, known as the “quartz crystal capital of the world,” is also located here. Come have some fun in Southwest Arkansas.

1. Arkansas Boondocking Locations – Hatfield Landing Camping Area

Address
CR 163
Hope, Arkansas
GPS: 33.565472, -93.702927
Elevation: 253′

Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife Service (Official)

Free camping in the Dr. Lester Sitzes III Bois D’Arc WMA. RVs are welcome. Boat slip nearby. No other facilities. Excellent fishing and bird-watching opportunities.

2. Arkansas Boondocking Free Campsites – Finger Point Landing Camping Area

Address
CR 163
Hope, Arkansas
GPS: 33.561241, -93.700691
Elevation: 261′

Management
Public – Fish and Wildlife Service (Official)

Free camping in the Dr. Lester Sitzes III Bois D’Arc WMA. RVs are welcome. Boat slip nearby. No other facilities. Excellent fishing and bird-watching opportunities.

3. Arkansas Boondocking Spots – Spillway Landing Camping Area

Address
Hope, Arkansas
GPS: 33.543598, -93.700699
Elevation: 262′

Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife Service (Official)

The road in is Paved. This area can be seen on google street view. From Hope, take Ark Hwy. 29 south about 6 miles, take Ark. Hwy. 355 west toward Springhill and follow into the area.

4. Arkansas Boondocking Locations – Teague Lake Primitive

Address
186 Bilbray Road
Taylor, Arkansas
GPS: 33.018773, -93.521487
Elevation: 200′

Management: Public – Corp of Engineers

This free campsite is located within the Corp of Engineers Mississippi Valley Division’s Vicksburg District.

5. Arkansas Boondocking Free Campsites – Alex Smith County Park – Miller County Arkansas

 

Address
16731 HWY 237
Genoa, Arkansas
GPS: 33.233808, -94.010508
Elevation: 246′

Management: Public – County Park (Official)

Located at 16731 HWY 237 Doddridge, Arkansas in Miller County, AR Free campsites, all without water or electric. However there is a nice public restroom. Beware, no swimming, there are alligators in the water.

6. Arkansas Boondocking Spots – Crabtree Landing @ Sulphur River WMA

Address
CR 211
Fouke, Arkansas
GPS: 33.2136, -93.936096
Elevation: 214′

Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife Service (Official)

Camping in designated areas only. There are two such areas in this WMA. The area consists of one of the last remaining large tracts of bottomland hardwood habitat along the Red River Valley.

7. Arkansas Boondocking Locations – Lower Mound @ Sulphur River WMA

Address
CR 109
Doddridge, Arkansas
GPS: 33.1675, -93.938393
Elevation: 215′

Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife Service (Official)

Lower Mound @ Sulphur River WMA is open Year-round.

8. Arkansas Boondocking Free Campsites – Bruckner AR

Address
Stamps, Arkansas
GPS: 33.363039, -93.46791
Elevation: 289′

Management: Public – Rest Area (Unofficial)

The maximum RV length at Bruckner AR is unlimited. Pull through rest area. Stayed one night. No signs prohibiting.

9. Arkansas Boondocking Spots – Tate’s Bluff

Address
Ouachita Rd 86
Sparkman, Arkansas
GPS: 33.805397, -92.894897
Elevation: 133′

Management: Public – beside bridge (Unofficial)

The road in is Dirt and 1/4 miles from a paved road. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 25 feet.

10. Arkansas Boondocking Locations – Poison Springs State Forest

Address
Chidester, Arkansas
GPS: 33.685968, -93.126361
Elevation: 285′

Management: Public – State Forest (Official)

The road in is Dirt and 2 miles from a paved road. Poison Springs State Forest is open All year. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited. You may stay 14 Days at Poison Springs State Forest.

11. Arkansas Boondocking Free Campsites – Rock Creek Lake Greeson

Address
Daisy, Arkansas
GPS: 34.207718, -93.760368
Elevation: 563′

Management: Public – State Forest (Official)

The road in is Gravel and 6.20 miles from a paved road. Rock Creek Lake Greeson is open year round. There are 16-29 campsites at this location. You may stay 14 at Rock Creek Lake Greeson.

