Within the Dardanelle Recreation Area, Shoal Bay provides Army Corps of Engineers camping along the shores of Lake Dardanelle. This established campground accommodates RVs up to 82 feet with electric and water hookups, though access roads can present challenges for some visitors.
The campground features paved, level sites with adequate spacing between neighbors. Don L. notes "paved level sites with water and electricity and clean bathrooms." Sites closest to the water access fishing and swimming opportunities directly from the shoreline. The forested setting provides some natural screening, though maintenance levels vary according to camper reports.
Boat-in access adds flexibility for water-focused visitors, while the drive-in option serves traditional RV and tent campers. Fire rings accommodate evening campfires, though some reviewers mention limited grills throughout the grounds. The dump station handles RV waste needs, and pets remain welcome throughout the facility.
Campers exploring camping destinations outside Clarksville will find this location works well for extended stays focused on lake activities. Nearby alternatives include Shoal Bay RV Park and Lonesome D Horse Camp RV Park for different camping styles. The $22-$75 nightly range reflects seasonal demand and site selection, making this a practical base for boaters and anglers prioritizing water access over premium amenities.
Description
Overview
Download a Shoal Bay park map HERE This shady campground sits on the scenic Shoal Bay arm of Lake Dardanelle, offering an excellent setting for boating, swimming and wildlife viewing.
Recreation
The lake, a popular spot for anglers, is brimming with white bass, largemouth bass, bream, crappie and large catfish. The Bridge Rock Trail winds along a rugged slope overlooking the narrows of Shoal Creek, offering excellent hiking opportunities. Dardanelle's Visitor Center is noteworthy for its "Renaissance of a River" theme. Interpretive exhibits express the progression of river valley from the time of early Native Americans to its present day.
Facilities
Shoal Bay offers 45 reservable campsites, most of which have electric hookups. Two large picnic shelters are also available. Amenities include a boat ramp, playground and hot showers.
Natural Features
Dardanelle Lake, sourced by the Arkansas River, spans 40,000 acres and boasts 315 miles of shoreline. The lake sits in the river valley between the Ozark and Ouachita National Forests.
Nearby Attractions
Bona Dea Trails and Sanctuary, with nearly 86 acres of wetlands and low woods, provide an ideal habitat for native wildlife. Visitors can explore the area on the 6 mile trail system.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundShoal Bay is located in Arkansas
Directions
From New Blaine, Arkansas, take State Route 197 north for 2 miles. Follow signs into campground.
Address
SHOAL BAY ROAD BOX 499
New blaine, AR 72859
Coordinates
35.31 N
93.4305556 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GGood Coverage
VerizonLTESome Coverage
AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GGood Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Water Hookups
- Pull-Through Sites
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 1 hr 2 min from Fort Smith, AR
- 1 hr 25 min from Little Rock, AR
- 1 hr 35 min from Fayetteville, AR
- 1 hr 41 min from Hot Springs, AR
