Dispersed camping near Perryville, Arkansas includes several sites within the Ouachita National Forest at elevations ranging from 400 to 1,200 feet. The terrain features mixed pine and hardwood forests with several seasonal creeks flowing through camping areas. Winter temperatures typically range from 30-50°F, while summer camping often means dealing with high humidity and temperatures frequently exceeding 90°F.
What to do
Creek exploration: Multiple dispersed sites along Forest Rd 179 Creekside Dispersed offer direct water access. "The creek is nice for a summertime dip when its running high. The site is mostly shaded; may be difficult to get a Starlink connection," notes one visitor. This area connects to the North Fork of the Saline River where fishing is possible.
Hiking: The Ouachita National Recreation Trail runs near several dispersed sites, providing day hiking options. At Dispersed FR132 Ouachita National Forest, campers can access the trail just steps from their site. One reviewer shared: "There are a few forest service roads back here so pay attention to the signs. Roads are steep further back but well covered with gravel and very few large rocks."
Wildlife watching: Dawn and dusk offer prime wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the forest. The forested areas host deer, wild turkey, and various bird species. One camper at Harris Brake Lake noted, "The fireflies here are amazing! Nobody else was camping here which made for some quiet nights."
What campers like
Solitude: Many dispersed sites in the Ouachita National Forest provide peaceful retreats from crowds. A camper at Brown Creek Rd/FR805 Dispersed shared: "Peaceful at night. The only sounds came from the birds, the breeze and the creek." Most forest roads see minimal traffic, especially on weekdays.
Stargazing: The minimal light pollution in areas away from Perryville creates excellent night sky viewing. Harris Brake Lake campers frequently mention this benefit, with one noting, "Really nice large site with a creek that flows into the North Fork of the Saline River was behind the site. Lots of trees surrounding the site with an open sky above for star gazing."
Scenic views: Several sites along Forest Road 132 provide vistas across the Ouachita Mountains. At Forest Service RD 132 Ouachita National Forest, visitors enjoy "fantastic unobstructed view of the hills to the south. Some shade in the summer. Fantastic view during the winter season."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many forest roads deteriorate during and after heavy rains. Approach with caution, especially in passenger vehicles. At Brown Creek Cascade Dispersed Campsite, a camper mentioned: "Didn't have to drive too far down the road found a spot on the left. Nice stone camp fire circle, good flat spot for my tent, which is a four person."
Firewood availability: Some sites have limited deadfall for campfires. A camper at Brown Creek Cascade noted: "Hard to find decent wood to burn, had to walk a bit to find." Consider bringing your own firewood or tools for processing what's available.
Site selection timing: The most accessible dispersed sites fill quickly on weekends during peak seasons (spring and fall). Arriving mid-week or early on weekend mornings increases your chances of securing preferred locations. Several reviews mention being the only campers at sites on weekdays.
Cell coverage: Service varies widely by location and carrier. A visitor to Forest Rd 179 reported "No T-Mobile or AT&T cell service" while another site on FR132 had "T-Mobile cell service" available.
Tips for camping with families
Level site selection: Choose locations with adequate flat space for family tents. At FR132/152 T-Junction Dispersed, Ouachita NF, a reviewer noted it's a "Large dispersed campsite... Clean site with one rock fire ring. Can fit a couple of vehicles... This is a level dirt site with some embedded rocks jutting up."
Water access: Creekside sites provide both recreational opportunities and water for non-drinking purposes. Several sites along Forest Road 179 feature creek access, though water levels fluctuate seasonally.
Wildlife awareness: Teach children about local wildlife, including identifying poison ivy and ticks. Multiple campers mention ticks as an issue, with one noting at Harris Brake Lake: "There is a lot of ticks here i pulled 7 off of me and my dog in one night."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller rigs only. At Ouachitas FR179 Dispersed Site, a visitor noted: "Site appears to be large enough for 2 rigs no larger than a truck camper. Multiple tents can be set up here. Did not have a problem parking our camper van on a level spot."
Leveling challenges: Many sites require significant leveling. A camper at Forest Service RD 132 mentioned: "Not level; some leveling is required. Dirt surface with exposed embedded rock."
Turn-around limitations: Scout potential sites before committing, as backing up can be difficult on narrow forest roads. Consider walking to inspect sites before driving in, especially in larger vehicles.
