Little River Canyon National Preserve - Backcountry (U.S. National Park Service)

Billy's Ford Campsite

Nonlicensed vehicles (ATV's) are no longer allowed on the Backcountry Roads. Click here for more information.

This area is located north of the canyon across Highway 35. This is the only area where camping is allowed. Camping is only allowed from February 1 until September 30. Each campsite has a picnic table, 10' x 20' tent pad, rock fire ring, trash can and outhouse. Billy's Ford, Hartline Ford, Slant Rock are the only sites where camping is allowed.

Slant Rock is located off Highway 35, on County Road 103. Turn into first driveway on left on County Road 103 (Check Station for Hunters). Follow Road 01, turn first left and follow downhill to the campsite.

Billy's Ford and Hartline Ford are located further into the Backcountry Area. From Highway 35, turn onto County Road 295. Turn Right onto Road 05, Billy's Ford is the first right (takes about 20 minutes driving on Backcountry Roads). Hartline Ford is just above Billy's Ford. You will cross several creek crossings to get to these sites. A four-wheel drive vehicle is recommended.

DeSoto State Park is located in the northern section of this area.

Horseback riders, licensed vehicles and hikers all share this area.

There are 23 miles of roads. The roads are narrow, have uneven surfaces and sharp turns. The surface of the road is dirt, gravel and chert. Several roads have creek crossings. Go slow and use caution while driving these roads. There are many blind turns and you never know when you will meet a horseback rider or another vehicle.

There are a variety of berries and nuts in this area. Visitors are welcome to collect up to a five gallon bucket per day for personal use only.

All vehicles must remain on numbered roads at all times. There are endangered species in this area. Driving off the numbered roads may kill the plants and destroy the habitat. Fines will be severe if any endangered species are harmed.

Mudding (purposely spinning in a muddied area) is not allowed. Crossing the river or creeks when the water level is high is unsafe. High water increases the chance that your vehicle will tip over or be carried downstream. If this happens, you could face severe penalties for damage to the natural resources.

Hunting is allowed during specified dates and times.

High Rock is a popular swimming area. Camping is not allowed at this area.

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