Beaver Lake camping offers numerous Corps of Engineers sites along the 500-mile shoreline. Most campgrounds operate between April and October, with electrical hookups standard at most locations. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting shoreline access and boat ramp usability. Terrain ranges from lakeside sites to higher elevation wooded camping areas.
What to do
Trout fishing along White River: Dam Site River Campground provides direct access to trout fishing in the White River. "The 'Parker Bottoms' area of this campground is amazing. There is trout fishing right along the grounds in the White River and the sites are well kept and beautiful. The local deer greet you at breakfast from across the street," notes a camper at Dam Site River - Beaver Lake.
Hiking trails in Ozark woodlands: Lake Leatherwood City Park features an extensive trail system suitable for day hikes. "There is a great trail system in this park, so be sure to take a hike or three," mentions one visitor. This park also offers "great birdwatching opportunities, nice hiking trails," according to another camper at Lake Leatherwood City Park.
Non-motorized lake activities: The smaller Lake Leatherwood restricts motorized watercraft. "We kayak and it was a pleasant surprise to find only three powered boats on the lake throughout the weekend. You can rent canoes, paddle boards and paddle boats on an hourly rate if you haven't brought your own," shares a visitor. Beaver Lake also has areas for swimming with many campgrounds offering swim beaches.
What campers like
Lakefront camping spots: Many sites offer direct lake access. At Lost Bridge North, campers appreciate the premium waterfront locations. "Loved the site 9 and 10 was in the shade and right on the water. Great boat dock and plenty of parking. We was able to launch our kayaks from our camp site," notes a visitor.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The forested Ozark setting provides habitat for many animals. At Dam Site River Campground, "the local deer greet you at breakfast from across the street and the facilities are always clean and well maintained."
Scenic vistas from elevated sites: The hilly terrain creates natural lookout points. "I highly recommend camping here! We spent 3 nights in site 4 and it was great," mentions a camper about Lost Bridge North. Another visitor describes the area as "hilly with staggered rv slots, so it seems like everyone would have a great view of the lake."
What you should know
Uneven terrain challenges: Many campgrounds have significant elevation changes. At Prairie Creek, "all spots seemed to have unlevel pads. Be prepared with as many leveling blocks as you can bring if you have a trailer," warns one camper.
Limited water hookups: Water access varies by campground and site. "No water hookups at the sites. You fill your camper before getting to your campsite. Due to this site being in-level, you will lose water," explains a visitor at Hickory Creek.
Bathroom facility limitations: Restroom quality and availability varies widely. "The showers could use some work 15sec water timer makes for a frustrating shower after a day of MTBing," reports one camper about Prairie Creek. Another notes, "Bathrooms were locked for the season, I presume," at multiple campgrounds during off-peak times.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas for kids: Horseshoe Bend Rec Area offers water recreation suitable for children. "Swimming area was very spacious. Nice playground for kids. Sites have electric but not water so fill your tank before you come," advises one camper.
Playgrounds and recreation areas: Several campgrounds include facilities specifically for children. "There are a couple playground areas, a beach, marina, boat launch, and several bathrooms with flush toilets," notes a visitor at Prairie Creek.
Educational opportunities: The fish hatchery provides learning experiences. "While you are here, head into town which is super cute and home to the Daisy AirGun Museum!" suggests a Prairie Creek visitor. At Roaring River State Park, "you can walk the holding tanks and feed the trout from baby to ready to be released into the river."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Choose campgrounds that accommodate your vehicle size. At Hickory Creek - Beaver Lake, "spaces 33 through 43 I would recommend only if you have a small bumper pull that is maybe less than 21 feet long or a class A or class C that's probably less than 25 feet long. Most of these spaces would be very difficult to get into."
Electric hookup variability: Most sites offer electric-only hookups. "Sites in the 90's seem to be very short with the exception of 94," notes a Prairie Creek visitor about specific site numbers. Another advises, "Check the power capabilities and most sites may not have sewer."
Dump station locations: Plan for waste disposal. "Dump station has easy access," reports a camper at Horseshoe Bend. However, at Lost Bridge South, "the dump station is up the road and kind of hard to get in."
