Beard'S Lake Park
4.5823 reviews187 River Run East Rd, Saratoga, AR 71859
Beard'S Lake Park
$10.00 - $23.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$23.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary by season and site type: $23 for Standard Electric sites and $10 for Tent-Only Nonelectric sites during both peak and non-peak seasons.
About this campground
Tucked away from the crowds, Beard's Lake Park beckons those seeking solitude and authentic outdoor experiences. This hidden gem invites anglers to cast their lines into waters rich with submerged timber, where fish lurk beneath the surface. Duck hunters find their paradise here during migration seasons, while nature enthusiasts discover a sanctuary where wildlife roams freely across diverse habitats. Whether you're watching the morning mist rise over the lake or enjoying the symphony of evening crickets, this tranquil campground offers a genuine escape into Arkansas's natural beauty.
Beard's Lake Park offers a mix of camping options, including paved campsites for RVs with electrical and water hookups, as well as tent-only non-electric sites. Group camping and luxury 'glamping' options are not available, emphasizing a more traditional camping experience.
Weather and SeasonsSpring and fall transform Beard's Lake Park into an outdoor haven, with comfortable temperatures and crystalline skies that make every camping moment memorable. These seasons bring perfect conditions for fishing, hiking, and wildlife watching. Summer visitors should come prepared for humid conditions and pack insect repellent to ward off gnats, though early mornings and evenings offer respite with cooler breezes off the water. Winter brings a special kind of magic to the park, with fewer crowds and a serene atmosphere that appeals to those seeking true solitude in nature.
ElevationNo elevation data provided.
Natural Features and SceneryBeard's Lake unfolds like a natural masterpiece, its waters reflecting the surrounding tapestry of open meadows, mysterious swampy grasslands, and dense hardwood forests. This oxbow lake, carved by time and the nearby Little River, creates an aquatic wonderland enhanced by its position below Millwood Dam. Ancient trees stand sentinel along the shoreline, their branches creating natural cathedral ceilings over hiking paths. The interplay of water, wetlands, and forest creates a photographer's dream and a naturalist's classroom, where every visit reveals new discoveries.
Geological RegionNestled in the heart of Southern Arkansas, Beard's Lake Park showcases the region's remarkable ecological diversity. This landscape tells the story of ancient rivers and changing waterways, where the oxbow lake stands as a testament to the Little River's meandering past. The area below Millwood Dam has created a unique freshwater ecosystem where open prairies meet mysterious swamp forests, and towering hardwoods shelter an abundance of wildlife. This convergence of habitats makes the campground a living museum of Southern Arkansas's natural heritage, offering visitors a chance to experience multiple ecosystems within a single destination.
Campsite details
AccessibilityBeard's Lake Park includes accessible facilities such as ramps, picnic shelters, walkways, fishing docks, parking, scenic overlooks, trails, and campsites, ensuring inclusivity for visitors with disabilities.
Sites SizeThe campground features standard-sized paved campsites with adequate room for camping setups. Specific dimensions are not provided.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites are well-spaced, offering a good degree of privacy. One user noted, 'Lots of room between sites and privacy abounds.'
Total Campsites8 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites near the water are favored for views and proximity to fishing. Campsite #6 is specifically praised for being at the water's edge.
Best CampsitesCampsite #6 is noted for its prime waterfront location. Campsites #2 and #4 are also highly rated.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay limit is 28 nights within 30 days.
Groups
This campground does not offer group camping sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Open and Closed SeasonOpen March 1 through December 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov website or app.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability is not explicitly mentioned.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made anytime before arrival date with a $10 fee, and late cancellations incur a fee equal to the first night's cost. No-show fees are $20 plus cost of the first night.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Dump station
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Beard's Lake Park offers a recreational haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with activities such as fishing, duck hunting, and relaxing in its serene environment. The park also features a boat ramp, fishing docks, and a fishing pier, making it a prime destination for anglers. Wildlife viewing, birding, and hiking along nearby paths provide additional leisure options. Notably, Millwood Lake, which encompasses Beard's Lake, is renowned for its abundant fish habitat supported by submerged timber.