12. Arkansas Boondocking Spots – Lenox Marcus

Address
Walnut Drive
Bismarck, Arkansas
GPS: 34.267159, -93.217239
Elevation: 410′

Management: Public – Corps of Engineers (Official)

Lenox Marcus is open Year round. 3 miles south of Lambert off Hwy. 84 Facilities: 200 acres of remote camping. Flush toilets, water, boat ramp, 30 picnic sites. (Open year-round)

13. Arkansas Boondocking Locations – Pilot Truck Stop

Address
170 Valley St
Caddo Valley, Arkansas
GPS: 34.185841, -93.070976
Elevation: 220′

Management: Private – Truck Stop

14. Arkansas Boondocking Free Campsites – Route 70 Rest Area

Address
Hot Springs, Arkansas
GPS: 34.53627, -92.89751
Elevation: 686′

Management: Public – Rest Area (Unofficial)

This was a quiet rest area. There was one other camper that left early in the morning. The rest area was shaded with nice clean bathrooms.

15. Arkansas Boondocking Spots – Walmart Supercenter

Address
Lake Hamilton, Arkansas
GPS: 34.491293, -93.089353
Elevation: 600′

Management: Private – Retail Store (Official)

Overnight parking allowed. One night only. Park in the lot where the semis park.

16. Arkansas Boondocking Locations – Cedar Fourche

 

Address
Cedar Fourche Point
Jessieville, Arkansas
GPS: 34.662646, -93.2836
Elevation: 584′

Management: Public – Corp of Engineers

Cedar Fourche is open all year.

17. Arkansas Boondocking Free Campsites – Buckville

Address
Buckville Road
Jessieville, Arkansas
GPS: 34.612959, -93.342171
Elevation: 610′

Management: Public – Corp of Engineers

Buckville is open all year. The maximum RV length at Buckville is 20 feet.

18. Arkansas Boondocking Spots – Big Fir

Address
Mt. Ida, Arkansas
GPS: 34.605873, -93.413841
Elevation: 617′

Management: Public – Corps of Engineers (Official)

Big Fir is open Year Round. You may stay 14 Days at Big Fir.

19. Arkansas Boondocking Locations – Avant

Address
Camp Story Road
Jessieville, Arkansas
GPS: 34.636602, -93.383119
Elevation: 591′

Management: Public – Corp of Engineers

Avant is open all year.

20. Arkansas Boondocking Free Campsites – Irons Fork

Address
Ironsfork Point
Jessieville, Arkansas
GPS: 34.686321, -93.372695
Elevation: 587′

Management: Public – Corp of Engineers

This free campsite is located within the Corp of Engineers Mississippi Valley Division’s Vicksburg District. The camping area is near Lake Ouachita.

21. Arkansas Boondocking Spots – Crystal Recreation Area

Address
Norman, Arkansas
GPS: 34.482399, -93.638001
Elevation: 1273′

Management: Public – Forest Service (USDA) (Official)

The road in is Gravel and 3 miles from a paved road. Crystal Recreation Area is open Year Round. There are 6-15 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is Small RVs & Short Trailers. You may stay 14 Nights at Crystal Recreation Area.

22. Arkansas Boondocking Locations – Ice Blue Swimming Hole

Address
Story, Arkansas
GPS: 34.75662, -93.4565
Elevation: 774′

Management: Public – National Forest

The road in is Paved. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 15 feet.

23. Arkansas Boondocking Free Campsites – Washita

Address
42 Mathew Hill
Story, Arkansas
GPS: 34.649702, -93.531217
Elevation: 600′

Management: Public – Corp of Engineers

Washita is open all year. This was one of my favorite free camping sites I’ve discovered! After backpacking on the Ouachita Trail, my partner and I were thrilled to find this site.

24. Arkansas Boondocking Spots – Rocky Shoals Float Camp

Address
Mount Ida, Arkansas
GPS: 34.674999, -93.689003
Elevation: 815′

Management: Public – Forest Service (USDA) (Official)

The road in is Paved. Rocky Shoals Float Camp is open Year Round. There are 6-15 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is Small – See Description. You may stay 14 Nights at Rocky Shoals Float Camp.

