Sunlight Bay

4.30

71 reviews

12394 Sunlight Bay Road, Plainview, AR, 72857, USA

Summer Destination

Quick Facts

387 ft

Price

$22 - $60/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

29 campsites

Season

Open from March 1 to...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Recreation.gov site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

387 ft

Price

$22 - $60/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

29 campsites

Season

Open from March 1 to...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Recreation.gov site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Sunlight Bay

$22.00 - $60.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Fees vary by season and site type. Standard Electric sites range from $22 to $48 per night; Group Shelter Electric is $60 per night. Fees exclude...

Standard Site Fee$22.00

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

479-272-4234

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What Campers Say

4.30

Satisfactory

Based on 71 reviews

Most mentioned

peacefulcleanfriendly

"Reviews for Sunlight Bay Campground range from highly positive to mixed, with consistent praise for the cleanliness of facilities and the friendliness of campground hosts. Complaints often focus on site-specific issues like tree placement, wasps, and water hookups."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

12394 Sunlight Bay Road, Plainview, AR, 72857, USA

Sunlight Bay

12394 Sunlight Bay Road, Plainview, AR, 72857, USA

Driving directionsFrom Plainview, Arkansas, take Highway 28 west for a quarter mile, then follow signs to the campground.

The campground is accessible via Highway 28 west. However, user reviews warn about potential navigation issues using GPS applications like Waze, which may direct drivers onto a rough dirt road instead of the paved road. One review stated, 'Do not go down the dirt road with your rig. The site was blown off sort of.'

Nearby places

Plainview (approximately 1 mile), Dardanelle (approximately 25 miles)

Nearby supplies

Supplies can be picked up in Plainview, Arkansas, which is described as 'close enough to pick up any forgotten items.' Major provisions may require travel to Dardanelle.

Best Time to Camp at Sunlight Bay

Mother Nature paints Sunlight Bay with an ever-changing palette throughout the year. From sun-drenched summer days that beckon swimmers to the lake's refreshing waters, to crisp autumn mornings when mist rises from the surface like nature's breath, each season brings its own magic. Spring occasionally tests the landscape with generous rains and rising waters, while comfortable temperatures typically range from the low 40s to mid-60s°F. With clear skies gracing the area nearly 60% of the time, stargazers and sunrise seekers will find plenty of opportunities to connect with the heavens above.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.0 / 5

Active boating/fishing in summer but heat and wasp complaints lower comfort.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall reviews note pleasant weather and strong fishing opportunities.

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Open starting Mar 1 with good fishing and pleasant spring conditions reported.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Campground closed Dec–Feb; seasonal closure prevents winter stays.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: March 1, 2025 - October 31, 2025. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open from March 1 to November 30, with reservations starting June 21 during peak season.

About Sunlight Bay

Nestled along the tranquil shores of Nimrod Lake, where the Fourche Lafave River weaves its ancient path, Sunlight Bay Campground offers an escape into nature's embrace. With 29 generously sized campsites spread across the waterfront, this hidden gem invites anglers to cast their lines at dawn, boaters to explore hidden coves, and wildlife enthusiasts to witness the daily parade of native creatures. A spacious group picnic shelter stands ready to host family reunions and gatherings, where laughter mingles with the gentle lapping of waves against the shore.

Sunlight Bay Campground offers a mix of camping accommodations, including standard electric campsites and a day-use group shelter.

Historical SignificanceBorn from necessity in 1942, the Nimrod Dam stands as a testament to human ingenuity and nature's resilience. What began as a crucial flood control project has transformed over eight decades into a beloved recreational sanctuary. The dam's steadfast presence not only tamed the once-unpredictable waters but created a haven where generations of families have cast their first fishing lines, learned to swim, and discovered the simple joy of campfire stories under starlit skies.

Weather and SeasonsMother Nature paints Sunlight Bay with an ever-changing palette throughout the year. From sun-drenched summer days that beckon swimmers to the lake's refreshing waters, to crisp autumn mornings when mist rises from the surface like nature's breath, each season brings its own magic. Spring occasionally tests the landscape with generous rains and rising waters, while comfortable temperatures typically range from the low 40s to mid-60s°F. With clear skies gracing the area nearly 60% of the time, stargazers and sunrise seekers will find plenty of opportunities to connect with the heavens above.

ElevationElevation information not provided.

Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to the gentle splash of a bass breaking the morning surface, as sunlight filters through ancient hardwoods surrounding your campsite. Sunlight Bay rests within an impressive 21,000-acre natural playground, where the landscape tells stories of wild Arkansas. White-tailed deer emerge from forest shadows at dusk, wild turkeys strut through meadows with prehistoric dignity, and the occasional black bear reminder keeps campers mindful of proper food storage. The waters of Nimrod Lake stretch before you like a liquid highway to adventure, while the surrounding forests offer seasonal hunting opportunities for those seeking a more primal connection to the land.

