Dispersed camping near Holly Grove, Arkansas requires proper permits and awareness of local regulations. Wildlife management areas in this region experience frequent flooding during spring and occasional hunting restrictions based on seasonal schedules. Located within the flat Mississippi Alluvial Plain region, camping areas typically sit at elevations below 300 feet and experience high humidity levels throughout summer months.
What to do
Shooting range access: Visitors to Henry Gray Hurricane Lake Wildlife Management Area can use the shooting range located on the road before reaching the campsite. One camper noted, "There is a shooting range on the road before you get to the site."
Fishing opportunities: Several wildlife management areas offer fishing access, with varying catch rates depending on seasonal water levels. Anglers should check current conditions before planning their trip, as water depth can change rapidly in this low-lying region.
Wildlife observation: The wetland ecosystems support diverse bird species and wildlife viewing opportunities. Morning hours typically provide the best wildlife sightings, though mosquito protection is essential. According to one camper at Beagle Club Road Pull-Off, the area can get "a bit buggy but otherwise a quiet spot to get some sleep."
What campers like
Concrete camping pads: The concrete pads at some sites provide stable surfaces for setting up camp regardless of ground conditions. A camper at Hurricane Lake WMA stated, "The site itself isn't bad. It is very well shaded with 8-10 concrete pads. There are a few concrete benches and a water spigot."
Water access: Several sites provide drinking water, which reduces the amount campers need to carry in. A visitor to Beagle Club Road Pull-Off mentioned, "Easy to find and has a water spigot."
Boat trailer parking: Some areas accommodate vehicles with trailers. Hurricane Lake WMA features "a huge parking lot next to it for trucks with boats/trailers to park," according to visitor reports, making it convenient for those planning water activities.
What you should know
Permit requirements: Arkansas public lands have strict permit requirements for camping. One visitor to Hurricane Lake WMA warned, "Apparently this is true of all Arkansas public property despite app saying otherwise." Always check current requirements before arrival.
Road conditions: Access roads can become impassable after rain. A camper at Henry Gray Hurricane Lake Wildlife Management Area reported, "It had rained and the road in was near a foot deep flowing water. Not a problem on our motorcycle but a car may have issues with water coming in."
Limited amenities: Many sites offer minimal facilities. North Webb Lake Camp has been described as a "Literal rest stop on the side of highway," while Beagle Club Road is characterized as "Basically just two relatively small parking lots in the woods."
Tips for camping with families
Mosquito preparation: The low-lying wetland areas around Holly Grove create ideal mosquito breeding conditions. A camper at Hurricane Lake noted, "I'm here in October and there are still quite a few mosquitoes. I imagine in the warmer months they would be unbearable."
Cell coverage considerations: Communication options may be limited in these rural areas. According to one visitor, "the cell signal is pretty spotty," which families should consider when planning activities that might require coordination or emergency contact.
Short-term stays only: Several dispersed camping locations are better suited for brief overnight stops rather than extended stays. A camper at South Webb Lake Camp indicated the site would "only be good for a super quick overnight."
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: While some areas accommodate larger vehicles, access can be challenging. Roads leading to many sites are unpaved and may narrow considerably, requiring careful navigation.
Size limitations: Smaller sites have restricted parking areas not suitable for larger rigs. One camper described Beagle Club Road Pull-Off as having "two relatively small parking lots in the woods," suggesting limited space for larger vehicles.
Camping restrictions clarity: RV campers should verify tent camping allowances. A visitor to North Webb Lake Camp noted confusion about this, saying it "Says no tent camping, but it seemed like an RV was planning on staying," highlighting the importance of confirming site-specific rules.