25. Arkansas Boondocking Locations – Shirley Creek Float Camp

Address
Oden, Arkansas
GPS: 34.615009, -93.825897
Elevation: 815′

Management: Public – Forest Service (USDA) (Official)

The road in is Gravel and 1/2 miles from a paved road. Shirley Creek Float Camp is open Year Round. There are 6-15 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is Small – See Description. You may stay 14 Nights at Shirley Creek Float Camp.

26. Arkansas Boondocking Free Campsites – Walmart Supercenter #67

Address
600 US-71 N
Mena, Arkansas
GPS: 34.587396, -94.2262

Management: Public – State Forest (Official)

Parked by garden center, train went by every couple hours and laid on horn every time. Otherwise nice mostly level parking lot on this side of the building.

27. Arkansas Boondocking Spots – Lake Wilhelmena

Address
Polk County Road 125
Mena, Arkansas
GPS: 34.599, -94.357

Management: Public – State Park (Official)

Great fishing Lake, no hookups, lots of trees… Lake Wilhelmina (located in Polk County) is an Arkansas Game and Fish Commission lake approximately 200 surface acres in size, constructed in 1958.The lake has a reputation for excellent bluegill and redear fishing.

28. Arkansas Boondocking Locations – Upper Buffalo Creek Deer Camp

Address
Waldron, Arkansas
GPS: 34.814169, -94.165494
Elevation: 1161′

Management: Public – Forest Service

Turn west on Upper Buffalo Creek Rd. at Needmore off Highway 71 and follow it back several miles. You’ll pass through some private properties and then it opens up into forest service land.

29. Arkansas Boondocking Free Campsites – Fourche Mountain Trail

Address
Boles, Arkansas
GPS: 34.717807, -93.991038
Elevation: 1037′

Management: Public – Forest Service (Unofficial)

The road in is Gravel and 2 miles from a paved road. Fourche Mountain Trail is open year round. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 25 feet. You may stay 14 days at Fourche Mountain Trail.

30. Arkansas Boondocking Spots – Elm Creek Rest Stop

Address
Elm Park, Arkansas
GPS: 35.0272, -94.12066
Elevation: 548′

Management: Public – Rest Area (Official)

A great reststop on the 71 just past town flush toilets, vending machines and water hookup with picnic tables. Overnight parking allowed. This is a free stop.

31. Arkansas Boondocking Locations – Jack Creek

Address
Booneville, Arkansas
GPS: 35.034, -93.847
Elevation: 610′

Management: Public – Forest Service (USDA) (Official)

The road in is Gravel and 2 miles from a paved road. Jack Creek is open Early May – Early August. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is Small – See Description. You may stay 14 Nights at Jack Creek.

32. Arkansas Boondocking Free Campsites – Hise Hill

Address
Booneville, Arkansas
GPS: 35.083489, -93.773262
Elevation: 453′

Management: Public – Corps of Engineers (Official)

Hise Hill is open Year Round. You may stay 14 Days at Hise Hill.

33. Arkansas Boondocking Spots – Ashley Creek

Address
Booneville, Arkansas
GPS: 35.107422, -93.709229
Elevation: 460′

Management: Public – Corps of Engineers (Official)

Ashley Creek is located on Blue Mountain Lake approximately two miles south of the town of Blue Mountain. The park provides boat launching, fishing, picnicking, and sightseeing.

34. Arkansas Boondocking Locations – Lick Creek

Address
Waveland, Arkansas
GPS: 35.092148, -93.687378
Elevation: 427′

Management: Public – Corps of Engineers (Official)

Lick Creek is open Year Round. You may stay 14 Days at Lick Creek.

35. Arkansas Boondocking Free Campsites – Fourche Mountain Recreation Area

Address
Rover, Arkansas
GPS: 34.895136, -93.392865
Elevation: 1112′

Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)

The road in is Gravel and .1 miles from a paved road. There are 1-5 campsites at this location.

36. Arkansas Boondocking Spots – FR849 Long Caney Riverside Campsite

Address
Perryville, Arkansas
GPS: 34.92353, -93.0517
Elevation: 344′

Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)

The road in is 4×4 and 10 miles from a paved road. FR849 Long Caney Riverside Campsite is open year around. There are 1-5 campsites at this location. You may stay no max at FR849 Long Caney Riverside Campsite.

