Best Campgrounds near Bella Vista, AR
The Ozark Mountain region surrounding Bella Vista, Arkansas features a mix of established campgrounds and recreational areas primarily centered around Beaver Lake. Blowing Springs RV Park & Campsites in Bella Vista provides year-round camping with full hookups for RVs, while also accommodating tent campers and offering cabin rentals. Within a 30-minute drive, Prairie Creek and Horseshoe Bend Recreation Area, both managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, provide lakefront camping with electric hookups. The Campground at Coler offers a more rustic experience with both drive-in and hike-in access. Most campgrounds in this area maintain moderate to high user ratings, reflecting their well-maintained facilities and scenic locations.
Reservations are strongly recommended for lakefront sites, particularly during summer months when occupancy rates frequently reach 75% or higher. Many Corps of Engineers campgrounds have seasonal operating schedules, with Prairie Creek open year-round but others like Horseshoe Bend operating from April through October. According to one camper at Prairie Creek, "There were places for all sized RVs and tents. There is a very nice day use area with picnic tables and a lot of shelters." Cell service varies significantly throughout the region, with some campgrounds reporting limited or no coverage. Roads to campgrounds often involve narrow, winding routes through the Ozarks, prompting visitors to stock up on supplies before arrival as grocery stores can be several miles from camping areas.
Lakefront camping receives particular praise from visitors to the area. At Horseshoe Bend, campers note the "gorgeous lake with lots of lakefront sites" and "paved, smooth roads in and out." The region's campgrounds typically include standard amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and bathhouses, though quality and accessibility vary. Wildlife viewing opportunities include deer, waterfowl, and various bird species. Fishing is popular, with Beaver Lake known for bass, crappie, and catfish. During peak summer weekends, boat traffic increases substantially on the lakes, affecting the tranquility of some waterfront sites. Several campgrounds serve as convenient basecamps for exploring nearby attractions including Hobbs State Park, War Eagle Mill, and the mountain biking trails of Northwest Arkansas.
