Willow Beach Recreation Area & Campground

Hey there, Arkansas adventurers! Are you searching for that perfect blend of peaceful riverside relaxation and convenient access to outdoor fun, all within our beautiful Natural State? Look no further than Willow Beach Recreation Area & Campground in Scott, Arkansas. Managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, this campground offers a well-maintained and tranquil setting right on the historic Arkansas River, making it a fantastic spot for locals and visitors alike to unwind and reconnect with nature.

Arkansas is renowned for its stunning waterways and verdant landscapes, and Willow Beach truly embodies this spirit. Whether you're an avid angler, a boating enthusiast, a family looking for a clean and safe place to camp, or simply someone who enjoys a quiet evening under the stars, Willow Beach provides a welcoming environment. While some aspects of riverfront nature require a bit of awareness (like our slithery friends, as one reviewer noted!), the core experience here is consistently praised for its cleanliness and peaceful atmosphere. We understand that as Arkansans, we appreciate places that offer genuine outdoor experiences with a touch of well-managed comfort.

This article will be your comprehensive guide to Willow Beach Recreation Area & Campground. We’ll cover its accessible location near Little Rock, detail the essential services and amenities it offers, highlight its key features that draw in visitors, touch upon any potential special offers, and provide all the contact information you'll need. By the end, you'll see why Willow Beach is a particularly suitable spot for us locals seeking a memorable outdoor escape right here in our own backyard.

Willow Beach Recreation Area & Campground is situated at 11690 Willow Beach Rd, Scott, AR 72142, USA. This prime location places it directly on the banks of the Arkansas River, specifically near the David D. Terry Lock and Dam. What makes this particularly appealing for Arkansans is its remarkable accessibility.

The campground is just minutes away from Little Rock, our state capital and largest city. This close proximity means you can enjoy a genuine outdoor escape without having to travel for hours. From Little Rock, you can typically reach Willow Beach by taking U.S. Highway 165 east for a short distance, then turning onto Colonel Manard Road, and finally Blue Heron Parkway, following clear signs to the park. The drive is straightforward, mostly on paved roads, making it easy for RVs and trailers of all sizes to access.

This strategic location offers the best of both worlds: the peace and quiet of a natural riverside setting, combined with the convenience of nearby urban amenities. If you forget supplies, need groceries, or want to explore city attractions, Little Rock is just a short drive away, offering a wide array of restaurants, shops, and cultural sites like the Clinton Presidential Museum. Furthermore, its position on the Arkansas River opens up a vast world of recreational opportunities, making it a central hub for boating and fishing enthusiasts in the region. The easy accessibility ensures that more Arkansans can enjoy this beautiful recreation area without extensive planning or travel time.

Willow Beach Recreation Area & Campground, being a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE) facility, offers a solid range of services designed to provide a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience. While it maintains a focus on outdoor recreation, it includes amenities that make it accessible for many types of campers. Here are the key services you can expect:

• Campsites with Electric and Water Hookups: The campground features 21 Class A campsites, all equipped with both electric and water hookups. This is a significant convenience for RVers, allowing them to power their vehicles and access fresh water directly at their site.

• Restroom Facilities: Clean and well-maintained restrooms are available for campers. Reviews consistently mention the cleanliness of these facilities, with some noting heated bathrooms.

• Hot Showers: The campground provides shower facilities, often with hot water, which is a welcome amenity after a day of outdoor activities. While one older review mentioned issues, more recent reviews indicate they are clean and functional.

• Dump Station: A convenient dump station is available for RVers to empty their wastewater tanks before departure, ensuring a clean and responsible camping experience.

• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table for outdoor dining and gathering. Some sites even feature covered picnic tables.

• Fire Rings/Grills: Campers can expect fire rings or grills at their sites, allowing for traditional campfires (always check for burn bans) and outdoor cooking.

• Boat Ramp: A major service for anglers and boaters, the park features a boat launch ramp, providing direct access to the Arkansas River.

• Playground: For families with children, a playground is available, offering a safe and fun area for kids to expend some energy.

• Group Picnic Shelters: Three reservable group picnic shelters are available for day use, ideal for family reunions, gatherings, or larger groups. Some of these shelters also have electric hookups.

• On-Site Camp Hosts: Reviews frequently highlight the presence of friendly and helpful camp hosts who make regular rounds and are available to assist campers, contributing to a safe and pleasant environment.

• Pet-Friendly (with restrictions): While pets are generally allowed, they must be on a leash, and pet owners are expected to clean up after them. Specific rules might apply, so always confirm.

These services collectively ensure that Willow Beach provides a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience for a wide range of visitors.

Willow Beach Recreation Area & Campground boasts several distinctive features and highlights that make it a compelling choice for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly those in Arkansas.

• Riverside Location on the Arkansas River: The most prominent feature is its direct access to the Arkansas River. This offers stunning waterfront views from many campsites, the soothing sounds of flowing water, and unparalleled opportunities for river-based recreation. Being on the "old" Arkansas River channel also adds a historical dimension, as this was part of the original water route during the Trail of Tears.

• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: Anglers consider Willow Beach a prime spot. The waters around the David D. Terry Lock and Dam, including the old river cutoffs and tail-waters, are well-stocked with various species, including largemouth bass, catfish, crappie, and bream. The boat ramp provides easy access for those with boats, while bank fishing is possible (though awareness of local wildlife, including snakes, is recommended).

• Peaceful and Well-Maintained Environment: Consistently praised in reviews, the campground offers a quiet and peaceful atmosphere. Visitors frequently commend the cleanliness and well-taken-care-of nature of the campsites and facilities. The staff and camp hosts are noted for their diligence in maintaining the park, contributing to a pleasant stay.

• Proximity to Little Rock Attractions: Its location just minutes from Little Rock is a significant highlight. This allows campers to easily combine their outdoor adventure with visits to the state capital's museums, restaurants, and historical sites, offering a diverse vacation experience.

• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The forested riverfront area is home to various wildlife, including red fox, deer, and armadillo, as well as numerous species of waterfowl. This provides excellent opportunities for nature photography and observation.

• Family-Friendly Amenities: With a playground on-site and spacious, well-maintained sites, the campground is very accommodating for families with children, providing space for play and comfortable camping.

• Year-Round Operation: Unlike some seasonal campgrounds, Willow Beach is open year-round, allowing Arkansans to enjoy its amenities across all seasons, from the mild winters to the vibrant springs and colorful autumns.

These highlights collectively paint a picture of a versatile and appealing campground that caters to both relaxation and active outdoor pursuits.

As a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE) campground, Willow Beach Recreation Area & Campground primarily operates under standard federal recreation fees. While you won't typically find "promotions" in the commercial sense (like holiday sales or loyalty programs), there are consistent discounts available for eligible individuals that are worth noting.

The standard campsite fee is around $19 per night for sites with electric and water hookups. Group shelters are typically priced around $50-$60.

The main "special offers" come in the form of federal recreation passes:

• America the Beautiful Annual Pass: For a flat fee, this pass grants access to national parks and federal recreational lands nationwide. While it primarily covers entrance fees, holders of certain versions of this pass (like the Senior Pass or Access Pass) receive a 50% discount on standard amenity fees, which includes camping at many COE campgrounds like Willow Beach.

• Senior Pass: U.S. citizens and permanent residents aged 62 or over can purchase a lifetime or annual Senior Pass, which provides a 50% discount on camping fees.

• Access Pass: U.S. citizens and permanent residents with permanent disabilities can obtain a free Access Pass, which also provides a 50% discount on camping fees.

• Military Annual Pass / Lifetime Military Pass: Free passes are available for current U.S. military personnel and veterans, which also provide discounts on camping fees.

These passes offer substantial savings for frequent campers and eligible individuals. For the most accurate and up-to-date information on fees, availability, and specific discount qualifications, it is always recommended to check the official Recreation.gov website or contact Willow Beach directly. Reservations are generally made through Recreation.gov.

For reservations, inquiries about current conditions, or any specific questions regarding Willow Beach Recreation Area & Campground, you can use the following contact details:

• Address: 11690 Willow Beach Rd, Scott, AR 72142, USA

• Phone: (501) 961-1332

• Mobile Phone: +1 501-961-1332

While you can call the campground directly, reservations for COE campgrounds are typically made through Recreation.gov. It's advisable to check the website for availability, especially during peak seasons or holidays, and to review any important alerts or advisories (such as burn bans or river conditions) before your visit.

For Arkansans, Willow Beach Recreation Area & Campground presents an exceptional opportunity to experience the natural beauty and recreational richness of our state without venturing too far from home. Its suitability for locals is multifaceted, combining convenience, comfort, and direct access to quintessential Arkansas outdoor activities.

Firstly, its prime location just minutes from Little Rock is a significant advantage. For weekend getaways or even spontaneous overnight trips, the short travel time means more hours dedicated to enjoyment and less to the road. This accessibility makes it a practical choice for families, individuals, and retirees across Central Arkansas looking for a quick escape into nature without sacrificing the convenience of nearby urban amenities if needed.

Secondly, being a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers campground, Willow Beach is consistently well-maintained, offering clean facilities and reliable services like electric and water hookups. This level of care ensures a comfortable and hassle-free camping experience, which is especially appealing for those with RVs or families seeking a clean and safe environment. The positive reviews highlighting the cleanliness and peaceful atmosphere speak volumes about the quality of the park.

Moreover, the abundance of recreational opportunities directly available at the campground caters perfectly to Arkansas's outdoor culture. Whether you're an avid fisherman eager to drop a line in the Arkansas River, a boater ready to launch from the convenient ramp, or a family wanting a serene spot for picnicking and playground fun, Willow Beach delivers. While one reviewer noted the presence of water moccasins (a natural part of river ecosystems in Arkansas), this is a common awareness point for anyone enjoying our state's waterways, and responsible observation allows for safe enjoyment. The focus on river activities means it's a perfect fit for those who love to be on or by the water.

In essence, Willow Beach Recreation Area & Campground is a testament to Arkansas's commitment to providing quality outdoor recreation. It offers a peaceful, well-equipped, and conveniently located retreat that truly embodies the spirit of our Natural State. For your next camping trip, consider Willow Beach – it's a slice of Arkansas paradise, right in your backyard.