US Army Corps of Engineers - Greers Ferry

For Arkansans seeking an exceptional outdoor experience, the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) campground at Greers Ferry Lake in Heber Springs stands as a testament to well-maintained public recreation. This isn't just any campground; it's a gateway to the vast and beautiful Greers Ferry Lake, a renowned aquatic playground in the heart of Arkansas. Managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers, these properties are consistently lauded for their cleanliness, peaceful atmosphere, and robust infrastructure, making them a top choice for families, anglers, boaters, and anyone looking to unwind in nature.

Often referred to simply as "Dam Site Campground" due to its proximity to the iconic Greers Ferry Dam, this particular USACE property offers a variety of campsites suitable for both RVs and tents. Visitors frequently commend the quiet environment and the friendly, helpful campground hosts and rangers, contributing to a consistently positive experience. The focus here is on providing accessible and enjoyable outdoor recreation, whether you're interested in spending your days on the lake, exploring the surrounding natural trails, or simply enjoying the tranquility of a well-kept campsite. For those familiar with USACE parks, the high standards of maintenance and safety are a familiar and welcome feature, establishing this campground as a premier destination for local Arkansas outdoor enthusiasts.

The US Army Corps of Engineers campground at Greers Ferry Lake is strategically located at 700 Heber Springs Rd N, Heber Springs, AR 72543, USA. This address places it directly at the foot of Greers Ferry Dam, a significant landmark and point of interest in itself. The location provides campers with immediate and convenient access to one of Arkansas's most beloved lakes, Greers Ferry Lake, and the productive Little Red River downstream from the dam.

Heber Springs, a charming city in north-central Arkansas, serves as the local hub, offering all necessary amenities such as grocery stores, restaurants, and other services within a short drive. The campground's position on Heber Springs Road North indicates excellent accessibility via well-maintained state highways, making it an easy drive for residents from various parts of Arkansas, including Little Rock, which is approximately an hour's drive south. The security gate at the register hut ensures controlled access, contributing to the peaceful and secure environment often praised by campers.

Beyond the immediate campground, the location offers a wealth of recreational opportunities. The William Carl Garner Visitor Center, just west of the dam, provides educational exhibits and information about the lake and dam. The Greers Ferry National Fish Hatchery, located below the dam, offers free tours and insight into trout production for the Little Red River. Furthermore, the area is rich with hiking trails, including the Mossy Bluff and Buckeye National Nature Trails adjacent to the Visitor Center, offering stunning views and opportunities to explore the unique local flora and fauna. This combination of natural beauty, recreational access, and nearby urban conveniences makes the USACE Greers Ferry campground a highly accessible and desirable destination for Arkansans.

The US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) campground at Greers Ferry Lake is well-equipped with a comprehensive array of services designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience for all visitors. These amenities cater to a variety of camping styles and needs, from basic tent camping to RV stays.

• Campsites with Electric Hookups: The campground offers a significant number of sites with electric hookups (typically 30-amp and 50-amp), providing power for RVs and other electrical needs. While full hookups (water and sewer at site) might not be available at every site, many do offer water and electric.
• Tent and RV Friendly Sites: A variety of site sizes and types are available, accommodating both large recreational vehicles and traditional tent setups. Some sites are pull-through, offering ease of access.
• Flush and Vault Toilets: Clean and well-maintained restroom facilities, including modern flush toilets and more rustic vault toilets, are available throughout the campground for convenience.
• Showers: Hot showers are provided, a welcome amenity that enhances comfort, especially after a day of outdoor activities.
• Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is readily available through spigots located within the campground.
• Dump Station: A convenient trailer dump station is on-site, allowing RV campers to dispose of wastewater easily.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is typically equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring (often with a grill grate), perfect for outdoor cooking and enjoying campfires (fire restrictions permitting).
• Swimming Areas: Designated swimming areas and beaches on Greers Ferry Lake are accessible from the campground, providing a safe and enjoyable space for cooling off.
• Boat Ramps: Convenient boat launch ramps are available within the recreational area, offering easy access for launching boats onto Greers Ferry Lake.
• Playgrounds: Play areas are often available for children, making it a family-friendly destination.
• On-site Hosts and Rangers: Friendly and helpful campground hosts and park rangers are usually on duty, providing assistance, enforcing rules, and ensuring a pleasant and safe environment for all campers.
• Security Gate: A security gate at the entrance hut provides controlled access, enhancing the peaceful and secure atmosphere of the campground.

These comprehensive services ensure that campers at the USACE Greers Ferry property can enjoy a comfortable and well-supported outdoor experience.

The US Army Corps of Engineers campground at Greers Ferry Lake is celebrated for numerous features and highlights that make it a standout destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Arkansas.