37. Arkansas Boondocking Locations – Flatside Pinnacle

Address
Perryville, Arkansas
GPS: 34.875383, -92.903849
Elevation: 1230′

Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)

The road in is Gravel and 6 miles from a paved road. Flatside Pinnacle is open All year. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 15 feet. You may stay 14 days at Flatside Pinnacle.

38. Arkansas Boondocking Free Campsites – Cypress Creek

Address
1951 County Road 70
Houston, Arkansas
GPS: 35.068707, -92.717167
Elevation: 289′

Management: Public – Corp of Engineers

Cypress Creek is open Mar-Oct. The maximum RV length at Cypress Creek is 40 feet.

39. Arkansas Boondocking Spots – Cracker Barrel Old Country Store

Address
525 Skyline Dr.
Conway, Arkansas
GPS: 35.11003, -92.43203
Elevation: 354′

Management: Public – Cracker Barrel Old Country Store (Unofficial)

40. Arkansas Boondocking Locations – Cane Creek

Address
Cane Creek Recreation Road
Scranton, Arkansas
GPS: 35.388375, -93.502838
Elevation: 344′

Management: Public – Corp of Engineers

Cane Creek is open Mar-Oct. This free campsite is located within the Corp of Engineers Southwestern Division’s Little Rock District. The camping area is near Dardanelle Lake.

41. Arkansas Boondocking Free Campsites – River Ridge

Address
Cecil, Arkansas
GPS: 35.443775, -94.071089
Elevation: 390′

Management: Public – Corp of Engineers

River Ridge is open Seasonal.


1 South East Arkansas Boondocking Locations

Jump directly to the 29 Northwest Arkansas Boondocking Locations
Jump directly to the 23 Northeast Arkansas Boondocking Locations
Jump directly to the 41 South West Arkansas Boondocking Locations

Southeast Arkansas is all about the Arkansas Delta. You’ll find blues in Helena, some great wildlife and the Arkansas Post Museum.

Wildlife and Nature

The delta region of Arkansas is rich with fish, birds, alligator, swamps and lakes. If you want a good look at an alligator, try Arkansas Post in Gillette. Arkansas Post was the first and most significant European establishment in Arkansas. The Delta Rivers Nature Center is also a good place to spot wildlife. You can try the Louisiana State Purchase State Park in Brinkley, which features a pleasant boardwalk through an Arkansas swamp. Alligator have been spotted there. I doubt you’ll see one.

As someone that grew up in this part of Arkansas, DON’T overlook it because of its fewer boondocking locations. The Arkansas delta is home to the the White River and Arkansas River who both then empty into the Mighty Mississippi. The movie “Mud” was filmed in this delta region and my cousin was actually an extra.

1. Arkansas Boondocking Free Campsites – Lake Village Arkansas Welcome Center

Address
Jennie, Arkansas
GPS: 33.300359, -91.278524
Elevation: 125′

Management: Public – Rest Area (Official)



Boondocking In Arkansas

For many people, Arkansas Boondocking entails a variety of activities. It could entail setting up a tent or connecting a camper to a power source in a campground. Another option is to stay in an isolated cabin at the heart of a state park. Throughout our family’s history, outdoors has come to represent something quite special. We’ve embraced the popular motto “Camp is where you park it” to describe our rooftop tent. When it comes to dispersed camping, it is exactly that.

It is possible to go Arkansas Boondocking in any part of the state and be in the middle of nowhere, away from the cities, away from any amenities, and even further away from other fellow humans. This is known as boondocking at its best. In the words of the Forest Service, “dispersed camping is a term that refers to camping anywhere in a national forest that is not a designated campground.”

For us, Boondocking in Arkansas is the best way to get away from it all and spend quality time together as a family. It allows us to be present in the moment while also visiting places we might not otherwise have the opportunity to visit. It’s a way to take pleasure in nature and all that it has to offer.

Camping in this manner has enabled our family to camp in locations we would have never imagined possible… for example, at nearly 10,000 feet in elevation, next to a rolling small stream and an old abandoned mine, among other places… Alternatively, you could be in the center of the Ouachita Mountains, enveloped by the aroma of pines and surrounded by incredible opportunities for hammock relaxation… in the center of a National Grassland with seemingly every star in the sky beaming down above it, or in the middle of the desert.


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