Corps of Engineers (COE) campgrounds dominate the camping landscape near Rogers, Arkansas, with several locations surrounding Beaver Lake's 28,000-acre reservoir. The Ozark Highlands terrain creates uneven camping pads at many sites, requiring leveling equipment for RVs and careful tent placement. Most campgrounds in the region maintain separate tent and RV camping areas with varying levels of hookups and facilities.
What to do
Disc golf course: Natural Falls State Park Campground features an extensive 18-hole disc golf course winding through the forested grounds. One visitor noted, "There are 4.5 miles of great hiking trails at the park. You can find some great hidden spots along the river and enjoy the quiet." The course offers an alternative recreation option beyond water activities.
Mountain biking access: Blowing Springs RV Park & Campsites connects directly to regional trail systems. "Perfect for the mountain bikers and hikers. Great location to access Bentonville," reports one camper. Another explains, "Such easy access to the Back 40 and Slaughter Pen mountain bike trails! We get on our bikes and ride all day and then come back and enjoy the peaceful campground!"
Wildlife viewing: Lost Bridge North provides opportunities to observe native wildlife. "Many deer to watch," reports a camper. The natural setting offers quiet observation spots away from busier recreation areas. The campground's proximity to Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge allows visitors to see rescued exotic cats.
What campers like
Lake access: Horseshoe Bend Rec Area & Campground features multiple water entry points. "Very well-maintained. Gorgeous lake with lots of lakefront sites," notes one reviewer. Another camper adds, "Site is the largest on Beaver Lake, plenty of room for large vehicles or trailers... 2 launch ramps for boats."
Scenic campsites: Rocky Branch Campground offers secluded spots with lake views. "We would definitely come back to this one. It was quiet and not busy," shares a camper. Another notes, "Campsites are very spread out and some are really secluded. Only drawback was no water hookups."
Waterfall views: Natural Falls State Park showcases a 77-foot waterfall accessible via hiking trails. "The hike to the bottom is fairly steep but there is a sidewalk that takes you to an overlook at the top," explains a visitor. The park charges a $5 entrance fee for day use visitors.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Many campgrounds have reduced facilities during off-season. At Lake Leatherwood City Park, "Camping was closed due to Covid, but we strolled thru the campgrounds. The tent camping area was spacious and close to the water." Visitor experiences vary based on seasonal restrictions.
Site leveling challenges: Prairie Creek Campground requires extensive 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 one camper. Similar conditions exist at most area campgrounds due to the hilly terrain.
Bathroom facilities: COE Beaver Lake Prairie Creek Campground has limited facilities. "Not every section has a bathroom or shower but that can be seen on the park map," notes a reviewer. Another camper observes, "Showers and bathrooms are fine" though basic in amenities.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Horseshoe Bend offers child-friendly water areas. "Swimming area was very spacious. Nice playground for kids," mentions a reviewer. The designated swimming beaches provide safer water entry than rocky shorelines.
Seasonal activities: Prairie Creek hosts special Halloween events. "Last Saturday weekend in October people decorate their sites and kids trick or treat the campers," shares a visitor. This creates community experiences for children during holiday weekends.
Playground options: Eureka Springs KOA maintains family-oriented facilities. "From swimming in the pool to shooting hoops and climbing in the playgrounds they have had plenty to do," reports a grandparent. The campground combines natural settings with structured play areas.
Tips from RVers
Site selection guidance: Prairie Creek campsites vary significantly in services. "Some have no services, some with electric only, all the way up to full services. Those near the water seem to have short pads and electric only," explains an RVer. Water access often means compromise on hookup availability.
Electrical considerations: Rocky Branch has electrical limitations. "Power at our site had low voltage so the AC wouldn't run correctly," notes one RVer. Summer visitors should confirm electrical capacity when temperatures rise.
Approach challenges: Rocky Branch presents navigation difficulties. "The pads are tired and drastically unlevel. The sites themselves are a PITA to get into. Crazy sharp turns & ridiculously steep," warns an RVer. Larger rigs should research site access before booking.
