Starkey Campground
4.2075 reviews4022 Mundell Road, Eureka Springs, AR, 72631, USA
Starkey Campground
$22.00 - $75.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$22.00
Hookup Site Fee$28.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$75.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Standard Electric sites range from $22.00 to $28.00 per night during the peak season. Group Shelter Electric sites cost $75.00. Additional fees may apply for reservations, changes, or cancellations.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shores of Beaver Lake in the heart of the Ozark Mountains, Starkey Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of natural beauty and adventure. Here, spacious campsites rest beneath a canopy of ancient trees, while towering limestone bluffs create a dramatic backdrop for your wilderness escape. Whether you're casting a line into the crystal-clear waters, launching your boat for a day of exploration, hitting the scenic hiking trails, or simply watching eagles soar overhead, this mountain sanctuary offers endless opportunities to reconnect with nature.
Starkey Campground accommodates both RVs and tent camping, with some group shelter options available.
Historical SignificanceBorn from the ambitious White River Basin project, Beaver Lake emerged in 1966 as a testament to human ingenuity and nature's resilience. What began as a vital flood control and hydroelectric power initiative has blossomed into one of the Ozarks' most beloved recreational treasures. Today, the lake that once tamed the White River now draws families, anglers, and adventurers from across the country, transforming from industrial necessity into natural sanctuary where countless stories unfold each season.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Starkey Campground into a vibrant outdoor playground, where warm days invite swimming and water sports while cool mountain evenings are perfect for campfire gatherings. The temperate Ozark climate brings refreshing breezes off the lake, occasional summer thunderstorms that water the lush forest, and those perfect sunny days that make memories. While the campground shines brightest during the summer season, each visit offers its own unique charm as nature's moods shift across the mountains.
ElevationPerched dramatically on the steep slopes of the ancient Ozark Mountains, Starkey Campground offers campers a true mountain experience. The challenging terrain rewards visitors with breathtaking vantage points and creates a sense of adventure from the moment you arrive. Each campsite is thoughtfully carved into the mountainside, providing both privacy and spectacular views of the surrounding wilderness.
Natural Features and SceneryAncient limestone bluffs rise majestically from the shoreline, their weathered faces telling stories millions of years in the making. Hidden caves dot the landscape, inviting exploration and wonder, while the surrounding hardwood forests burst with seasonal color—from spring's delicate dogwood blossoms to autumn's fiery maple displays. Flowering shrubs carpet the forest floor, creating a tapestry of native beauty. This rich ecosystem supports an impressive array of wildlife: white-tailed deer browse at dawn, curious armadillos rustle through the underbrush, and majestic bald eagles patrol the skies above the lake's surface.
Geological RegionStarkey Campground claims its place in the rugged Ozark Mountains of Northwest Arkansas, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of remarkable beauty. Dramatic limestone bluffs, carved by eons of wind and water, frame the campground while mysterious caves hint at the hidden wonders beneath. The surrounding forest showcases nature's diversity with its harmonious blend of stately hardwoods and evergreen sentinels. All of this natural splendor embraces Beaver Lake's impressive 449 miles of shoreline, creating countless secret coves, peaceful inlets, and scenic vistas that make every visit an adventure in discovery.
Campsite details
AccessibilityInformation on accessibility features is not explicitly detailed.
Sites SizeSite sizes vary, with several users commenting on narrow and short pads. Some sites are spacious and shaded, while others are steep and difficult to level.
Sites PrivacySite privacy varies across the campground, with some sites offering seclusion and shade, while others are exposed and close to roadways.
Total Campsites23 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites #1-7 provide full hookups but are far from the water. Site #22 is closest to the lake but lacks full hookups. Sites higher up are shaded but require leveling.
Best CampsitesFull hookup sites (#1-7) are frequently highlighted for convenience. Site #22 is noted for proximity to the lake.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
4:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Campsites can accommodate one RV and one tent, or three tents.
Groups
Group shelter electric sites are available, with a nightly rate of $75 during peak season.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are described as unlevel, narrow, and steep, with a mix of RV and tent-friendly options. Full hookups are on higher ground away from the lake.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open for reservations from May 1 to September 14, with peak season pricing during this time. Closed after September 15.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot explicitly mentioned in the source material.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled at any time before the arrival date with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations incur additional fees, including forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Starkey Campground offers a variety of recreational activities, including fishing, hiking, biking, boating, swimming, and wildlife viewing. Its proximity to Beaver Lake enhances opportunities for water-related activities.
