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Best Dispersed Camping near Harrison, AR

35 Reviews

Buffalo National River offers several dispersed camping options near Harrison, Arkansas. Woolum Dispersed Area provides primitive riverside campsites with vault toilets but no drinking water or hookups. The area features both grassy meadows and riverbank sites accessible via drive-in and walk-in routes. A recent review noted, "Right on the river with both a rock and sand beach currently. Fire rings. Only one other camper at the other end of the campground on memorial weekend."

Sam's Throne Recreation Area provides free dispersed camping with more privacy, located in Mount Judea. Sites are separated by trees and include fire rings and vault toilets but no water sources. The area connects to hiking trails with scenic bluff views and is popular with rock climbers. According to one visitor, "Limited amenities, but enough. The views are 100% worth it!" Gene Rush Wildlife Management Area requires a $5 camping permit from the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission and limits camping to two designated sites. The eastern site sits high on a bluff while the western site is in a valley.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Harrison, Arkansas (15)

    1. Sam's Throne Recreation Area

    16 Reviews
    Mount Judea, AR
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (870) 446-5122

    "There are surrounding trails that lead to some nice spots for a stunning sunset. These seem to be free established campgrounds, not dispersed."

    "There are a few bears in the region so I would hang my food just to be safe. There aren't any specific spots for RV's but there are a few cleared areas with room to park an RV or trailer."

    2. Gene Rush Wildlife Management Area

    4 Reviews
    Vendor, AR
    19 miles

    "100% of Wildlife Management Areas in the state of Arkansas require a Hunting license or WMA camping permit purchased though Arkansas Game and Fish."

    "Spoke with Arkansas Game and Fishing Commission Ranger. No despersal camping but you can camp in the 2 designated campsites. Well designated, my post is on the further east site from Carver."

    3. Woolum Dispersed Area — Buffalo National River

    7 Reviews
    St. Joe, AR
    23 miles
    Website

    "So many options to make your home away from home! Grassy meadows or river side oasis, you choose! This is definitely the place to go to enjoy magnificent scenery and not be distracted by technology."

    "I just tried to make a trip up there at the end of April (2022) and the final stretch of access road was blocked off due to erosion according to NPS. Not sure when main road will reopen."

    4. Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area

    4 Reviews
    Bradleyville, MO
    33 miles
    Website

    "This area is a wilderness area so camping is plentiful.  However in this particular are there is no organized campsite specifically.  "

    "Hercules Glades Wilderness Area is part of mark Twain National Forest. It's a bit off the beaten path, but worth it for a day hike or a bit of backpacking."

    5. Hercules Glades (Watch Tower)

    3 Reviews
    Bradleyville, MO
    33 miles

    "We got here on a pretty hilly/twisty road late at night, found a spot close to the trailhead and had a quiet, peaceful night sleep. We saw just one other camper with a trailer close to the inlet."

    "Nice camping spots at the trailhead for Hercules glades. It was a beautiful, quiet area."

    6. Blair Ridge Rd Dispersed

    1 Review
    Greeson Lake, AR
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (573) 364-4621

    "Tried to camp out before backpacking through Hercules Glade Wilderness but the trailheads were packed (weekend). There are two fire rings along this road. Both locations have full bars (Verizon)."

    7. Buffalo Creek Trail

    1 Review
    Pettigrew, AR
    34 miles

    "The final half mile of Madison/404 was too steep and rough to proceed. Cavern Mountain Rd 5 was good. Additionally, Google routed us a bunch of dirt roads to get here."

    8. Falling Water Creek

    1 Review
    Witts Springs, AR
    36 miles

    9. Sugar Camp Lookout Tower Dispersed Area

    2 Reviews
    Eagle Rock, MO
    45 miles

    "Completely surrounded by forest, so plenty of shade. Access road was a little rough, as in your typical dirt road, but posed 0 problems for our little economy car. I’ve had much worse for sure."

    "Mark Twain National Forest is always a great getaway. This location is tucked away from the main road and is easy to get to. Could easily get 4 rigs + in the sight."

