US Army Corps of Engineers (South Park)

For those of us in Arkansas who love to immerse ourselves in the natural beauty of our state, finding a reliable and well-maintained campground is key to a perfect outdoor adventure. The US Army Corps of Engineers (South Park) campground, often referred to as Aux Arc Campground, in Ozark, AR, is a fantastic option that combines the serene beauty of the Arkansas River Valley with convenient amenities. Managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, this campground offers a peaceful retreat for families, couples, and solo explorers looking to connect with nature.

This campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it's a gateway to the expansive Ozark Lake and the Arkansas River, providing a picturesque backdrop for your outdoor activities. While it's important to note that the campground primarily offers sites with electric and water hookups, and reservations are typically required, the overall experience promises tranquility and the chance to enjoy the great outdoors. With its well-spaced sites, clean facilities, and a dedicated team, US Army Corps of Engineers (South Park) offers a refreshing escape right here in our backyard, perfect for creating lasting memories amidst the stunning Arkansas landscape.

From boating and fishing on Ozark Lake to simply enjoying the quiet ambiance, this campground provides a comfortable and accessible way to enjoy the recreational opportunities that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers so diligently maintains across the country. It’s a testament to the beauty and accessibility of public lands in Arkansas, inviting us all to explore and appreciate what’s right outside our doors.

The US Army Corps of Engineers (South Park) campground is strategically located at 1314 Aux Arc Park Rd, Ozark, AR 72949, USA. This prime position places it directly on the shores of Ozark Lake and the Arkansas River, offering campers direct access to water-based activities and stunning river views. For Arkansans, this means a relatively easy drive to a true outdoor sanctuary, often without the hassle of long-distance travel.

Ozark, Arkansas, serves as a gateway to the broader Ozark Mountains region, known for its rolling hills, lush forests, and winding waterways. The campground's address provides clear directions and is easily accessible from major routes, making your journey smooth. From Ozark, take SR-23 south for about 1.5 miles to SR-309, then turn left and follow the signs to Aux Arc Park Road, which will lead you directly to the campground entrance.

While the campground is nestled in a peaceful setting, it remains conveniently close to the town of Ozark, where visitors can find essential services, supplies, and a taste of local charm. The proximity to this small city, combined with the vast recreational opportunities on Ozark Lake, strikes an excellent balance for campers who appreciate both natural immersion and practical accessibility. This makes it an ideal choice for both short getaways and longer stays, allowing you to maximize your time enjoying the outdoors rather than on the road.

The US Army Corps of Engineers (South Park) campground provides a range of essential services and amenities designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience for all visitors. These services highlight the commitment of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to maintaining high-quality recreational facilities:

• Electric and Water Hookups: The campground primarily offers sites with electric and water hookups. This means campers can enjoy the convenience of powered sites for their RVs and a reliable water supply, enhancing the comfort of their outdoor stay. Some sites also offer 50 amp service and sewer hookups.
• Spacious Campsites: Aux Arc Campground provides spacious, shady campsites, many of which are level and easy to back into. These sites are equipped with a picnic table, fire ring, and grill, perfect for outdoor meals and evening campfires.
• Flush Toilets and Hot Showers: Well-maintained flush restrooms and hot showers are available on-site, providing a significant comfort for campers. These facilities are often praised for their cleanliness.
• Dump Station: A convenient dump station is available for RVs, making it easy to manage waste during your stay.
• Playgrounds: For families traveling with children, the campground features two playgrounds, offering a dedicated space for kids to play and expend some energy.
• Boat Ramp: Direct access to Ozark Lake is provided via a boat ramp, making it easy for campers to launch their boats for fishing, boating, or simply enjoying the water.
• Picnic Shelters: Three picnic shelters with electricity are available and can be reserved, ideal for larger gatherings or group events.
• Drinking Water: Access to potable drinking water is available throughout the campground, ensuring campers have a clean water supply.
• Visitor Information and Assistance: While the website notes that primitive camping and non-reservation camping may not always be available despite previous information, the staff at the office are known to be very helpful in assisting campers, even in finding alternative campgrounds if needed.

