Camping at Gunner Pool Campground

Overview of Gunner Pool Campground

Gunner Pool Campground is located in the beautiful Ozark-St. Francis National Forests in Arkansas. It is well-known among campers for its scenic beauty, including the Gunner Pool, a small lake created by a dam on Sylamore Creek. The Ozark-St. Francis National Forests offer a vast range of recreational activities in a serene and natural setting.

Campground Details

Facilities and Amenities:

• Primitive camping spots (no electrical hookups).
• Picnic tables and fire rings at each site.
• Vault toilets are available; however, there are no shower facilities.
• A day-use picnicking area.
• Drinking water is typically accessible from hand pumps.
• A boat ramp is available for non-motorized boats or those with electric trolling motors.
• Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash.

Activities

Outdoor Recreation:

• Fishing in Gunner Pool and Sylamore Creek (state fishing regulations apply).
• Hiking trails, including the nearby Sylamore Trail, provide miles of beautiful scenery.
• Swimming in the designated areas (swim at your own risk as there are no lifeguards).
• Canoeing, kayaking, and other water-based activities on the creek.

Access and Location

The location is somewhat remote, which makes for a peaceful retreat but requires preparation:

• GPS coordinates: Usually provided on the USDA Forest Service website or other mapping services.
• Access roads: May be narrow and winding, appropriate for cars and smaller RVs.
• Nearest town: Located not too far from Mountain View, Arkansas, where supplies and other amenities can be obtained.

Reservations and Fees

• Some sites might be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
• A nominal fee is charged per night for camping, which may be subject to change.
• Reservations, if available, can be made through the Recreation.gov website. It's recommended to check the current status before planning a trip, as policies and availability may vary by season and year.

Regulations and Safety

To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, campers should follow these guidelines:

• Fire Safety: Observe fire regulations and restrictions. Only use fire rings for campfires and make sure fires are completely extinguished before leaving.
• Wildlife: Properly store food and dispose of trash to avoid attracting bears and other wildlife.
• Weather Preparedness: Be aware of weather conditions and pack appropriately for changes in weather.
• Leave No Trace: Follow "Leave No Trace" principles to preserve the natural beauty of the area.

Points of Interest

Nearby attractions include:

• Blanchard Springs Caverns, a stunning cave system to explore.
• The Ozark Folk Center State Park, dedicated to preserving Ozark cultural heritage and traditional crafts.
• The White River, renowned for trout fishing.
• The town of Mountain View, known for its folk music and artisan crafts.

Contact Information

For the most updated information and any queries:

• Contact the local ranger district office in Mountain View, AR.
• Check the USDA Forest Service website for the Ozark-St Francis National Forests.

Please note that the facilities, fees, and regulations may change. Always check with the USDA Forest Service for the most current information before heading to the campground.