RVshare.com

Ouachita National Forest Guide

Ouachita National Forest is one of the oldest and largest national forests in the South. The forest sits primarily in the Ouachita Mountains of Arkansas and Oklahoma and offers a spectacular scenic mountain view of underdeveloped oak trees at an elevation of over 2,500 feet. It's centrally located near Arkansas' highly popular cultural and historical sites and offers hunting, isolated camping, scenic driving, and a spectacular sightseeing adventure. The 1.6 million-acre forest also contains rivers, streams, and lakes, providing fishing, boating, and swimming opportunities. Whether you're a local or are traveling from another state, you'll enjoy a visit to this forest and will enjoy mild to warm temperatures throughout your stay. 

Where to Camp

Camping in Ouachita National Forest

A variety of services can be found at developed campgrounds nearby that include full-service RV hookups. With an RV, you can experience the solitude of the forest and still come home to a warm, comfortable bed. Whether you're an RV pro or haven't yet had the chance to experience the RV lifestyle, it's wonderful to have your own living space. When you rent an RV from RVshare, you'll have campers, fifth-wheels, big rigs, and more to select from to suit your family's budget and size. 

RV Rentals Near Ouachita National Forest

Shape Hiking Trails

Ouachita National Forest Hiking Trails

Things to Do

Activities in Ouachita National Forest

Whether you're looking to relax in complete solitude or take advantage of the amazing recreational activities at Ouachita National Forest, you'll have plenty of nature to view. Bring your off-highway vehicles, and head to the 600-acre Renegade Ranch OHV trail. Horse owners love the popular Billy Creek Trail, Fourche Mountain Trail, and Sugar Creek Equestrian. These trails are also great for hiking and mountain biking and are rated as moderate to difficult. They are also ideal for bird watching, geocaching, and observing wildlife.

map-marker-alt-regular How to Get There

How to get to Ouachita National Forest

Address: 100 Reserve Street, Hot Springs, AR 71902

Fee: Entry fee $0

The Ouachita National Forest offers multiple days of nature-viewing opportunities. With over 30 trails, you can easily find one with very little traffic to seclude yourself within the forest. Whether you go camping in the deepest part of the woods or at a nearby full-service campground, an RV is the perfect way to experience the Ouachita National Forest.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions About Ouachita National Forest

What is the best time to visit Ouachita National Forest?

The best time to visit the Ouachita National Forest is during the fall months. The summer crowds will be gone, but the weather is still mild enough for visitors to hike and enjoy the forest.

Does Ouachita National Forest offer free camping sites?

Yes, Ouachita National Forest offers free camping sites. Dispersed camping is allowed throughout the forest and does not cost. Campers need to leave the area better than they found it and pack out all trash at the end of their trip.

Is there a fee to get into Ouachita National Forest?

No, there is no fee to get into Ouachita National Forest. There may be fees for certain recreational activities like camping in developed campgrounds or for using certain day-use areas.

Is there a limit to how long you can camp in Ouachita National Forest?

Yes, there is a limit to how long you can camp in Ouachita National Forest. Dispersed camping is allowed for up to 30 days in one spot. After 30 days, campers must move at least 5 road miles before setting up camp again. They cannot return to the same campsite within one calendar year.

What type of wildlife lives in Ouachita National Forest?

Wildlife in Ouachita National Forest includes fox, coyotes, roadrunners, deer, turkeys, and squirrels. There is a variety of other small animals, raptors, birds, reptiles, and other creatures who make the forest their home as well.