Carter Cove Recreation Area

For those of us in Arkansas who cherish the great outdoors, Carter Cove Recreation Area in Plainview stands out as a true gem. Nestled on the scenic shores of Nimrod Lake, this Class A campground offers a fantastic blend of modern conveniences and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for everything from a quick weekend escape to an extended family vacation. It’s a place where the tranquility of the lake meets the comfort of well-maintained facilities, promising a memorable experience for campers of all kinds.

Imagine waking up to the gentle sounds of Nimrod Lake, surrounded by the natural splendor that our state is famous for. Carter Cove provides this idyllic setting, with spacious campsites and easy access to a variety of water and land-based activities. Whether your passion is reeling in a big catch, gliding across the water in a boat, or simply unwinding by the campfire under a blanket of stars, this recreation area caters to your desire for a refreshing outdoor adventure.

What truly sets Carter Cove apart is its commitment to providing a clean and enjoyable environment for all visitors. The dedicated staff and well-maintained facilities ensure that your focus can remain on relaxation and recreation. It's a testament to the quality of outdoor destinations available right here in Arkansas, offering a top-tier camping experience without the need to travel far from home.

So, if you’re a local Arkansan dreaming of your next camping trip, consider the welcoming embrace of Carter Cove Recreation Area – a place where nature's charm and modern comfort converge for an unforgettable getaway.

Carter Cove Recreation Area is conveniently located at 10692 Carter Cove Rd, Plainview, AR 72857, USA. This prime location places it directly on the shores of Nimrod Lake, an integral part of the Fourche LaFave River system, cradled between the picturesque Ouachita and Ozark Mountains of Arkansas.

For local Arkansans, getting to Carter Cove is relatively straightforward. From the town of Plainview, you can take Route 60 approximately 3 miles east to the Access Road, then continue south for about ½ mile following the signs directly into the campground. The roads leading to the recreation area are generally well-maintained, ensuring smooth access for most vehicles, including RVs and trailers.

The accessibility of Carter Cove is one of its strong points. While it offers a sense of being away from it all, it's not so remote that it becomes inconvenient. This balance makes it an excellent choice for those living in Central Arkansas and surrounding regions, allowing for relatively short drives to a serene natural setting. The proximity to Nimrod Lake means that boaters and anglers will find easy access to the water, with multiple boat launch ramps available around the lake, including one within the recreation area itself.

Within the campground, the layout is designed for user convenience, with clear signage to campsites, facilities, and activity areas. This thoughtful planning ensures that whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning guest, navigating Carter Cove is a seamless part of your relaxing outdoor experience.

Carter Cove Recreation Area is classified as a Class A park, meaning it offers a robust array of services designed to enhance the camping experience, blending natural immersion with significant comforts. This comprehensive list of amenities ensures a pleasant and convenient stay for all visitors.

• Flush Toilets: Modern, accessible flush toilet facilities are available, providing a level of comfort not always found in every campground.
• Hot Showers: Enjoy the luxury of hot showers, a welcome amenity after a day of outdoor activities or swimming in the lake.
• Trailer Dump Station: For RV and trailer campers, a convenient dump station is provided, making waste disposal easy and efficient.
• Designated Tent/Trailer Spaces: The campground features clearly marked and spacious sites that accommodate both tent campers and those with RVs and trailers.
• Trash Dumpster: As noted in customer feedback, the park management is responsive to visitor needs, including the provision of trash dumpsters to help keep the area clean and tidy.
• Electrical Hookups: Many campsites are equipped with electrical hookups (30 amp and 50 amp options), allowing for the use of electrical appliances and ensuring a comfortable RV experience.
• Water Hookups: Potable water hookups are available at many sites, offering easy access to fresh water directly at your campsite.
• Playground: A dedicated playground area is available for children, providing a safe and fun space for them to burn off energy and enjoy their time outdoors.
• Swim Beach: Carter Cove boasts a designated swim beach on Nimrod Lake, perfect for taking a refreshing dip on a warm Arkansas day.
• Boat Launch Ramps: Easy access to Nimrod Lake is provided via boat launch ramps, catering to those who wish to enjoy boating, fishing, or watersports.
• Handicapped Boat Access: The park provides accessible boat access, demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity for all visitors.
• Picnic Shelter: A large day-use group picnic shelter is available, ideal for family gatherings, group events, or simply enjoying a shaded meal outdoors.
• Fish Cleaning Station: For the avid anglers, a well-maintained fish cleaning station is a fantastic amenity, making it easy to prepare your catch.
• Visitor Protection: The presence of visitor protection services ensures a safe and secure environment for all campers.

