Starkey Campground

Nestled on the serene shores of Beaver Lake, just a short drive from the charming town of Eureka Springs, Starkey Campground offers a truly peaceful and secluded camping experience in the heart of the Arkansas Ozarks. If you're an Arkansas local seeking a tranquil retreat away from the crowds, where the sounds of nature replace city noise, then Starkey Campground is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. This campground provides a beautiful natural setting, perfect for reconnecting with the outdoors, enjoying the clear waters of Beaver Lake, and observing local wildlife in their natural habitat.

Starkey Campground is characterized by its "off the beaten path" charm, which directly translates to a quieter, less crowded atmosphere. This makes it an ideal destination for those who prioritize peace and seclusion during their camping trips. While it might require a bit more preparation for larger RVs or those seeking perfectly level sites, the reward is an authentic outdoor experience surrounded by the beauty of Beaver Lake. Our commitment is to provide a clean and welcoming environment where the natural landscape is the star, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the tranquility of Arkansas's stunning scenery. You'll find the beauty here is truly captivating, from the clear lake waters to the abundant wildlife that often visits the campground.

For campers who appreciate a more rustic feel with essential amenities, Starkey Campground strikes a fine balance. It's a place where you can enjoy beautiful sunsets over the lake, gather around a campfire under the stars, and wake up to the gentle sounds of nature. The campground is kept clean, and the camp hosts are noted for being nice and helpful, contributing to a pleasant overall experience. We invite you to experience the natural charm and peaceful ambiance of Starkey Campground, where memorable moments in the Arkansas outdoors await.

Starkey Campground is beautifully situated at 4022 Mundell Rd, Eureka Springs, AR 72631, USA. This address places the campground directly on the shores of Beaver Lake, one of Arkansas's most picturesque reservoirs, renowned for its clear waters and excellent recreational opportunities. While it might be described as "off the beaten path," this location is precisely what contributes to its quiet and less crowded atmosphere, making it a true escape from the hustle and bustle.

Accessibility to Starkey Campground is straightforward, though visitors should be prepared for a journey on quieter roads that lead to its secluded setting. The drive from Eureka Springs is manageable, allowing campers to easily access the town's unique attractions while enjoying the peacefulness of the campground. It’s important to note that due to the natural topography leading down to the lake, some areas within the campground, particularly the majority of sites, are located on a steep hill. This means that while the main entrance and access roads are well-maintained, navigating to individual sites may require careful maneuvering, especially for larger trailers or motorhomes. The main septic dump and garbage facilities are conveniently located at the entrance to the campground, simplifying waste disposal upon arrival or departure.

For those utilizing navigation systems, ensure your route leads you to the specific address on Mundell Road, which will guide you directly to the campground entrance. The reward for the scenic drive and careful maneuvering within the campground is unparalleled access to Beaver Lake's beautiful shoreline, coves for swimming, and opportunities for boating and kayaking. Despite its secluded feel, Starkey Campground remains close enough to Eureka Springs to allow easy day trips for dining, shopping, and exploring the town's historic charm. This balance of seclusion and accessibility makes it an ideal location for locals seeking a true outdoor experience without being too far from necessary conveniences or local attractions.

Starkey Campground offers a range of essential services designed to facilitate a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience on Beaver Lake, focusing on core amenities rather than extensive luxuries:

• RV and Tent Sites: The campground provides designated sites for both RVs and tents. While many sites are for smaller trailers due to the terrain, various options are available to suit different camping setups.
• Hookups:
  • Full Hookups: Approximately seven full hookup sites are available, primarily located at the top of the hill. These sites offer electricity, water, and sewer connections for complete RV convenience.
  • Electric-Only Sites: The majority of the remaining sites provide electricity connections.
  • Water Spigots: Several communal water spigots are conveniently located throughout the campground for easy access to fresh water for non-full hookup sites.
• Septic Dump Station: A central septic dump station is available at the entrance to the campground, providing a convenient facility for RV waste disposal.
• Garbage Disposal: Trash receptacles are located at the entrance, ensuring a clean and tidy environment throughout the campground.
• Shower House: The campground features a shower house with two private rooms. While noted for good water pressure and temperature, it offers a functional bathing facility for campers.
• Restrooms: Basic restroom facilities are available throughout the campground for guest use.
• On-Site Marina: A marina is present on-site, catering to campers with sailboats and motorboats, offering a convenient launching point for lake activities.
• Camp Hosts: Friendly and helpful camp hosts are on-site to assist with check-in and address any camper needs or questions, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere.

While the amenities are geared towards a more natural camping experience, they cover the essential needs for a comfortable stay on Beaver Lake.

