Dispersed camping near Casa, Arkansas centers around the Ouachita National Forest, where elevations range from 600 to 2,700 feet across the mountain range. The area experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F while winter temperatures can dip below freezing. Most primitive campsites sit atop rocky terrain with limited level ground, requiring careful site selection.
What to do
Hike to Brown Creek Cascade: A short 1/4-mile trail from the Brown Creek Cascade Dispersed Campsite leads to a scenic water feature. This hike includes a creek crossing, so prepare for wet feet. "The sound from the creek was soothing," notes one visitor who appreciated the natural soundtrack after a day of exploring.
Stargazing at night: Minimal light pollution makes this area excellent for astronomy enthusiasts, though campers should select sites with open canopy views. "I really enjoyed this site. I stopped on a weekday and I was the only one there. It was nice watching the sun set over the lake," reports a camper at Harris Brake Lake.
Access the Ouachita National Recreation Trail: Several primitive camping spots provide direct access to this long-distance trail. Near the FR132-Grindstone Rd Dispersed site, "The Flatside Wilderness Area is across FR132 from this dispersed site; easy access to the Ouachita Trail," making it convenient for section hikers.
What campers like
Mountain panoramas: The elevated position of many sites offers long-range views. At Forest Service RD 132, campers enjoy "fantastic unobstructed view of the hills to the south" and "comfortable and well-maintained" sites with amenities like "a fire pit, prepared firewood, and a nice stump to chop more on."
Privacy and solitude: Many sites see very little traffic, especially on weekdays. "We arrived late at night, and I'm glad we had our lightbar. It's dispersed camping, so no dumpster, no gray water dump. It does have a picnick table, though," explains a visitor to Harris Brake Lake.
Cost-free camping: All primitive camping in this area is free, allowing extended stays without permits. At Harris Brake Lake, "No amenities but it's quiet and pretty and free. The sunset was gorgeous. A little bit of a drive off of I40 but it's a fantastic spot."
What you should know
Weather preparedness: The region experiences rapid weather changes, particularly in spring and fall. During summer at Harris Brake Lake, one camper noted "absolutely beautiful place the fireflies here are amazing! Nobody else was camping here which made for some quiet nights. The locals fish and swim in the lake so light traffic."
Wildlife encounters: Ticks are prevalent during warm months. "There is a lot of ticks here I pulled 7 off of me and my dog in one night," reports a camper at Harris Brake Lake. Coyotes and foxes are also common, with some campers reporting "two gray foxes screeching ALL NIGHT LONG."
Cell service variability: Signal strength varies dramatically by location and carrier. At FR94 Dispersed Campsite, a camper reports "AT&T LTE service. Sporadic T-Mobile service," while other locations have no service at all.
Tips for camping with families
Prepare for trash concerns: Unfortunately, some sites suffer from litter problems. "This site is a wonderful place to camp because it is free. There was a ton of trash, including broken bottles and broken pans, near each site which was very unpleasant to see and camp near," notes a Harris Brake Lake visitor.
Scout for level tent spots: Many sites feature rocky ground challenging for tent sleeping. "If you are sleeping on the ground bring plenty of padding it is rocky and not very flat. If you are in a rooftop there are plenty of rocks to level up on," advises a Forest Service RD 132 camper.
Consider proximity to water: Sites near creeks or lakes offer natural entertainment for children. At Brown Creek Rd/FR805 Dispersed camping area, "A small creek is down the hill behind the site; the creek is dry during the dry season. A beautiful wall of trees is across the creek."
Tips from RVers
Road condition awareness: Forest roads deteriorate significantly after rains. For Forest Service RD 153, a visitor warns "We couldn't even get to the campsite in our AWD Subaru Outback. There are drainage pipes exposed on the road."
Smaller rigs recommended: Most sites accommodate compact setups better than large trailers. "We have a 25' travel trailer and didn't need to do any backing up to get in or out. Full cell signal with XFINITY mobile. 2 picnic tables and spots for fire overlooking lake. Ample places to park," reports a Harris Brake Lake camper.
Leveling challenges: Many sites require significant leveling due to uneven terrain. A Forest Service RD 132 reviewer states, "Not level; some leveling is required. Dirt surface with exposed embedded rock - may be uncomfortable for tent camping."
