Camping near Cave Springs, Arkansas offers access to Beaver Lake with its 500-mile shoreline and several Corps of Engineers campgrounds situated in the Ozark Mountains at 1,100-1,300 feet elevation. The weather varies seasonally with hot, humid summers reaching 90°F and mild spring and fall conditions that draw campers looking for waterfront sites. Several campgrounds provide electric hookups but many don't offer water at individual sites.
What to do
Hiking trails: At Blowing Springs RV Park & Campsites, visitors can explore an arboretum and spring-fed creeks. "There is a great trail system in this park, so be sure to take a hike or three. I came across a cemetery up on a bluff, and found another small spring," notes Annie C.
Disc golf: Natural Falls State Park Campground features an extensive disc golf course. "Big campsites, hiking trails and 18 hole disc golf," reports Christy W. The course winds through the park's natural terrain, providing a challenging experience for players of all skill levels.
Fishing opportunities: Beaver Lake supports multiple fish species accessible from shoreline camping spots. "Great family Corp campground. Some sites have electric and water some just electric. Great for walking, riding bikes. And walking the dog," says Susan C. about Horseshoe Bend Rec Area & Campground.
Water recreation: Most campgrounds offer swimming areas with designated beaches. "The swim beach, & marina are good! There are several good restaurants popping up; Fat Chef, Sam's BBQ and burgers, a bakery, and nice breakfast spot on 12," mentions Chryl H. about Prairie Creek Campground.
What campers like
Lakefront sites: Campers consistently praise waterfront locations with direct lake access. "Nice very scenic campground. Hilly with staggered rv slots, so it seems like everyone would have a great view of the lake," writes Jody D. about Lost Bridge North.
Tent camping areas: Some parks maintain separate zones for different camping styles. "The tent sites are separate from the RV area, and RV's don't have to go through the tents to get to their area," explains Annie C. about Blowing Springs RV Park.
Off-season solitude: Visiting outside peak summer months offers more privacy. "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," notes Megan B. about Lost Bridge North.
Wildlife viewing: The natural environment supports diverse animal sightings. "Quiet peaceful right on the lake. Many deer to watch," shares Susan C. about Lost Bridge North, highlighting one aspect of glamping near Cave Springs that nature enthusiasts appreciate.
What you should know
Site levelness issues: Many camping pads throughout the region 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 COE Beaver Lake Prairie Creek Campground.
Water hookup limitations: Not all sites provide water connections. "Basically every spot has water hookup EXCEPT the spots in the loop we were in (which is fine, we were aware before we arrived)," explains Mandi R. about Prairie Creek Campground.
Bathroom facilities vary: Quality and proximity of restrooms differ significantly between campgrounds. "Showers and bathrooms on site. The only reason I gave it 4 stars was the limited bathrooms. I didn't mind but when the girlfriend had to use the restroom it was a hike," mentions Steve W. about Horseshoe Bend.
Reservation requirements: During peak seasons, advance booking is essential. "Last minute online reservation got me a prime spot in this wonderful campground. Came to the area to visit Crystal Bridges Museum. The campground is easy to get to and only 25 minutes to Bentonville and 10 minutes to Rogers," shares Stacey about Prairie Creek.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming beach access: Some locations offer kid-friendly water areas. "There are a couple playground areas, a beach, marina, boat launch, and several bathrooms with flush toilets," notes Annie C. about Prairie Creek Campground, making it a good option for luxury glamping near Cave Springs.
Playground availability: Lake Leatherwood City Park provides recreational facilities for children. "Up in the RV area is a nice playground for the kids, and down by the lake is a big boat launch with fun paddle boats and kayaks for rent," says Annie C.
Rental equipment: Several parks offer boat rentals for family activities. "Down by the lake is a big boat launch with fun paddle boats and kayaks for rent (the rental cottage is right there at the boat house, very convenient)," adds Annie C. about Lake Leatherwood.
Halloween events: Seasonal activities create memorable family experiences. "Last Saturday weekend in October people decorate there sites and kids trick or treat the campers," mentions Susan C. about Horseshoe Bend, highlighting special glamping experiences near Cave Springs that families can enjoy.
Tips from RVers
Electric options: Most campgrounds offer electric hookups with varying amperage. "Site PCRE 6 had electric and water. Campground has dump station, clean showers, flush toilets and vault toilets. Verizon 4G 5 bars. Elevation 1,287 ft. Rate $11 with Sr. Lifetime pass," reports Annell N. about Prairie Creek.
Site selection considerations: Choosing the right location affects privacy and views. "The sites in the 90's seem to be very short with the exception of 94. Can't wait to come back," advises Roger H. about Prairie Creek, noting important considerations for RV glamping near Cave Springs.
Access challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult entry points for larger vehicles. "The upper sites are tough to negotiate and are not very level.. large Motorhomes are not recommended for these sites.. campers or pull behind units will be ok but check the access into the sites," warns John F. about Rocky Branch Campground.
Dump station locations: Knowing waste disposal options is important for longer stays. "No sewer hook ups. There is however a dump station on site. The bathrooms are also just average," notes Mike B. about Prairie Creek Campground.
