Dierks Lake features 1,360 surface acres of water with fishing access year-round through the Army Corps of Engineers facilities. The lake sits at an elevation of 526 feet, providing moderate temperatures even during summer months. Fall camping near Dierks Lake typically begins in mid-September when nighttime temperatures drop into the 60s, making it more comfortable for those without air conditioning.
What to do
Hiking trails access: The area below Gillham Lake spillway offers easy access to hiking paths with paved sections suitable for biking. "This area is located below the spillway. Basketball goals, horseshoe pits, and a playground are available," notes a visitor to Cossatot Reefs - Gillham Lake.
River activities: The Caddo River provides multiple recreation options with shallow areas for wading. "The float is also so much fun and accessible for all ages! There's so much to see and the water actually moves instead of you having to paddle the whole way," writes a camper at Caddo River Access RV Park.
Diamond hunting: Just 25 miles from Dierks Lake, visitors can search for gems at Crater of Diamonds State Park. "We stayed for two nights and got to rent out equipment for free to go diamond mining and the woman on staff was very friendly," shares a guest at Murfeesboro RV Park.
What campers like
Riverside camping: Many sites offer direct water access for fishing and swimming. "The River was crisp and clear and was just a few strides away. You can hear the tiny rapids over the rocks at night," explains a visitor at Cossatot Reefs.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and hot showers are available at multiple rv parks near Dierks Lake. "And their boast of hot showers did NOT disappoint!! The camp host was amazing! He was so helpful and full of great recommendations," reports a camper at Cossatot Reefs.
Convenient location: Many campgrounds provide quick access to nearby towns for supplies. "Very convenient place to stay only 2 min from town and just a short drive to any location you might want to visit," notes a visitor to South Fork RV and Camping.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Network coverage varies significantly throughout the Dierks Lake region. "Almost no cell service with T-Mobile for any interested parties," reports a camper at Cossatot Reefs, while others mention spotty Verizon coverage at certain sites.
Seasonal pest concerns: Summer months bring increased insect activity, especially near water. "Got the popup all setup, then discovered there was a large wasp nest in the electric hookup box. Had to break down and move to another spot in the dark," warns a visitor to Caddo River Access RV Park.
Road noise varies: Some campgrounds experience traffic sounds from nearby highways. "Be warned that the campsite is right off a highway bridge so a decent amount of traffic through at all times," notes a Caddo River Access camper. Another mentions, "The campsite is closer to the river/bridge construction than the map says, and was currently blocked by construction vehicles."
Weather considerations: Spring storms can impact lower-lying campsites near rivers. Fall camping (September-November) offers more moderate temperatures with average highs in the 70s-80s and lows in the 50s-60s.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer recreation areas for children. "Campgrounds are set up for RV, boast grills, firepits, and improves surfaces. There's a canoe launch, volleyball, basketball, playground, horseshoes," shares a visitor to Cossatot Reefs - Gillham Lake.
Spacing between sites: Some family campers prefer areas with more privacy. "Lot 18 was tight to back into for first timers but it was so worth it. Plenty of space between us and others to the right and woods to the left," notes a Cossatot Reefs camper.
Activity options: Consider campgrounds with multiple recreation choices for different age groups. "This is an awesome place to camp and get away without going too far! It is located a little south of central Arkansas so it's easily accessible to the whole state," shares a Caddo River Access visitor.
Tips from RVers
Water hookup distance: At some Dierks Lake area campgrounds, water connections may require additional equipment. "The only hitch was the water faucet at the site was so far from the RV pad we had to go into town and buy additional hose," notes a camper at Cossatot Reefs.
Site size considerations: Large RVs may find certain sites challenging. "Very very basic park. Sites are barely what you would call improved, all grass, maybe some gravel underneath. Fairly level," reports a visitor to Broken Bow Inn & RV Park.
Full hookup availability: Multiple RV parks near Dierks Lake offer complete utilities. "Small stone roads that were clean and nice. Sites are very close together, but well maintained. Full hookups and pull through sites," notes a visitor to Sunrise RV Park, while another mentions it's "Good overnight stay when we go to southern texas. Easy in and easy out."
