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Best Dispersed Camping near Greeson Lake

35 Reviews

Several dispersed camping options exist within driving distance of Greeson Lake, Arkansas, primarily in Missouri and surrounding Arkansas wilderness areas. Hercules Glades Wilderness Area offers free primitive camping with no facilities—no water, toilets, or trash service. The area features multiple trailheads with primitive sites, including Blair Ridge Road Dispersed and Hercules Glades Watch Tower, where campers can find established fire rings. A review noted, "There are two fire rings along Blair Ridge Road with full bars for Verizon."

Sam's Throne Recreation Area in Mount Judea, Arkansas provides free dispersed camping with vault toilets but no water. Sites are separated by trees for privacy and include fire rings. The Buffalo National River area offers Woolum Dispersed Area, a primitive riverside camping option with vault toilets. Gene Rush Wildlife Management Area requires permits for camping, available online from Arkansas Game and Fish Commission for $5. As one camper explained, "You can camp in the 2 designated campsites—must purchase camping license from Game and Fishing Commission." Most of these areas have limited to no cell service, so campers should prepare accordingly.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Greeson Lake (10)

    1. Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area

    4 Reviews
    Bradleyville, MO
    8 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."

    2. Hercules Glades (Watch Tower)

    4 Reviews
    Bradleyville, MO
    9 miles

    "Free national forest primitive campground. Walk-in tent sites, but was able to find a site at the far end to park my van at the site. It was at the Long Creek Trailhead."

    "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."

    3. Blair Ridge Rd Dispersed

    1 Review
    Greeson Lake, AR
    7 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)."

    4. Hercules Lookout Tower Trail

    Be the first to review!
    Bradleyville, MO
    9 miles

    5. Sam's Throne Recreation Area

    17 Reviews
    Mount Judea, AR
    48 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."

    6. Woolum Dispersed Area — Buffalo National River

    7 Reviews
    St. Joe, AR
    41 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."

    7. Gene Rush Wildlife Management Area

    4 Reviews
    Vendor, AR
    41 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."

    8. Matney Knob disbursed

    1 Review
    Norfork, AR
    39 miles

    9. Noblett Lake Dispersed Camping

    1 Review
    Willow Springs, MO
    49 miles

    "If you go down the road to what used to actually be the Noblett Lake campground (it is now a picnic area, no overnight camping allowed). They do have vault toilets available but they're gross."

    10. Sycamore Loop Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Willow Springs, MO
    48 miles
    Website
    +1 (573) 364-4621
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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Greeson Lake

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Greeson Lake

35 Reviews of 10 Greeson Lake Campgrounds

  • Fred S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 28, 2025

    Hercules Glades (Watch Tower)

    Nice campground with access to trails

    Camped here in mid-October 2025. Free national forest primitive campground. Walk-in tent sites, but was able to find a site at the far end to park my van at the site. It was at the Long Creek Trailhead. It was mid-week, so it was quiet and peaceful here. Only one other camper here during our visit who car-camped in a parking lot. Sites included a metal fire ring and table; some with tent pads. Hammock camping is possible depending on the site. My site had a grass and dirt surface. The vault toilet was clean and equiped with tp. No potable water. Hiking into the Hecules Glades Wilderness Area was wonderful. The trails into the wilderness area appear to be open to hikers, backpackers, hunters and equestrian riding. Hitching rails are available at the campground. Access to the campground on the forest road was good; a 2wd passenger car should be able to make it here. Overall, a nice, peaceful overnight stay.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Miranda M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 7, 2018

    Sam's Throne Recreation Area

    Beautiful location

    Very beautiful place with vault toilets only and no running water. 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. Near the entrance to the facility right off of the highway there is a large gravel parking lot. This facility has day-use for rock climbing. Motorcycle friendly but there is a sign stating no OHV's. No trash cans, pack-in/pack-out facility. Donations are accepted but it is a FREE campsite.

  • J
    May. 2, 2022

    Woolum Dispersed Area — Buffalo National River

    One of the best remote campgrounds in AR

    I have visited this spot multiple times and camped right on the riverbank. Beautiful scenery year-round.  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. Ended up camping out at bakers ford just a few miles away.

  • Ramie W.
    Sep. 1, 2018

    Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area

    Hercules Glades

    I did the Coy Bald hike and loved it. Most of the trail was fairly easy to navigate, however the areas of open meadows were a little more difficult to find where it picks back up. The falls are a great rock feature when it’s dry and beautiful when they’re flowing.

Guide to Greeson Lake

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Greeson Lake in Arkansas, where nature lovers can enjoy serene landscapes and a sense of adventure. With various options available, campers can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Greeson Lake in Arkansas

  • Many areas allow for free camping, such as Blair Ridge Rd Dispersed, which features fire rings and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for those seeking solitude.
  • Be prepared for a rustic experience; facilities are limited, so bring your own water and supplies when visiting places like Hercules Glades Wilderness Area.
  • Always check local regulations and fire restrictions before setting up camp, especially in areas like Hercules Glades (Watch Tower), where conditions can change frequently.

Scenic hiking trails for dispersed campers

  • The Coy Bald Trail offers a stunning four-mile hike with breathtaking viewpoints, making it a must-visit for those who enjoy combining hiking with their camping experience.
  • Campers can explore the rugged terrain and beautiful shut-ins along the trail, which provide opportunities for swimming and relaxation in nature.
  • Keep an eye out for wildlife, including snakes during warmer months, as you navigate the trails in the Hercules Glades Wilderness Area.

Dispersed campers should check out Hercules Glades

  • The Hercules Glades (Watch Tower) is a great spot for those looking for a quiet night under the stars, with easy access to hiking trails and a tranquil environment.
  • This area is known for its secluded camping spots, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural beauty without the distractions of modern life.
  • With limited amenities, it's essential to come prepared, but the stunning scenery and peaceful surroundings make it well worth the effort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Greeson Lake?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Greeson Lake is Hercules-Glades Wilderness Area with a 4.5-star rating from 4 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Greeson Lake?

TheDyrt.com has all 10 dispersed camping locations near Greeson Lake, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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