Starkey Campground distinguishes itself with several key features and highlights that make it a compelling choice for campers seeking a genuine outdoor experience on Beaver Lake:

• Quiet and Secluded Atmosphere: Being "off the beaten path" means the campground is notably quiet and less crowded than more commercial parks, offering a true escape into nature. This is a major draw for those prioritizing peace and tranquility.
• Direct Lake Access to Beaver Lake: The campground provides excellent access to Beaver Lake, known for its crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming, boating, and kayaking. Several coves offer ideal spots for swimming.
• Abundant Wildlife: Guests can expect to encounter a variety of wildlife, including deer visiting in the evenings, along with birds, squirrels, and bunnies. This enhances the natural immersion experience.
• Scenic Shoreline: The rocky shoreline is beautiful and conducive to exploring, though water shoes are recommended for comfort.
• Island Proximity for Boaters/Kayakers: An island is not far from the shore, making it an accessible destination for those with kayaks or boats, though awareness of high traffic areas during weekends is advised.
• Covered Picnic Tables: Many sites, including highly recommended ones like Site 23, feature a covering over the large picnic table, providing shade and shelter for outdoor dining.
• Lantern Hangars: Many sites are equipped with convenient lantern hangars, adding to the classic camping ambiance and utility.
• Specific Site Recommendations: Reviewers highlight sites like 23 (closest to the lake, large area, covered picnic table, nearby water spigot and bathroom access, side access road), 16, 21, and 22 as particularly nice options.
• Cleanliness and Well-Maintained Grounds: Despite some older facilities, the campground is generally kept clean and well-maintained, reflecting the efforts of the camp hosts.
• Proximity to Eureka Springs: While secluded, the campground is still conveniently close to Eureka Springs, allowing easy trips to explore the town's unique attractions.

These features collectively create a rustic yet comfortable environment for enjoying the natural beauty of Beaver Lake and the surrounding Ozarks.

As Starkey Campground is a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers operated facility, it typically operates under a standard fee structure set by federal regulations, rather than offering frequent, wide-ranging promotional discounts like private campgrounds. However, there are established programs and considerations that can offer savings or special access, particularly for specific groups of campers. While direct "promotions" are not advertised, it's worth noting the following:

• America the Beautiful – The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass Series:
  • Senior Pass: U.S. citizens or permanent residents 62 years or older can purchase a Lifetime Senior Pass or an Annual Senior Pass for a reduced fee. This pass generally provides a 50% discount on standard amenity fees (like camping) at federal recreation sites, including Corps of Engineers campgrounds.
  • Access Pass: U.S. citizens or permanent residents with permanent disabilities can obtain a free Lifetime Access Pass. This pass also provides a 50% discount on standard amenity fees, similar to the Senior Pass.
  • Military Passes: Various passes are available for active duty military members, veterans, and Gold Star families, often providing free access or discounts on fees.
• Off-Season Rates: While not a promotional discount, rates for campsites might naturally be lower during the off-peak season (e.g., winter months) when demand is reduced and some amenities might be limited. The campground is open during the off-season, offering a potentially more affordable and quieter experience.
• First-Come, First-Served Sites: Some campgrounds, including federal ones, might have a limited number of first-come, first-served sites which could have different pricing structures, though this is less about a discount and more about availability.

It is always advisable for prospective campers to contact Starkey Campground directly using the provided phone numbers or visit the official U.S. Army Corps of Engineers recreation website (Recreation.gov is often used for bookings) to confirm current rates, specific fees, and eligibility for any federal pass discounts. Understanding these options can significantly impact the cost of your stay at Starkey Campground.

For inquiries, reservations, or to learn more about Starkey Campground and its offerings on Beaver Lake, please use the following contact information:

Address: 4022 Mundell Rd, Eureka Springs, AR 72631, USA

Phone: (479) 253-5866

Mobile Phone: +1 479-253-5866

Our camp hosts are generally available to assist with check-in, provide information about the campground, and address any immediate needs during your stay. For booking sites, especially for specific dates, it is often most convenient to use federal recreation reservation platforms or call ahead to check availability.

For locals in Arkansas, Starkey Campground on Beaver Lake stands out as an exceptionally suitable and appealing destination for a true escape into nature. Its "off the beaten path" location, while requiring a bit of navigating for larger rigs, is precisely what guarantees a quiet, secluded, and less crowded experience, which is often a top priority for Arkansans seeking a genuine break from their daily routines. Unlike bustling commercial campgrounds, Starkey offers a peaceful ambiance where the sounds of wildlife and gentle lapping of lake water replace the din of crowds.

The campground's direct access to the crystal-clear waters of Beaver Lake is a major draw. For Arkansas residents who own kayaks, canoes, or small boats, the on-site marina provides an immediate gateway to exploring the lake's beautiful coves, fishing spots, and scenic shoreline. This seamless integration of camping with water activities makes it incredibly convenient for locals to enjoy their favorite lake pastimes without extensive travel or logistical hurdles. Even if you don't have a boat, the beautiful, albeit rocky, shoreline and designated swimming coves offer plenty of opportunities to cool off and enjoy the water, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed day by the lake.

Moreover, the authentic camping experience, complete with abundant wildlife sightings like deer, birds, and squirrels, allows Arkansans to deeply reconnect with the natural beauty of their home state. The presence of friendly camp hosts ensures a welcoming atmosphere, providing assistance and maintaining the cleanliness that contributes to a pleasant stay. While some sites may require leveling equipment and facilities are functional rather than luxurious, these aspects are often seen as part of the charm of a true outdoor adventure, aligning with the spirit of many Arkansas campers.

Finally, the proximity to Eureka Springs offers the best of both worlds: secluded natural beauty combined with easy access to a vibrant, unique town for dining, shopping, or exploring historic sites. This allows locals to tailor their trip to include both tranquil moments by the lake and engaging cultural experiences. Starkey Campground truly provides an ideal setting for Arkansas residents to enjoy the peaceful side of Beaver Lake and create lasting memories in the heart of the Ozarks.