Barkshed Campground

Arkansas, often called "The Natural State," lives up to its name with its breathtaking Ozark Mountains, pristine rivers, and vast expanses of national forest. For those who seek a genuine immersion into nature, away from the hustle and bustle of more developed areas, primitive campgrounds offer an unparalleled experience. Barkshed Campground, nestled within the Ozark-St. Francis National Forests near Fifty-Six, Arkansas, is precisely such a place – a quiet, unspoiled haven for campers who appreciate simplicity and the raw beauty of the wilderness.

Barkshed Campground offers a back-to-basics approach to camping, focusing on the fundamental joys of outdoor living. It's a place where the sounds of the North Sylamore Creek replace traffic noise, and the starlit sky provides the only light show needed. This campground is ideal for those who are self-sufficient and value the peace and quiet that comes with a more rustic setting. While it provides essential amenities, its charm lies in its untouched natural surroundings and the opportunities it presents for genuine outdoor adventure.

Once known as the "Barkshed Forest Camp," this area has a history as a valued recreational spot, maintaining its appeal through its natural beauty and serene atmosphere. It's a testament to Arkansas's commitment to preserving its wild spaces for public enjoyment. For local Arkansans, Barkshed Campground provides an accessible yet profound escape, offering a chance to reconnect with the land, enjoy outdoor activities, and create lasting memories without straying too far from home.

Barkshed Campground is located at 3150 Tie Ridge Rd, Fifty-Six, AR 72533, USA, within the beautiful Ozark-St. Francis National Forests. This puts it in a prime position for experiencing the natural splendor of the Ozarks. The campground is situated near the clear waters of North Sylamore Creek, a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts.

Access to Barkshed Campground requires navigating through typical Ozarks hills and hollows. From Mountain View, take Arkansas 14 west for approximately 17.3 miles. Then, turn right (north) onto Forest Service Road 1115 (a gravel road) and continue for 2.1 miles. Finally, turn right onto Forest Service Road 1112 and proceed for 1.4 miles to reach the campground. While the drive to the recreation area is described as steep and narrow, it is generally accessible. However, it's important to note that the campground is "not recommended for large trailers or recreational vehicles (RVs)" due to these road conditions and the primitive nature of the sites. It is more suited for tents and smaller camping setups.

Despite its secluded feel, Barkshed Campground offers reasonable proximity to essential services. The closest town for supplies is Mountain View, approximately 10 miles away, known for its vibrant folk music scene and Ozark Folk Center State Park. Blanchard Springs Caverns and Recreation Area, another significant regional attraction with caves, trails, and amenities, is also relatively close, offering additional exploration opportunities. The campground's location at the "end" of the North Sylamore Hiking Trail provides immediate access to extensive trail systems, making it a perfect base for hikers looking to explore the Ozark Highlands Trail or the shorter segments along the creek.

• Individual Campsites: Barkshed Campground offers several individual campsites (reported as 5-17 sites depending on source, but generally a smaller, intimate number) designed for primitive camping. Each site typically includes a picnic table and a fire ring, essential for outdoor living.

• Vault Toilets: Clean vault toilets are available on-site, providing basic restroom facilities for campers. It's important to note that flush toilets or showers are not provided, reinforcing the primitive nature of the camp.

• Picnic Pavilion: There is a picnic pavilion located at the top of a hill, which historically served as a gathering spot and offers a communal area for day use or group events.

• Water Access (Limited/None): While Barkshed is located near the clear North Sylamore Creek, drinking water may not be available directly at the campground. Campers are strongly advised to bring their own potable water or be prepared to filter/purify water from the creek, understanding that this is at their own risk.

• Waste Disposal (Pack It Out): Trash disposal services are limited or nonexistent. Campers are expected to follow Leave No Trace principles and pack out all of their trash to maintain the pristine environment.

• First-Come, First-Served Basis: Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning no reservations are accepted. Visitors must physically arrive to claim a site.

• Affordable Fees: Individual campsites are available for a nominal fee of $5 per day, and group campsites are $5 per car per day, making it a highly affordable option for camping.

• Open Year-Round: Barkshed Campground is open year-round, allowing for camping across all seasons, though conditions and creek levels will vary.

• Primitive and Quiet Setting: Barkshed is renowned for its primitive nature and quiet atmosphere. This is a major draw for those seeking solitude and a genuine wilderness experience, away from crowded and noisy campgrounds.

• Direct Access to North Sylamore Creek: The campground is located directly on the clear, beautiful North Sylamore Creek. This offers immediate opportunities for fishing (especially trout), wading, and swimming (at your own risk), making it a prime spot for water activities.

• Hiking Trail Hub: Barkshed serves as the "end" of the North Sylamore Hiking Trail, and connections to the Ozark Highlands Trail Extension can be found here. This makes it an ideal base for extensive hiking adventures through the Ozark-St. Francis National Forests, with trails winding through picturesque scenery, bluffs, and diverse plant life.

• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The surrounding area is abundant with wildlife, including white-tailed deer, squirrels, and more elusive bears and turkeys. It's an excellent spot for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers.

• Scenic Beauty: The drive to Barkshed itself is scenic, characteristic of the Ozarks with hills and hollows. The campground area features picturesque rock bluffs, clear streams, and a variety of plants and wildflowers, particularly in spring and early summer.

• Historic Significance: As the old "Barkshed Forest Camp," it has a historical connection to the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) era, adding a layer of heritage to the natural beauty.

• Affordable Wilderness Access: With a modest daily fee, Barkshed Campground offers an incredibly affordable way to access and enjoy the vast Ozark-St. Francis National Forests and its many recreational opportunities.

Address: 3150 Tie Ridge Rd, Fifty-Six, AR 72533, USA

As Barkshed Campground is managed by the USDA Forest Service within the Ozark-St. Francis National Forests, direct contact is typically through the managing ranger district.

For inquiries, visitors can contact:

Sylamore Ranger District Office:

Phone: (870) 269-3228

Alternatively, general inquiries can be directed to the Blanchard Springs Visitor Information Center at (870) 757-2211, as they also oversee recreational areas in the vicinity. It is always advisable to check the official USDA Forest Service website for the Ozark-St. Francis National Forests for the most current information regarding conditions, fees, and alerts before planning your visit.

For Arkansans, Barkshed Campground offers an invaluable local resource for an authentic, back-to-nature camping experience. Its location in Fifty-Six, deep within the Ozark-St. Francis National Forests, means it’s a relatively accessible wilderness escape for many residents, allowing for spontaneous weekend trips or longer, immersive stays without requiring extensive travel across state lines. This convenience directly translates to more time enjoying the beautiful outdoors and less time on the road.

The primitive nature of Barkshed is a significant draw for locals who cherish simplicity and a true connection with their state's natural heritage. It provides an affordable gateway to the vast recreational opportunities of the Ozarks. Imagine being able to cast a line into the clear waters of North Sylamore Creek just steps from your campsite, or immediately access extensive hiking trails like the North Sylamore Trail. These direct interactions with nature are what many Arkansans seek when escaping the daily grind.

While the campground is not recommended for large RVs and lacks extensive modern amenities, this is precisely its appeal for a certain type of camper – those who value quiet, unspoiled surroundings and are self-sufficient. It fosters a sense of peaceful solitude that is increasingly rare. For locals looking to escape, unwind, and fully embrace the "Natural State" experience on a budget, Barkshed Campground stands as an ideal choice, offering a true taste of Arkansas's wild beauty right in their backyard.