Beaver Lake spans 28,000 acres with 487 miles of shoreline in northwest Arkansas. The lake sits in the Ozark Mountains at an elevation of 1,120 feet and supports diverse wildlife including white-tailed deer, bald eagles, and numerous fish species. Corps of Engineers campgrounds around the lake maintain varying opening dates, with many closing for winter between October and April.
What to do
Trail hiking: Access several hiking trails at Lost Bridge North where a 5-mile trail runs through the park with historical features. "There's a place not too far away called Turpentine Creek wildlife refuge where these animals have been saved from a life of pain," notes Myra P., highlighting nearby attractions.
Mountain biking: Blowing Springs RV Park & Campsites connects directly to the Back 40 trail system. "Perfect for the mountain bikers and hikers. Great location to access Bentonville," mentions Nathan V., making this spot ideal for those bringing bikes.
Water recreation: Horseshoe Bend Recreation Area offers multiple boat launch ramps and swimming areas. "Site is the largest on Beaver Lake, plenty of room for large vehicles or trailers. 2 launch ramps for boats. Close to Rogers and close to great food," shares John F.
Wildlife viewing: Deer frequently roam through campgrounds, particularly at dusk and dawn. "Many deer to watch," notes Susan C. about the Lost Bridge North campground, making wildlife spotting a common activity.
What campers like
Lakefront sites: Horseshoe Bend Rec Area features numerous waterfront camping spots. "Found this gem tucked away in Northwest Arkansas. Corps of Engineers Campground. Very well-maintained. Gorgeous lake with lots of lakefront sites," writes Mary D.
Spacious campsites: Campers appreciate sites with adequate room. "Spacious sites surrounded by tall oaks & plenty of wildlife. Each site comes with a picnic table, fire pit, stove table & lantern hook," explains Kristi A. about Prairie Creek.
Quiet atmosphere: During off-peak times, campers enjoy the peacefulness. "Visited here in early spring and were spoiled with amazing lake views and not many neighbors. When the trees leaf out I'm guessing you still would have good privacy," shares Megan B. about Lost Bridge North.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain good bathrooms and showers. "Showers and bathrooms on site. A swim beach with drive up access. Picnic tables, water, and fire pits at each campsite. Lots of shade to keep you cool in the summer," describes Stephanie M.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds require leveling equipment. "Be prepared with as many leveling blocks as you can bring if you have a trailer. All spots seemed to have unlevel pads," warns Mandi R. about Prairie Creek.
Limited hookups at some sites: Not all campsites offer full hookups. "No primitive camping sites," mentions Kelly R. about Prairie Creek, while Mary D. notes, "Sites have electric but not water so fill your tank before you come."
Shower availability varies: Some campgrounds lack shower facilities entirely. "The hike to the lolly bathrooms was all uphill, and the showers were a 20 min walk. Quite long," reports Cate S. about her Prairie Creek experience.
Seasonal closures: Most Corps of Engineers campgrounds close during winter months. "Bathrooms were locked for the season, I presume," notes Jody D. after a visit to Lost Bridge North, which operates from April through September.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Eureka Springs KOA offers extensive family amenities. "We brought our grandkids out for a weekend and stayed in one of the larger spaces with a deck and gas grill. They have had a blast. From swimming in the pool to shooting hoops and climbing in the playgrounds they have had plenty to do," shares Craig B.
Swimming areas: Look for designated swimming beaches for safer water play. "There is an area for swimming as well," mentions Matt S. about Prairie Creek, while Doug G. adds, "The campground has 2 swimming areas. No real beach but the site at the day-use boat ramp is better than the campground swimming area."
Holiday activities: Seasonal events create special memories for children. "Last Saturday weekend in October people decorate their sites and kids trick or treat the campers," explains Susan C. about Horseshoe Bend's Halloween festivities.
Cabin options: For glamping at Beaver Lake with children, consider cabin rentals. "We stayed in a Kamping Kabin with a bunk bed and a full size bed and it was sparkling clean," shares Rebecca W. about Eureka Springs KOA's accommodations.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: For RV camping at Lake Leatherwood City Park, choose carefully. "The RV sites were very close together and up the hill from the water, without much view," notes Jess C., highlighting the importance of site research.
Power considerations: Be aware of electrical limitations. "Power at our site had low voltage so the AC wouldn't run correctly. Probably a better destination when it is cooler," advises Phil B. about Rocky Branch Campground.
Campsite positioning: At Prairie Creek, sites vary significantly. "I like this campground because it's close to Rogers. I use it when I'm working in the area to shorten my commute. Best sites are 96 for spaciousness and lake view, 73, 74, & 5 for levelness and easy in and out," recommends Chryl H.
Dump station access: Most campgrounds offer dump stations even without full hookups. "There is dump station, clean showers, flush toilets and vault toilets," reports Annell N. about Prairie Creek's facilities.