The US Army Corps of Engineers (South Park) campground boasts several key features that make it a compelling destination for Arkansas locals seeking an enriching outdoor experience:

• Picturesque Lake and River Views: Situated directly on the shores of Ozark Lake and the Arkansas River, the campground offers stunning water views. Many sites provide excellent vantage points for watching boats and barges pass by, creating a dynamic and engaging backdrop to your camping trip.
• Peaceful and Quiet Atmosphere: Despite its convenient location, the campground maintains a notably quiet and peaceful ambiance. This makes it an ideal spot for relaxation, disconnecting from daily life, and truly immersing yourself in nature's tranquility.
• Well-Maintained and Clean Facilities: Visitors consistently praise the cleanliness of the campground, including its restrooms and overall grounds. The commitment to upkeep ensures a pleasant and comfortable stay for all.
• Spacious and Accessible Sites: The campsites are generously spaced, offering privacy and room to spread out. Many are level and easy to navigate for both RVs and tents, with amenities like picnic tables and fire rings readily available at each site.
• Abundant Recreational Opportunities: The location provides direct access to a wealth of activities. Boating, fishing (for species like catfish, bream, crappie, and bass), and hiking are popular pastimes. Public lands surrounding the lake also offer opportunities for hunting during season, including deer, quail, squirrels, and wild turkey.
• Friendly and Helpful Staff: As noted in a customer review, the couple at the office are "very helpful," demonstrating a commitment to guest satisfaction even when encountering unforeseen circumstances like website issues or reservation challenges. Their assistance can be invaluable in ensuring your trip goes smoothly.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: With two playgrounds on-site, the campground is well-suited for families with children, providing dedicated spaces for play and fun in the outdoors.
• Proximity to Local Attractions: Beyond the immediate campground activities, Ozark Lake is close to significant Arkansas attractions. Notably, two of the largest wineries in the state are located in nearby Altus, offering a unique cultural experience reminiscent of European vineyards.

As a campground managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), the US Army Corps of Engineers (South Park) campground typically adheres to federal recreational fee policies. While specific, limited-time promotional offers like "buy-one-get-one-free" might not be common, USACE campgrounds do participate in established national discount programs that can significantly reduce camping costs for eligible individuals. It is crucial to be aware of these federal passes, which include:

• America the Beautiful – National Parks & Federal Recreational Lands Pass Series:
• Senior Pass (Annual & Lifetime): Available for U.S. citizens or permanent residents aged 62 or over. Holders receive a 50% discount on fees at federal campgrounds, including those managed by USACE. The annual pass is $20, and the lifetime pass is $80.
• Access Pass (Lifetime): Free for U.S. citizens or permanent residents with permanent disabilities. Holders receive a 50% discount on fees at federal campgrounds.
• Military Pass (Annual): Free for current U.S. military members and their dependents, as well as most members of the US Reserves and National Guard. Note that this pass covers entrance and standard amenity fees but typically does NOT include camping fees; however, it's always worth confirming any exceptions with the specific campground.
• Volunteer Pass (Annual): Free for individuals who have volunteered 250 hours at federal recreation sites. Similar to the Military Pass, this covers entrance fees but usually not camping fees.
• Every Kid Outdoors Pass (Annual): Free for 4th-grade students (and accompanying family). Primarily for entrance fees, but it's worth checking if any associated benefits extend to camping.

It is highly recommended to contact US Army Corps of Engineers (South Park) directly at their phone number (479) 667-1100 or visit the official Recreation.gov website (which handles USACE campground reservations) to inquire about current rates, availability, and specific discount policies that apply to your situation. Availability of these passes and their application to specific site types can vary, so always verify before your trip.

For inquiries, reservations, or to gather more details about the US Army Corps of Engineers (South Park) campground, please use the following contact information:

• Address: 1314 Aux Arc Park Rd, Ozark, AR 72949, USA
• Phone: (479) 667-1100
• Mobile Phone: +1 479-667-1100

It is also advisable to check the Recreation.gov website for booking and the most up-to-date information on site availability and policies, as this is the primary platform for US Army Corps of Engineers campground reservations.

For Arkansans seeking a convenient and enriching outdoor experience, the US Army Corps of Engineers (South Park) campground, or Aux Arc Campground, is an excellent choice. Its prime location on Ozark Lake and the Arkansas River provides easy access to water-based recreation, from boating and fishing to simply enjoying the serene views of passing barges. For those of us living in the state, it offers a perfect balance of natural immersion and accessibility, meaning less time traveling and more time enjoying the great outdoors right in our own backyard.

The campground's commitment to providing well-maintained sites with essential electric and water hookups ensures a comfortable stay, even for those new to camping or who prefer more amenities. The presence of clean bathhouses with hot showers, playgrounds for children, and convenient dump stations makes it a family-friendly and hassle-free destination. While reservations are generally required for these developed sites, planning ahead ensures you secure your spot in this tranquil setting.

The helpfulness of the on-site staff, as noted by visitors, adds another layer of assurance, knowing that assistance is available if needed. Furthermore, the proximity to the charming town of Ozark means that any necessary supplies or local dining experiences are just a short drive away. Whether you're looking for a peaceful weekend retreat, a fishing expedition, or a base for exploring the wider Ozark Mountains region, the US Army Corps of Engineers (South Park) campground offers a reliable, beautiful, and enjoyable option for Arkansas locals to reconnect with nature and create lasting memories.