Harris Brake, managed by Arkansas's State Fish and Wildlife division, provides free dispersed camping along a small lake about 30 minutes from Interstate 40. The compact area functions more like a developed park than typical dispersed camping, with mowed grass and established sites featuring picnic tables and fire rings overlooking the water.
Campers consistently note the lake views from designated camping spots, though the water quality receives mixed feedback. Elizabeth T. found the "water wasn't so nice" compared to cleaner Ozark waters, while others appreciate the fishing opportunities and boat launch access. The maintained grounds include scattered picnic tables and fire pits, with previous visitors sometimes leaving gathered firewood behind.
Road access accommodates large RVs without backing up, as multiple reviewers confirm successful visits with trailers ranging from 19 to 25 feet. Gravel roads become difficult to navigate after dark, so arriving with daylight proves essential. Cell service works reliably across carriers, and the proximity to two major roads means occasional traffic noise and curious visitors driving through to explore.
Persistent dog barking from nearby houses creates the most common complaint among campers, with several reviews mentioning all-night disturbances from neighborhood pets. Wildlife sounds include geese in early morning hours and occasional gray fox calls. Despite these noise issues, the location offers full cell coverage and easy access for those seeking camping near Perryville without fees.
The area requires a hunting or fishing license for overnight stays, though enforcement appears inconsistent. Campers report finding litter around some sites, including broken glass and discarded items, requiring careful site selection upon arrival.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Dispersed CampingHarris Brake Lake is located in Arkansas
Coordinates
34.98296004 N
92.76216027 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 1 user
- Verizon5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 17 usersLast on 4/2/26
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 8 usersLast on 4/2/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 1 user
- Verizon5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 17 usersLast on 4/2/26
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 8 usersLast on 4/2/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Dispersed
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
- Big Rig Friendly
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Harris Brake Lake needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 43 min from Little Rock, AR
- 1 hr 2 min from Hot Springs, AR
- 1 hr 49 min from Fort Smith, AR
- 2 hrs 14 min from Fayetteville, AR



















