Brock Creek Dam Campground

- Arkansas 72080

For those in Arkansas who cherish the call of the wild and the thrill of outdoor exploration, Brock Creek Dam Campground offers an exceptional and authentic wilderness experience. Located near the tranquil Brock Creek Lake and within the vast expanse of the Ozark National Forest, this campground is a true gem for adventurers and nature lovers alike. It's a place where the sounds of the city fade into the rustle of leaves and the gentle lapping of water, providing a much-needed respite from everyday life.

Brock Creek Dam Campground is celebrated for its primitive, "pack-it-in/pack-it-out" camping environment, appealing to those who embrace simplicity and a deep connection with the natural world. This means you'll find a raw, untouched beauty here, perfect for truly disconnecting. It's a fantastic spot for both seasoned campers seeking solitude and families looking to introduce their children to the wonders of primitive outdoor living in our beautiful state.

What truly sets Brock Creek Dam Campground apart is its strategic location within the Brock Creek Lake Recreation Area, offering immediate access to a wealth of recreational opportunities. The campground serves as a prime base for exploring the diverse Brock Creek Multi-Use Trail System, a haven for off-road vehicle enthusiasts, hikers, and horseback riders. Imagine spending your days traversing miles of scenic trails, then returning to a peaceful campsite by the lake for an evening of stargazing. This combination of thrilling adventure and serene relaxation makes Brock Creek Dam Campground a standout choice for Arkansans looking to make the most of their leisure time.

Brock Creek Dam Campground is situated in a prime location within the Ozark National Forest, near Jerusalem, Arkansas, specifically addressable as Arkansas 72080, USA. Its placement offers both a sense of remote wilderness and relative accessibility for residents across Arkansas. Getting to the campground typically involves navigating well-maintained gravel forest roads, adding an element of adventure to your journey.

For those traveling from Jerusalem, a common route involves taking Forest Service Road 1305 (a gravel road) north for approximately 5 miles. From there, you'll turn right (east) onto Forest Service Road 1309 (also gravel) for about 0.1 mile, then make a left onto Forest Service Road 1331 (gravel) and continue for another mile. This route leads directly to the campground, ensuring that while you're heading into a truly natural setting, the path there is manageable for most vehicles. However, it's always wise to check current road conditions, especially during or after inclement weather, as forest roads can sometimes be affected. The drive itself offers glimpses of the stunning Ozark scenery, building anticipation for the outdoor experiences that await.

• Primitive Campsites: Brock Creek Dam Campground offers six primitive campsites. These sites are designed for a rustic experience, allowing campers to truly immerse themselves in nature without modern amenities.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, providing a convenient and comfortable spot for meals and gathering.
• Fire Rings: Fire rings are available at each site, perfect for campfires, cooking, and enjoying the warmth and ambiance of an evening outdoors. Campers should always check for any fire restrictions or burn bans in effect before lighting a fire.
• Lantern Posts: For added convenience, lantern posts are provided at each campsite, allowing for easy illumination of your area.
• Vault Toilets: A vault toilet is located at the campground for general use, offering a basic restroom facility.
• No Water Available: It is crucial for visitors to note that potable water is NOT available at this site. Campers must bring their own supply of drinking water for the duration of their stay.
• No Electrical Hookups: The campground does not provide electrical hookups. This reinforces its primitive nature and encourages a true "off-the-grid" experience.
• No Trash Services: Brock Creek Dam Campground operates on a strict "pack-it-in/pack-it-out" policy. There are no trash disposal services provided, so visitors are responsible for carrying out all their waste. This helps maintain the pristine condition of the forest.
• First-Come, First-Served: Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning no reservations are accepted. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak seasons, to secure a spot.

