Dispersed camping near McRae, Arkansas provides primitive options primarily in wildlife management areas across the central Arkansas region. Located in the Mississippi Alluvial Plain, these sites experience hot, humid summers with average temperatures reaching 90°F and mild winters rarely falling below freezing. Most camping areas stand on flat terrain with dense forest cover and require a valid Arkansas hunting or fishing license despite being marketed as free camping.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: At Camp Robinson Dispersed Site, visitors can observe diverse bird species around the partially drained lake. "The lake has been partially drained to allow work to be done on stumps... The birds and frogs sang all evening," reports Julie A., who camped there in May 2024.
Fishing access: Several primitive sites near McRae connect to local lakes and streams, though recent conditions affect accessibility. Ken H. noted at Camp Robinson: "Free camp in the trees by drained part of lake. Thank goodness there is a slight breeze. 90 degrees. Summer swampy area."
Road exploration: The region contains extensive back roads connecting various camping locations. When visiting North Webb Lake Camp, one camper observed, "Went to a lot of back roads to get here, some looked like small camping spots, but didn't stop, thinking it would lead to a larger group of spots."
What campers like
Isolation with convenience: Many campers appreciate the balance of seclusion without being completely remote. Rylie R. described Camp Robinson as a "Great spot to pitch a tent by lake Conway. Isolated but not too far out."
Reliable cell reception: Unlike many dispersed camping areas, several McRae locations maintain decent connectivity. "The road back to it is well maintained and we had good cell reception with AT&T and Spectrum," Julie A. mentioned about Camp Robinson.
Quick overnight options: For travelers passing through on I-40, these sites provide convenient stops. At Beagle Club Road Pull-Off, Rachel S. reported: "Spent just one night here. Easy to find and has a water spigot... One other person here. A bit buggy but otherwise a quiet spot to get some sleep!"
What you should know
Permit requirements: Arkansas regulations require permits for camping on public lands despite conflicting information online. At Henry Gray Hurricane Lake Wildlife Management Area, Steve R. warns: "This was a nice Campground BUT it does require a hunting/fishing permit and we were given a written warning. Apparently this is true of all Arkansas public property despite app saying otherwise."
Limited facilities: Expect extremely basic accommodations at most sites. Heidi H. described Beagle Club Road Pull-Off: "Not much too it. Basically just two relatively small parking lots in the woods, past some houses off the highway. Would only be good for a super quick over night."
Seasonal challenges: Summer heat and insects significantly impact camping comfort. Ken H. advised at Camp Robinson: "I definitely put on bug spray right away. 90 degrees. Summer swampy area. Picked up a med bag of trash; cans, bottles, and paper."
Tips for camping with families
Select sites with concrete pads: For better tent setup and cleaner camping conditions with children, seek locations with improved surfaces. Rachel S. notes about Beagle Club Road: "Easy to find and has a water spigot... otherwise a quiet spot to get some sleep!"
Plan for no facilities: No restrooms exist at these sites, requiring proper preparation for sanitation. "Super primitive" is how Heidi H. described these locations, emphasizing the need to bring all necessary supplies.
Consider noise issues: Some locations experience unpredictable nighttime disturbances. Mason G. reported at Camp Robinson Area 1: "I woke up at 11pm to someone driving in then 12:30am then at 1:30 a loud truck came in slinging rocks and a guy was screaming out the window. So I was packed up and was out by 2am."
Tips from RVers
Check road conditions before arrival: Access roads can flood after rainfall, requiring higher clearance vehicles. Steve R. 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 designated RV spots: Most dispersed sites near McRae accommodate tent camping better than RVs. Heidi H. observed at North Webb Lake Camp: "Says no tent camping, but it seemed like an RV was planning on staying."
Consider alternatives: True free camping near McRae is primarily designed for hunters and anglers rather than recreational camping, making commercial campgrounds potentially more suitable for RVs needing hookups or services.
