Forty miles from campgrounds near Arkadelphia, Big Fir Primitive Camping sits on a wooded peninsula jutting into DeGray Lake. The Army Corps of Engineers created this free campground as part of a New Deal project that flooded several valleys, forming over 200 islands and 40,000 acres of waterways. Roughly ten sites spread across the peninsula, with about six offering direct water access and boat launching capabilities.
The campground operates on a first-come basis, with sites filling quickly during holidays and weekends. Gaetan S. notes "all spots have direct water access for boats" and describes the area as having "pebble beaches near two other islands." Half the sites accommodate small campers or vans, while others work better for car camping. Two sites require high-clearance vehicles due to tree roots blocking access.
Each site includes a fire ring, grill, and concrete picnic table. Pit toilets provide the only facilities - no running water or electricity reaches the campground. Campers must bring their own water and plan for limited resupply options, as the nearest stores sit 30 minutes away down mostly gravel roads. Cell service works well for most carriers, with several reviewers confirming reliable Verizon coverage.
The lake offers fishing opportunities and swimming access, though summer visitors should prepare for bugs at dusk. Bri experienced significant chigger issues despite bug spray, while other campers report no problems. Rangers patrol regularly and collect names and license plates for safety tracking. Nearby alternatives include Brushy Creek Campground and Amity Recreation Area for those wanting developed facilities.
Description
Big Fir Campground is a primitive campground on the northwest end of Lake Ouachita. This small campground is one of the most out of the way and secluded campgrounds on the lake. The 50 or so campsites here are all non-electric and primitive. There is a boat ramp and restrooms within the park. If you are looking for an out of the way place to camp, you have found it with the Big Fir Campground. This is a beautiful location on the lake with plenty of trees and good lake views. There is fishing available from the bank.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Private CampgroundBig Fir Primitive Camping is located in Arkansas
Directions
Located Off of Hwy 188 on the west side of the lake. Look for the sign.
Coordinates
34.113380387474734 N
93.32272712219793 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 4 users
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 4 users
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
- Big Rig Friendly
FREE established camping
Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Big Fir Primitive Camping needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 54 min from Hot Springs, AR
- 1 hr 6 min from Texarkana, TX
- 1 hr 10 min from Little Rock, AR
- 2 hrs 37 min from Fort Smith, AR




























