Horseshoe Bend (Dierks Lake)

Star4.35
42 reviews
246 Jefferson Ridge Road

Quick Facts

666 ft

Price

$18 - $25/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

12 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens U.S. Army Corps of Engineers site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Horseshoe Bend (Dierks Lake)
$18.00 - $25.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees range from $18 per night for standard electric sites to $25 per night for shelter electric sites. Additional fees may apply, including...
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Standard Site Fee$18.00
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

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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider
870-286-3214
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What Campers Say

4.35

Recommended

Based on 42 reviews

43 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewsquietpeacefulclean

"User reviews highlight the peaceful setting, scenic views, and excellent facilities, with the proximity to the river being a major draw. However, some users noted issues with cleanliness, water quality, and the lack of cell service."

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Campground Map

246 Jefferson Ridge Road

Horseshoe Bend (Dierks Lake)

246 Jefferson Ridge Road

Driving directionsFrom Dierks, travel toward DeQueen on Hwy 70 for approximately 3 miles. At the brown U.S. Army Corps of Engineers sign, turn right on Dierks Lake road and travel approximately 5 miles. Horseshoe Bend Campground Road is the last road located on the left, before crossing Dierks Lake Dam.
Road is paved and accessible year-round. Located approximately 5 miles from Dierks Lake Dam. Seasonal closures are not indicated.
Nearby places
Dierks (6 miles, ~10 minutes), DeQueen (22 miles, ~30 minutes), Murfreesboro (30 miles, ~45 minutes)
Nearby supplies
City of Dierks (6 miles) provides basic supplies including Dollar General and gas stations. Larger supply options available in DeQueen (22 miles).

Best Time to Camp at Horseshoe Bend (Dierks Lake)

Each season paints Horseshoe Bend in dramatically different hues. Winter wraps the campground in crisp air, with temperatures dancing between 36°F and 51°F, while rain patters on tent flies and occasional snowflakes dust the landscape. Spring awakens the riverbank with perfect camping weather—dry, moderate days that beckon outdoor enthusiasts. Summer brings sultry Southern humidity that drives visitors to the river's edge, where whitewater paddlers find their playground in the rushing rapids. Fall returns with golden light and comfortable temperatures, offering perhaps the finest camping conditions of the year.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Great for kayaking/whitewater in summer but busier; some cleanliness issues reported at peak times.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.5 / 5
Top 24% in AR

Fall popular for moderate weather and vibrant natural scenery; reviewers note seasonal appeal.

Best
Spring(Mar-May)
4.5 / 5
Top 23% in AR

Spring popular for moderate weather, vibrant scenery and paddling opportunities.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
3.0 / 5

Open year-round; winter is quiet and crisp but activity options and services are limited.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: January 1 - December 31. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open January 1 to December 31. Reservations available year-round.

About Horseshoe Bend (Dierks Lake)

Nestled along the banks of the Saline River, Horseshoe Bend Campground at Dierks Lake offers an intimate escape with 12 thoughtfully positioned Class A campsites. Wake up to misty riverfront views and the gentle sound of flowing water, while children play on the nearby playground and families gather under the picnic shelter. Modern shower facilities ensure comfort meets wilderness, creating the perfect basecamp for paddlers chasing rapids or travelers seeking tranquil riverside evenings. When the kayakers head home after peak season, the campground transforms into a serene retreat where the river's whispers become your evening soundtrack.
Horseshoe Bend campground offers 12 Class A sites suitable for both RV and tent camping. The campground is designed to accommodate a range of campers and includes essential amenities like water and electricity hookups.
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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit
  • Maximum 28 nights during a single visit
  • 28 nights total within rolling 30 days.

Amenities available

Showers
Potable water
Electricity hookups
Flush toilets
Dump station
Fire rings

Activities you can enjoy

Horseshoe Bend offers a range of recreational activities, with particular emphasis on paddling and whitewater rafting. The aquatic park features multiple rapids rated from Class II to Class IV, making it a popular spot for kayakers. Additional activities include fishing, hiking, and picnicking.
FishingFishing is a popular activity at the campground, especially below the dam and along the Saline River. However, one user noted, 'Some people were fishing below the dam and in the river but were not catching many fish.'
BoatingThe campground is an excellent location for paddling and kayaking. The whitewater park includes a course with several challenging drops, making it ideal for training and recreational use.
Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing opportunities are good in the area, though specific species are not mentioned.
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsStrong undercurrents in the Saline River make swimming unsafe. Wildlife encounters are possible.

Weather at Horseshoe Bend (Dierks Lake)

Reviews

4.4
42 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Horseshoe Bend (Dierks Lake) is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the peaceful setting, scenic views, and excellent facilities, with the proximity to the river being a major draw. However, some users noted issues with cleanliness, water quality, and the lack of cell service.
Review Summaries
Based on 42 reviews

What Campers Love

- Scenic views and proximity to the Saline River - Quiet and peaceful atmosphere - Spacious campsites with good amenities like water and electric hookups - Clean restrooms and showers (some...
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Based on 42 reviews

Common Concerns

- Cleanliness issues in restrooms and showers, especially during busy periods - Poor cell phone reception - No swimming due to strong undercurrents - Occasional unpleasant odors from the river -...
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Based on 42 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

- Bring alternative means of communication as cell service is unreliable. - Reserve sites in advance through Recreation.gov as the campground is not easy to find. - Visit nearby attractions such as...
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Based on 42 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and fall are popular seasons due to moderate weather and vibrant natural scenery. Summer may be busy with kayakers taking advantage of the rapids. Winter reviews highlight the campground's...
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Based on 42 reviews

Camper Quotes

- 'Beautiful place by the river! It was very peaceful at night.' - 'Each site has its own water and electricity and also includes a BBQ grill, picnic table, fire pit.' - 'No swimming due to the...
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Based on 42 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Sites offer scenic views, especially those close to the river. The campground design accommodates RVs well, with pull-through setups. Tent campers noted challenges with vehicle positioning. Specific...
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Based on 42 reviews

Accessibility Features

The wheelchair-accessible restrooms and showers were appreciated, though more detailed feedback on accessible pathways and features is lacking.
Based on 42 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are welcome, and the area offers plenty of space for walking dogs. No specific complaints or praises regarding pet policies were noted.
Based on 42 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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