Hiking
Several trails throughout the Ozark Mountains provide peaceful hiking opportunities. Specific trail lengths and difficulties are not described.Fishing
Fishing is highly popular, with species like bass, crappie, and catfish available. Below Beaver Dam, trout fishing is particularly notable.Swimming
Swimming is possible, but there is no designated swimming area. One reviewer said, 'No official swimming area, but a small cove protects from some of the boat traffic.'Biking
The surrounding trails offer biking opportunities, but specific details on trail terrain and difficulty are not provided.Boating
Boating is supported, with facilities for launching boats and proximity to Starkey Marina for rentals and supplies.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife is abundant, including deer, armadillos, and bald eagles. A reviewer noted watching over 40 deer in four days.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are possible, but the rocky shoreline makes access challenging.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire pits are available at campsites, but firewood must be sourced locally to avoid invasive pests.
- Quiet hours are mentioned but not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsRoads leading to the campground are steep and narrow. User reviews mention challenges with steep terrain, unlevel sites, and rocky ground impacting tent camping.
Active alertsNo active alerts were provided.
Weather forecast
66
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 83%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 2.4 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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 were not specified in the provided data; proximity to Eureka Springs suggests the nearest medical facilities are located there.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 01, 2025 - September 14, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are present but reportedly not consistently maintained, with complaints about overflowing dumpsters.
Proximity to water featuresSteps away from Beaver Lake shore. Users mention rocky beaches and no officially designated swimming areas.
Common complaintsFrequent user complaints include unlevel sites, poor bathroom facilities, steep roads, narrow and difficult-to-access campsites, and voltage issues at hookup sites.
HostHosts are described as friendly and helpful. Contact information: Phyllis and Gary, noted in a user review.
Campground Map
4022 Mundell Road, Eureka Springs, AR, 72631, USA
Driving directionsFrom Rogers, Arkansas, take Highway 62 east for approximately 28 miles. Turn right onto Highway 187 towards Beaver Dam and travel 5.5 miles. Turn right onto Mundell Road and follow it 3.9 miles to the campground.
Roads leading to the campground are described as narrow, curvy, and with low-hanging branches. Several user reviews mention difficulties in accessing the campground without GPS guidance due to limited signage, particularly from Rogers. Roads are steep at times and require caution.Nearby places
Rogers (~28 miles)
Eureka Springs (~20 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Several marinas located around Beaver Lake offer groceries, fuel, boat rentals, fishing guides, and camping supplies. Starkey Marina is mentioned within user reviews as being close by for convenience.
Camper Reviews
4.2
75 reviews
Starkey Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Starkey Campground highlight its scenic beauty and wildlife but frequently criticize its facilities, steep terrain, and unlevel sites.
Review Summaries
Based on 75 reviews
What Campers Love
Campground praised for being quiet and peaceful, abundant wildlife, proximity to Beaver Lake, and scenic beauty. 'We love it here. Have been coming to Beaver Lake, the Starkey area, since 1969.'
Based on 75 reviewsCommon Concerns
Frequent complaints about unlevel sites, outdated and poorly maintained bathrooms, narrow and steep pads, and issues with electrical hookups. 'Camp sites are falling apart literally. Paved surfaces...
Based on 75 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring leveling equipment for RVs, floor padding for tents, and additional water containers. Avoid certain sites like #20 and #1 due to leveling issues. Visit Starkey Marina for supplies.
Based on 75 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews are generally positive, highlighting quiet and peaceful experiences. Fall camping is limited due to the campground closing on September 15th, disappointing users seeking autumn stays.
Based on 75 reviewsCamper Quotes
1) 'Our grandkids didn’t want to leave (or us, either). We’ll be back.' 2) 'Bathrooms were horrific.' 3) 'The marina is great, with Hunts pizza drawing a crowd.'
Based on 75 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site #1: Difficult to level and exposed to the road. Site #7: Voltage issues with 30A service. Site #22: Closest to the lake and ideal for tent setups. Site #20: Steep and narrow pad, difficult to...
Based on 75 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features are not explicitly detailed in reviews.
Based on 75 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed at all times. Wildlife in the area includes deer, which frequently visit campsites.
Based on 75 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025