Fishing
Fishing is one of the top attractions at Beard's Lake Park. The lake provides habitats for a variety of fish, including crappie, largemouth bass, white striped bass, spotted bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, bluegill, sunfish, buffalo carp, and drum. Millwood Lake's 20,000 acres of submerged timber enhance the fishing experience. One user stated, 'Beard's Lake was fun to fish, and yes, there are alligators in the lake.'Boating
The park features a boat ramp and provides opportunities for boating activities, although details regarding boat types, rentals, or docking facilities are not specified.Wildlife viewing
The park offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing due to its diverse ecosystems, including open fields, swampy grasslands, and thick hardwood forests. Visitors have reported sightings such as alligators in the lake.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not specifically mentioned, though the presence of a boat ramp suggests possible activities like kayaking or canoeing.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted in designated rings.
Hazards
General hazardsAlligators are present in Beard's Lake and nearby water bodies. User reviews also mention biting insects and tall grass in warmer months.
Weather forecast
73
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 69%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 8.2 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are not specifically listed, but the nearest city, Ashdown, may provide hospitals and police services.
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch 1, 2025 - October 31, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling policies were not specified, but the park encourages proper disposal to mitigate wildlife interactions and maintain cleanliness.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on Beard's Lake with access to a fishing pier, boat ramp, and dock.
Common complaintsComplaints include unclean/restrooms needing TLC, biting insects, and tall grass. Some reviewers noted that bathrooms were hot and lacked fans.
HostHosts Jeff and Sherri are frequently praised in user reviews for their hospitality and helpfulness.
Campground Map
187 River Run East Rd, Saratoga, AR 71859
Driving directionsBeard's Lake Park is located off of River Run East access on Highway 32 E, approximately 12 miles northeast of Ashdown, in southwest Arkansas.
The campground is accessible via paved roads, but it is noted in user reviews as being remote with no nearby stores.Nearby places
Ashdown, AR (12 miles), Nashville, AR (39 miles), Texarkana, TX (approximately 40 miles).
Nearby supplies
No stores are noted nearby per user reviews. Supplies may need to be obtained in Ashdown or nearby cities.
Camper Reviews
4.6
23 reviews
Beard'S Lake Park is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, Beard's Lake Park receives positive feedback for its peaceful ambiance, excellent fishing opportunities, and scenic sunsets. Users appreciate the cleanliness of the campsites and the friendliness of the camp hosts. However, some reviews point out issues with restroom cleanliness, hot restroom interiors, and occasional maintenance oversights, like tall grass.
Review Summaries
Based on 23 reviews
What Campers Love
Key highlights include the serene atmosphere, 'amazing sunsets,' 'great fishing,' and the friendly and helpful camp hosts. The availability of water and electricity at campsites is also appreciated.
Based on 23 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints focus on restroom cleanliness and maintenance, hot interiors of restrooms, and the lack of swimming areas despite contrary online information. Some users also mentioned the presence...
Based on 23 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Travelers recommend bringing fans to address hot restrooms, adhering to leash rules for pets, and being cautious of alligators in the lake. They also suggest visiting Beard's Bluff Park for showers.
Based on 23 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Beard's Lake Park is described as peaceful and well-maintained during the summer and fall, with occasional issues such as biting pests during warmer months. Winter visits are quieter and ideal for...
Based on 23 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- 'Sunsets on the lake are seriously worth every penny.' - 'The water for your rig is clean, clear, and tastes very good.' - 'First night, we got to see gators and meteor showers, all within 30...
Based on 23 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific campsites like Site #6 are noted for being right on the water's edge and offering stunning views. Sites are generally described as private and spacious.
Based on 23 reviewsAccessibility Features
The park's accessible features, including ramps and walkways, make it a welcoming destination for visitors with disabilities.
Based on 23 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome, and many visitors bring their dogs, noting a friendly pet atmosphere. However, leash rules are emphasized, and caution with wildlife is advised.
Based on 23 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025