    10. Pine Hollow 1045 Dispersed Camping

    1 Review
    Eagle Rock, MO
    44 miles

    "Excellent little campsite great for a couple tents at most we camped using a rooftop tent and it was a great spot. Very quite very clean unlike some other sites in the area."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Harrison, AR

11 Photos of 15 Harrison Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Harrison, AR

35 Reviews of 15 Harrison Campgrounds

  • Fred S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 6, 2025

    FR1802A, Meadows Knob Rd Dispersed

    Secluded, Light Usage, Dispersed Camping in the Ozarks

    Coordinates: 35.58695,-93.20723. Camped here Dec 29, 2024. Set well off of Meadows Knob Rd. Expect pinstriping along the access track to this secluded dispersed campsite. FR1802A toward the site has some erosion; low clearance vehicles may high center in one or two spots. The main forest road into this part of the Ozark National Forest is okay. The campsite is in open area, located in an old clear cut area. There is a partial view of the distant mountains. The site is a level, dirt surface. Not a large site; okay for one rig. Tent camping possible. No nearby mature trees for hammock camping. The site is overgrown with grass and weeds; a weed whacker is needed to clear the rock fire ring. There is a spot on the ground where a previous campfire was made. Good AT&T and T-Mobile 5G service. No shade; access to Starlink is possible. No hiking trails, although there is a 2-track for hiking that leads down into Graves Creek Canyon and some unnamed waterfalls. The hike along this trck is nice. This is not a pretty dispersed site, but it is well off of the main forest road; very private. Access to the site may be difficult for some vehicles. High clearance 4x4 vehicles should have no problems.

  • Crystal C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 1, 2020

    Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area

    Hike in and camp, or just hike for day use!!

    This area is a wilderness area so camping is plentiful.  However in this particular are there is no organized campsite specifically.  Instead there are several areas where you can with permissions hike in and stay.  

    My suggestion for camping along this area are to check with local restrictions, there are some that you will want to make sure you know first hand.   Sometimes fire restrictions do change and these can be found at the beginning of the trails on the kiosks.   Some areas also are not permitted for overnight parking so you want to check those out before venturing into the wilderness for a lengthy time.

    Check with rangers of the area to make sure you are not in a register only or permit only area for camping!!  Very important in this region.

    Bring everything and then plot your course.

    The 4 mile hike is amazing and has many beautiful view points however it is also quite treacherous in some areas.    This area is also one which you will find many snakes lurking during warmer months so beware!!!!   

    I always suggest on wilderness hikes to not hike alone or camp alone but this one I found to be more problematic with limited to no cell service for assistance should you encounter danger.   

    Be careful but have fun!!!

  • T
    Nov. 29, 2017

    Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area

    Nicely private, but not a lot of scenery

    Hercules Glades Wilderness Area is part of mark Twain National Forest. It's a bit off the beaten path, but worth it for a day hike or a bit of backpacking.

    Since it's wilderness area, you can camp just about anywhere with few restrictions. There are a few primitive sites at the trailhead, no water or toilets.

    A few hundred yards from the Coy Bald Trailhead there is a fork in the trail. Going left gets you to the falls and the majority of the camp sites with the shortest route, about three miles.

    The trail is pretty rough and rocky with moderate elevation changes. I'd rate it on the low side of moderate difficulty.

    About a mile in you'll cross the river for the first time. There are camp sites with fire rings on both sides of the river. This is a scenic area with bluffs on one side of the river, but forested, so no views to speak of.

    About three miles in, you'll cross the river the second time. There are a number of camping areas with fire rings along the river.

    Downstream a few hundred feet are the falls that most people go to see. Unfortunately for us, there wasn't enough water for them to be running. There was enough water to wade around in and soak the feet. It was quite nice!

    The area is pretty and quiet, we saw only a handful of people in the two days we were there. The only issue was the ticks, they were the worst I'd dealt with in some time.

    All in all, a nice hike and a nice bit if camping. I'd go back to see the falls again.