What truly sets Carter Cove Recreation Area apart are its unique features and highlights, which draw locals and visitors alike to its natural charm. These elements create a memorable experience that showcases the best of Arkansas’s outdoor offerings.

• Prime Lakeside Location on Nimrod Lake: The campground's most significant highlight is its direct and extensive access to Nimrod Lake. This 3,550-acre lake is celebrated for its excellent fishing, with a healthy population of catfish, bluegill, bass, and crappie. It's also a hub for water sports, including boating, water skiing, and tubing, offering endless possibilities for aquatic fun and relaxation. The lake level generally remains normal for the time of year, ensuring consistent recreational opportunities.
• Exceptional Fish Cleaning Station: A standout feature, as attested by satisfied campers, is the highly functional and immaculate fish cleaning stand. This well-designed facility is a dream for anglers, providing a clean and efficient space to prepare their catch after a successful day on the lake.
• Consistently Clean and Immaculate Facilities: Visitors consistently praise Carter Cove for its cleanliness. The restrooms, showers, and overall campground areas are diligently maintained, creating a welcoming and comfortable environment that significantly enhances the camping experience.
• Spacious and Welcoming Campsites: The campsites at Carter Cove are known for being wonderfully spacious, offering ample room for both camping equipment and vehicles. Many sites also provide natural shade, contributing to a more comfortable and private setting for campers to relax.
• Responsive and Dedicated Staff: While specific camp hosts may change, the feedback highlights a responsive management team, such as the instance where a dumpster issue was quickly resolved. This demonstrates a commitment to addressing visitor needs and maintaining the quality of the park.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: With a dedicated playground and a well-maintained swim beach, Carter Cove is an ideal destination for families. These features provide safe and engaging activities for children, ensuring that campers of all ages have an enjoyable and active time.
• Abundant Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The expansive natural landscape surrounding Nimrod Lake, encompassing 21,000 acres of pristine forested land, offers rich opportunities for observing Arkansas's diverse wildlife. Visitors may spot white-tailed deer, eastern wild turkey, various bird species, and other native animals in their natural habitat, adding an educational and exciting dimension to the outdoor experience.
• Access to Hiking Trails: For those who enjoy exploring on foot, the nearby 1.5-mile self-guided Forest Hills Trail provides an accessible and pleasant hiking experience. This nature trail meanders through wooded hills and valleys, offering a chance to connect with the local flora and fauna and enjoy a peaceful walk.

As a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) managed recreation area, Carter Cove operates on a structured fee system for camping and day use, rather than offering traditional commercial "promotions." However, there are significant benefits and cost-saving opportunities that can be considered as "special offers" for locals seeking value and accessibility.

The primary "offer" is the excellent value provided for the quality of the facilities. Standard camping fees are typically set at competitive rates, such as $16 per night for 30 amp sites with water, and $18 per night for 50 amp sites with water. Multi-family sites are also available at slightly higher rates. Day use fees apply for certain activities, including a $3 per day charge for boat launching and a $1 per person fee (up to a maximum of $4 per vehicle per day) for swim area access. These fees are reinvested into maintaining the immaculate condition and comprehensive services of the park.

For frequent visitors and avid outdoor enthusiasts, the Annual Day Use Pass is a particularly attractive "promotion," priced at just $30 per year. This pass provides unlimited access to day-use areas and boat launches across numerous USACE-managed parks, including Carter Cove. This makes it an incredibly economical choice for Arkansans who regularly frequent Nimrod Lake and other similar Corps facilities, offering substantial savings over daily fees.