Geological RegionSunlight Bay occupies a privileged position in Arkansas's geographical crown jewel—the meeting place where the ancient Ouachita and Ozark Mountains nearly touch hands across the valley. This unique location along Nimrod Lake and the Fourche Lafave River creates a diverse ecosystem where mountain streams feed into gentle lake waters, and where the geological stories of two distinct mountain ranges converge. The result is a landscape of remarkable beauty and ecological diversity, where campers can experience the best of Arkansas's natural heritage in one extraordinary setting.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

3:00 PM

Check-out

1:00 PM

Stay Limit

Maximum stay limit is up to 28 consecutive nights during peak season, and up to 42 nights total within rolling 60 days all year.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Two tents or one RV and one tent allowed per campsite.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSunlight Bay Campground includes 29 individual campsites and one group-use shelter. Sites vary in shade, size, and accessibility.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov and its affiliated contact center.

Walk-in AvailabilityInformation on first-come, first-served availability is not explicitly provided.

Cancellation PolicyIndividual sites allow cancellations any time before the scheduled arrival date with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations (starting one calendar day before arrival) forfeit the first night's recreation fee. Group facilities have stricter cancellation policies.

AccessibilityThe campground accommodates disabled visitors, with one user noting the convenience of being "straight across from the bath/shower." - Review by Debbie M, 10/21/2020.

Site SizeMixed sizes—some users reported sites being too short for larger rigs.

PrivacyVaried; some sites offer full shade and privacy while others feel crowded. "Camp is very secluded." - Review by Heather R, 7/19/2020.

Total Campsites29 campsites

Recommended SitesSite #16 was appreciated for its covered picnic table but criticized for being too crowded. Site #2 has tree hazards impacting campers. Sites with full shade are preferred but may limit backing options.

Amenities available

Showers

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Activities you can enjoy

Sunlight Bay Campground offers a variety of outdoor activities including fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. While swimming is not available, campers often enjoy kayaking and exploring nearby hiking and biking trails.

FishingFishing is a popular activity, with an abundance of catfish, bluegill, bass, and crappie available. "Good spot for fishermen." - Review by Bruce T, 8/12/2020.

BoatingTwo boat ramps are provided, and boating activities such as water skiing and tubing are popular in specific areas of the lake.

Wildlife viewingCampers report sightings of white-tailed deer, eastern wild turkey, foxes, and other wildlife.

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsUser reviews highlight challenges such as wasp infestations, damaged trees at specific sites (e.g., site #2), flooding, and chiggers.

Fire PolicyReviews and official sources indicate firewood must be purchased locally, but additional details on fire policies are not provided.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are not explicitly stated, but user reviews mention noise issues past 10 PM.

Emergency ServicesThe nearest emergency services are likely located in Plainview, AR, but explicit details regarding distances to hospitals or police stations are not provided. Ranger station proximity is also not mentioned.

Trash & RecyclingUsers note occasional issues with trash buildup, particularly in the boat ramp area which "needs to be cleaned...covered with an inch of silt." - Review by David H, 10/18/2020.

Water FeaturesThe campground sits along Nimrod Lake and Wilson Slough. Fishing is popular, but swimming facilities are not available.

Camp HostHosts receive overwhelmingly positive feedback for their helpfulness. Quotes include: 'Jim Miller is one of the finest gate attendants I have ever met' and 'Hosts were very friendly and helpful!'

Weather at Sunlight Bay

Reviews

4.3

71 reviews

Satisfactory

Sunlight Bay is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

Reviews for Sunlight Bay Campground range from highly positive to mixed, with consistent praise for the cleanliness of facilities and the friendliness of campground hosts. Complaints often focus on site-specific issues like tree placement, wasps, and water hookups.

Review Summaries

Based on 71 reviews

What Campers Love

Friendly hosts, clean bathrooms, peaceful camping environment, and strong appeal to fishermen. "Jim went above and beyond to be the most caring attendant ever." - Review by Susan B, 7/16/2021.

Based on 71 reviews

Common Concerns

Wasps, occasional noise issues, and specific site challenges such as difficult parking or crowded setups. "Wasp spray the wasps are horrible." - Review by William F, 4/4/2021.

Based on 71 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring extra water hoses as faucets can be far from hookups, avoid the dirt road when arriving, and choose sites carefully based on individual needs. "Do not go down the dirt road with your rig." -...

Based on 71 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews frequently mention heat and wasp issues, while fall feedback highlights pleasant weather and fishing opportunities. Flooding impact was noted in some reviews.

Based on 71 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Wonderful park. Clean, quiet and up-to-date campsites." - Review by Jimmy B, 9/21/2021; "Staff was good. Some sites are large." - Review by Bruce T, 8/12/2020.

Based on 71 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #2 has tree placement issues causing damage to campers. Site #16 praised for covered picnic table but criticized for crowded setup. Site #01 noted for chiggers and distance to water hookup.

Based on 71 reviews

Accessibility Features

Positive feedback from disabled users who appreciated proximity to restrooms. "Great for older people, no swimming, close to town." - Review by Steve Y, 9/14/2021.

Based on 71 reviews

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