• Proximity to Greers Ferry Dam: Being located at the base of the majestic Greers Ferry Dam offers a unique vantage point and easy access to the dam itself, including the opportunity to witness hydroelectric power generation.
• Access to Greers Ferry Lake: The primary highlight is direct and easy access to Greers Ferry Lake, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and diverse recreational opportunities. Campers can enjoy boating, sailing, water skiing, swimming, scuba diving, and world-class fishing for species like walleye, hybrid stripers, and black bass.
• Access to the Little Red River: Below the dam, the cold waters of the Little Red River offer exceptional trout fishing, including brown trout, rainbow trout, and cutthroat trout. This makes the campground an ideal base for anglers.
• Clean, Quiet, and Peaceful Environment: Consistently highlighted in visitor reviews, the campground is known for its immaculately clean facilities and serene atmosphere. It provides a true escape from noise and crowds, fostering relaxation.
• Scenic Beauty: The campground is set amidst a dense mix of native trees such as red cedar, black gum, and oak, providing abundant shade in summer and vibrant fall colors in autumn. The natural beauty of the Ozark Mountains is ever-present.
• Variety of Recreational Trails: Nearby, campers can explore multiple National Nature Trails, including Mossy Bluff and Buckeye, offering opportunities for hiking with stunning views of the lake and river.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The surrounding natural habitat is home to abundant wildlife, including white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and a wide variety of bird species, making it excellent for nature observation and photography.
• Well-Maintained Facilities: As a USACE property, the campground benefits from high standards of maintenance, ensuring clean restrooms, showers, and well-kept campsites.
• Helpful Campground Hosts and Rangers: The presence of friendly and accommodating staff enhances the overall camping experience, providing assistance and maintaining order.

These features combine to create a comprehensive and appealing outdoor experience that draws visitors back to the US Army Corps of Engineers campground at Greers Ferry Lake year after year.

For those planning a visit or seeking more detailed information about the US Army Corps of Engineers campground at Greers Ferry Lake, here is the essential contact information:

Address: 700 Heber Springs Rd N, Heber Springs, AR 72543, USA

Phone: (501) 362-2416 (This is the Greers Ferry Project Office number)

Mobile Phone: +1 501-362-2416

For specific campground inquiries, including site availability, reservations, and gate hours, it is often best to call the Park Gate House directly. A commonly cited number for campground inquiries specifically is (501) 362-5233. Additionally, like all US Army Corps of Engineers campgrounds, reservations for sites at Greers Ferry Lake are primarily made through the official Recreation.gov website. Visiting Recreation.gov and searching for "Dam Site (Greers Ferry)" or "Greers Ferry Lake" will provide the most accurate and up-to-date information on booking, site maps, available amenities for specific sites, and any important alerts or closures. It is always recommended to check the website for real-time availability and to make your reservations in advance, especially during peak seasons, as these popular sites can fill up quickly.

For residents of Arkansas, the US Army Corps of Engineers campground at Greers Ferry Lake in Heber Springs is an exceptionally suitable and highly desirable destination for a multitude of reasons. It represents the quintessential Arkansas outdoor experience, combining natural beauty with well-managed recreational facilities.

Firstly, its prime location on the crystal-clear Greers Ferry Lake makes it a mecca for water-based activities that are central to the Arkansan lifestyle. Locals can effortlessly indulge in boating, swimming, fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The added benefit of having immediate access to the world-renowned trout fishing on the Little Red River below the dam provides an unparalleled angling experience right in their backyard. This duality of lake and river access sets it apart, offering diverse opportunities for water recreation regardless of preference.

Secondly, the consistent praise for the campground's cleanliness, quiet atmosphere, and peaceful environment resonates deeply with Arkansans seeking a genuine escape from daily life. The feeling of security provided by the well-maintained USACE property and the friendly, attentive staff ensures a worry-free and relaxing stay. It’s a place where families can feel safe, and individuals can find solace in nature without venturing too far from home comforts.

Moreover, the availability of various site types, from electric hookup RV sites to comfortable tent sites, ensures that a wide range of camping preferences are accommodated. The presence of modern amenities like flush toilets and showers further enhances the comfort, bridging the gap between rustic camping and full-service resorts. Coupled with the scenic beauty of the Ozark foothills, the opportunities for hiking, and the chance to witness hydroelectric power generation at the dam, the US Army Corps of Engineers campground at Greers Ferry Lake offers a comprehensive and enriching outdoor experience. It's a testament to Arkansas's commitment to preserving and sharing its natural treasures, making it an ideal, accessible, and beloved destination for locals.

US Army Corps of Engineers - Greers Ferry

700 Heber Springs Rd N, Heber Springs, AR 72543, USA