Additionally, holders of federal interagency passes, such as the America the Beautiful – The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Senior Pass or Access Pass, receive a significant 50 percent discount on camping fees and day use fees. These passes are available to U.S. citizens or permanent residents who are 62 years or older (Senior Pass) or have a permanent disability (Access Pass), providing a valuable incentive for eligible Arkansans to enjoy the outdoors more frequently and affordably.

While not a "promotion," it is crucial to note that reservations are highly recommended, especially during popular periods like spring break and throughout the summer months. You can conveniently make reservations through the National Reservation Service at 1-877-444-6777 or via the Recreation.gov website. Booking in advance ensures you secure your preferred campsite, which is invaluable for popular destinations like Carter Cove.

For the most current fee structures, reservation availability, and details on pass eligibility, it is always best to visit the official Recreation.gov website or contact the Nimrod Lake Project Office directly.

For any inquiries regarding Carter Cove Recreation Area, including campsite availability, current conditions, or specific amenities, the most direct and reliable contact method is through the Nimrod Lake Project Office, which oversees the recreation area.

Address:

10692 Carter Cove Rd, Plainview, AR 72857, USA

Phone:

Local Phone: (479) 272-4983

Mobile Phone: +1 479-272-4983

Alternatively, for general inquiries related to the Nimrod Lake area and facilities managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, you can contact the Nimrod Lake Project Office at:

NIMROD LAKE PROJECT OFFICE

3 HWY 7 SOUTH

PLAINVIEW AR 72857-9600

Phone for Nimrod Lake Office: 1-479-272-4324 (It's often recommended to press 9 to speak with someone directly between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. weekdays).

It is always advisable to call ahead, especially for updates on road conditions, water levels, or any temporary closures. The responsiveness of the staff, as noted in customer reviews (e.g., the quick resolution of the dumpster issue by Mr. Green), suggests that your calls will be handled professionally and helpfully, providing peace of mind for your visit.

For Arkansans seeking an accessible, comfortable, and activity-rich outdoor experience, Carter Cove Recreation Area is an unequivocally suitable destination. Its blend of convenience and natural allure makes it a top choice for locals looking to truly enjoy the beauty of our state without venturing far from home.

Firstly, its location in Plainview on the beautiful Nimrod Lake means it’s within a reasonable driving distance for many residents across Central Arkansas and surrounding regions. This allows for effortless weekend getaways or even spontaneous day trips, minimizing travel time and maximizing precious outdoor enjoyment. The straightforward access roads further simplify the journey, ensuring a stress-free start to any adventure.

The Class A amenities are a significant draw for local families and campers of all experience levels. The presence of flush toilets, hot showers, and a dedicated playground offers a level of comfort that can make camping much more enjoyable, especially for those with younger children or individuals who prefer a less rustic experience. For RV and trailer owners, the availability of electrical and water hookups at many sites, along with a convenient dump station, ensures a seamless and comfortable stay.

The abundance of recreational opportunities centered around Nimrod Lake is a major reason why Arkansans flock to Carter Cove. Whether you're an avid angler hoping for a great catch (even if it's sometimes hit and miss, as mentioned by a local), a boating enthusiast eager to glide across the water, or simply looking to cool off at the inviting swim beach, there's an activity for everyone. The well-maintained fish cleaning station is a particularly appreciated amenity for those who enjoy fresh catches.

Furthermore, the high standards of cleanliness, consistently praised by visitors, mean that Arkansans can expect a tidy and well-cared-for environment. This attention to detail, coupled with responsive park management (as evidenced by quick solutions to issues like dumpster availability), ensures a consistently positive experience. The fact that a group of campers returns every year for spring break speaks volumes about the enduring appeal and reliable quality of Carter Cove.

In essence, Carter Cove Recreation Area is a local treasure that delivers on its promise of a high-quality outdoor experience. It's an ideal spot for Arkansans to easily disconnect from urban life, reconnect with nature, indulge in a wide range of activities, and create cherished memories, all within the beautiful and welcoming landscapes of our home state.