  • K
    Jul. 5, 2025

    Sugar Camp Lookout Tower Dispersed Area

    Acessable to all

    Pretty great spot! If you’re fortunate enough to be alone, this is a very large space, with a nice picnic table and a few fire pits. Completely surrounded by forest, so plenty of shade. Access road was a little rough, as in your typical dirt road, but posed 0 problems for our little economy car. I’ve had much worse for sure. The area is pretty secluded, with only a few cars driving through all day, so bear spray is absolutely necessary for peace of mind. Practice good bear prevention measures and you’re good to go for a free night stay, or several, happy camping!

  • b
    Aug. 14, 2021

    Ozark National Forest - Dispersed Camping

    Not a camp spot (private propery)

    This was not at all a campsite. Most of the forest is private property with house everywhere. This location in particular is no different. Go to Sam's throne to camp

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 27, 2018

    Hercules Glades (Watch Tower)

    Rustic with great hiking

    This is a good place for hiking/backpacking. There are several sites around the access road and miles of hiking trails. The only ammenities are some fire rings and 1 toilet. It's a beautiful area but fairly remote and immediate services. Again, good for backpacking/hiking.

  • ‘Chelle S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 4, 2024

    Sugar Camp Lookout Tower Dispersed Area

    Beautiful and Peaceful

    Mark Twain National Forest is always a great getaway. This location is tucked away from the main road and is easy to get to. Could easily get 4 rigs + in the sight. Established fire ring (be mindful of burn bans). Close to Roaring River and Table Rock lake.

  • Candace R.
    Sep. 28, 2021

    Woolum Dispersed Area — Buffalo National River

    Buggy but Beautiful

    So many options to make your home away from home! Grassy meadows or river side oasis, you choose! This is definitely the place to go to enjoy magnificent scenery and not be distracted by technology. Late September visit means the river is low, nights are cool and days are filled with sunshine. Bring the bug spray and sunscreen.

  • Summer R.
    Jun. 22, 2024

    Sam's Throne Recreation Area

    Title Required: Good. Quiet. Good and quiet.

    Only stayed one night but it was very quiet and peaceful. There are surrounding trails that lead to some nice spots for a stunning sunset. These seem to be free established campgrounds, not dispersed. No trash service but there are vault toilets and fire rings. Great sites either way. Happy to stay again.

Guide to Harrison

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Harrison, Arkansas, where nature lovers can immerse themselves in serene landscapes and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. With numerous options available, campers can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.

Scenic Riverfront Spots for Dispersed Campers

  • The Woolum Dispersed Area — Buffalo National River offers stunning views right on the riverbank, making it a favorite for those who appreciate beautiful scenery year-round.
  • Campers can enjoy the peacefulness of the area, with options for grassy meadows or riverside camping, perfect for those looking to escape technology and relax in nature.
  • Be prepared for a primitive experience, as this area has no drinking water or picnic tables, but it does allow campfires, enhancing the rustic camping experience.

Hiking and Exploration Opportunities While Free Camping Near Harrison

  • The Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area is ideal for those who love to hike, offering numerous trails with breathtaking views and the chance to camp almost anywhere.
  • This area is known for its diverse wildlife, so keep an eye out for snakes and other creatures while enjoying the natural beauty of the Ozarks.
  • With no organized campsites, campers can choose their own spots, but it's essential to check local restrictions and fire regulations before setting up.

Peaceful Retreats for Nature Lovers

  • The Sam's Throne Recreation Area provides a quiet and beautiful environment, perfect for those seeking solitude and stunning sunsets.
  • Campers can enjoy the surrounding trails that lead to scenic overlooks, making it a great spot for both relaxation and exploration.
  • With amenities like vault toilets and fire pits, this area strikes a balance between rustic camping and essential comforts, ensuring a pleasant stay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Harrison, AR?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Harrison, AR is Sam's Throne Recreation Area with a 4.5-star rating from 16 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Harrison, AR?

TheDyrt.com has all 15 dispersed camping locations near Harrison, AR, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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