• Brock Creek Lake Access: The campground is strategically located near the 35-acre Brock Creek Lake. This provides excellent opportunities for fishing (with the lake periodically stocked with bass, channel catfish, and bluegill), swimming, and non-motorized boating. A primitive boat ramp is available for easy lake access.
• Brock Creek Multi-Use Trail System: A major draw is the direct access to over 42 miles of multi-use trails, including the renowned Brock Creek Trail System. These trails cater to dirt bikers, Off-Highway Vehicles (OHVs), mountain bikers, and horseback riders, with routes suitable for all skill levels.
• Diverse Trail Terrain: The trails meander through beautiful oak/hickory forests and occasional pine areas, traversing small streams and shifting from valley bottoms to high ridge tops, offering varied and engaging scenery.
• Remote and Private Setting: As a primitive campground, it offers a truly remote and private outdoor experience, allowing visitors to escape the crowds and enjoy the tranquility of the Ozark National Forest.
• Wildlife Viewing and Scenery: The rich natural environment provides ample opportunities for viewing local wildlife, diverse plant life, and enjoying breathtaking scenic vistas throughout the area.
• Hiking and Backpacking: While known for its motorized trails, the area also offers fantastic opportunities for traditional hiking and backpacking, allowing visitors to explore the forest on foot.
• Year-Round Access: The campground and trail system are generally open year-round, offering different experiences with each changing season, from lush summer greenery to vibrant fall foliage.
• No Excessive Wake Restriction on Lake: For boaters, the lack of excessive wake restrictions on Brock Creek Lake allows for a more varied and enjoyable experience on the water.

Brock Creek Dam Campground, managed by the Ozark-St. Francis National Forest Service, is unique in that it is a non-fee site. This means there are no charges for camping or accessing the basic facilities. This inherent affordability serves as a continuous "special offer" for anyone looking to experience the beauty of the Arkansas outdoors without incurring significant costs. Given its primitive nature and management by a federal agency, structured promotions or discount programs are not typically offered. The primary benefit and "promotion" is the free access to such a beautiful and activity-rich natural area. Visitors should always be aware that while the campground itself is free, certain activities within the broader national forest, or specific permits for certain types of uses, might have associated fees, though this campground is primarily geared towards free, dispersed-style camping.

For up-to-date information regarding Brock Creek Dam Campground, including current conditions, any temporary closures, or fire restrictions, it's best to contact the relevant Ranger District within the Ozark-St. Francis National Forests. While there isn't a direct phone number for the campground itself due to its primitive and unstaffed nature, the managing district office can provide the most accurate details.

Address: Arkansas 72080, USA (within the Ozark National Forest near Jerusalem)

Closest Ranger District Contact: Big Piney Ranger District

Phone: (479) 284-3150 or (870) 446-5122

Brock Creek Dam Campground is an outstanding option for Arkansans seeking an authentic and accessible outdoor experience. Its location in Jerusalem, nestled within the expansive Ozark National Forest, means that a genuine wilderness escape is just a drive away for many across the state. For those who appreciate the tranquility of nature and the simplicity of primitive camping, this campground delivers. The "pack-it-in/pack-it-out" ethos resonates with environmentally conscious locals, fostering a sense of responsibility for preserving Arkansas's natural beauty.

The true allure for Arkansans, however, lies in the sheer breadth of activities available. If you're an off-road enthusiast, the extensive Brock Creek Multi-Use Trail System is a major draw, offering countless miles of adventure for ATVs, UTVs, dirt bikes, and even horseback riding. For anglers, Brock Creek Lake promises rewarding fishing opportunities, while hikers can explore diverse terrains and scenic vistas. Families can enjoy quality time reconnecting with nature, whether it's around a campfire under a canopy of stars or exploring the forest trails.

Moreover, the non-fee nature of Brock Creek Dam Campground makes it an incredibly appealing and budget-friendly option for a local getaway. It’s a testament to the abundant natural resources that Arkansas offers to its residents, providing a chance to de-stress, have fun, and create lasting memories without breaking the bank. It truly embodies the spirit of outdoor adventure that defines our state, making it a perfect spot for any Arkansan looking to embrace the wild.

Brock Creek Dam Campground

Arkansas 72080, USA