Bayou Bluff Campground

Open — Open year-round for dispersed camping and day use with no fees. The upper loop is closed to camping. Visitors must pack out all trash.

About

Bayou Bluff Campground is a designated dispersed camping and day-use area operated by the U.S. Forest Service, located just outside of Hector, Arkansas near the Illinois Bayou. In October 2021, the site transitioned to a Point of Interest, eliminating camping fees and opening access year-round. While the upper loop has been permanently closed to camping, visitors can still enjoy the vault toilet, a large pavilion, three shelters, and a small pavilion, all available on a first-come, first-served basis. The area is known for its picturesque bluffs and breathtaking scenery along the Illinois Bayou, a popular destination for paddlers and anglers. A 1-mile interpretive loop trail offers visitors the chance to explore the natural beauty and geology of the area. The site operates under Leave No Trace principles with a pack-it-in, pack-it-out trash policy. Active partner groups and volunteers help maintain the existing amenities. Located 6 miles north of Hector on Arkansas Highway 27, Bayou Bluff provides access to fishing, swimming, hiking, wildlife viewing, and scenic vistas. The site serves as the uppermost put-in point for paddlers making the 18-mile journey downriver to Lake Dardanelle. No potable water is available on-site, so visitors should come prepared with their own water supply.

Directions

From Hector, take Arkansas 27 north for 6 miles.

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