Beavers Bend State Park region contains multiple campgrounds spanning over 1,300 acres in the Ouachita Mountains near Eagletown, Oklahoma. The terrain features pine-covered hills surrounding Broken Bow Lake and the Mountain Fork River with elevations ranging from 600-1,100 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 90-95°F with high humidity, while winter nights can drop below freezing, affecting camping conditions across the various developed and primitive sites.
What to do
Fly fishing experiences: The Mountain Fork River provides excellent fly fishing opportunities at Beavers Bend State Park Campground. "Even though I didn't catch anything my first time out fly fishing the tranquil scenery made up for it," notes Mickey B. The river maintains cold temperatures year-round due to bottom-release dam water, supporting trout populations.
Kayaking and canoeing: Multiple river access points allow water activities across the park. At Mountain Fork Park, "There are many places to rent kayaks & go down the river. There are small waterfalls. Kid friendly. Compare companies because rental prices vary," advises Bridgette P. Most outfitters offer trips ranging from 2-4 hours with rentals typically $30-50 per kayak.
Hiking options: Several marked trails accommodate various skill levels throughout the park. "Enjoyed the hiking in this park. Lots of great cleared trails. Often times I was the only hiker," reports Susan L. The COE access road along the river provides views of "the real 'wild' river with islands of cypress trees and boulders creating eddies."
What campers like
Riverside sites: Water-adjacent camping spots offer both scenic views and recreational access. At Acorn Campground, campers appreciate the premium riverside spots. "We ended up reserving a premium RV site 5 in Acorn and our 5th wheel fit perfect. This site is a back in site with the river directly behind the site," notes John R., highlighting the direct water access.
Wildlife viewing: The park hosts diverse animal species visible throughout the day. "Really enjoyed the Acorn campground - south end of park. The river ran directly behind the site and I was entertained by an otter family and ducks daily," shares Susan L. Deer sightings are common in evening hours across multiple campground areas.
Fall colors: The deciduous forest creates spectacular autumn displays. "Late October and the colors were gorgeous. We were so close, but missed peak fall colors by about a week or so," mentions Jeff R. from Acorn Campground. Peak foliage typically occurs mid-October through early November, making it a popular camping season.
What you should know
Bathhouse locations: Shower and restroom facilities vary significantly between campground areas. At Armadillo Campground, "Bathrooms were not too far away, they were private, clean and AC," reports Aaron D. However, some camping loops have limited facilities requiring longer walks to reach them.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies dramatically across the park. "No Verizon service except at the nature center. You can jump on their wifi, or if I walked to the pavilion behind the store I could get one bar on my phone," reports Susan L. T-Mobile coverage tends to be stronger in some areas with speeds of 50-60 mbps compared to Verizon's 10-20 mbps.
Campsite accessibility: Some sites present significant challenges for larger vehicles. "We arrived after dark, and found the one-way paths very tight, very curvy. I don't know how longer campers or bumper-pulls do it," shares Jason M. Specific sites like AD10 have "an extremely high break over angle" making entry difficult.
Tips for camping with families
Water safety planning: The Mountain Fork River has periodic water releases that affect conditions. "There is a water release siren that sounds occasionally and it is loud, but it doesn't happen frequently, or at night," notes Susan L. Parents should establish water safety rules as current strength changes throughout the day.
Nature center visits: Educational opportunities enhance children's camping experiences. "Great museum and nature centers. The ranger here is fantastic especially if you have kiddos," recommends Susan L., noting the interactive displays and ranger programs available during peak seasons.
Campsite selection for privacy: Some areas provide more secluded options for family camping. At Turkey Circle, one camper described their spot as a "Beautiful little hideaway spot, elevated with cozy tree cover, very private, haven't seen anyone the whole 3 days!" This area offers more buffer space between sites compared to other loops.
Tips from RVers
Specific site recommendations: Experienced campers suggest certain spots for easier access. "I recommend AD12 which is almost a direct back in from the road," advises Aaron D. at Armadillo Campground. Buckeye campground receives positive reviews for its "level concrete site" with "no mud around us" during rainy conditions.
Dump station logistics: Plan for sanitation needs based on campground location. "The dump site was directly across the street from the campground but you have to go down the road and either make a tight left turn or go further down and turn around," notes Aaron D., highlighting the importance of planning departure routes.
Pet-friendly considerations: For those seeking pet friendly camping near Eagletown, Oklahoma, site selection matters. "We had a premium RV site on river in Acorn section that had a level concrete pad with water and 30/50 amp hook up. I definitely recommend this area for large rigs," reports John R. at Creekside RV Park, where pets are permitted with standard leash rules and waste disposal requirements.
