Cove Lake Recreation Area
4.5765 reviews19 COVE LAKE LOOP, PARIS, AR 72855, USA
Cove Lake Recreation Area
$15.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
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
Standard non-electric campsites are available for $15 per night, and group shelters with electricity cost $35 per night. Fees do not include reservation fees, taxes, or potential discounts.
About this campground
Nestled alongside a pristine 160-acre mountain lake, Cove Lake Recreation Area beckons outdoor enthusiasts to discover one of Arkansas's most cherished summer retreats. This scenic campground seamlessly blends modern camping amenities with natural splendor, where families gather to cast fishing lines at dawn, splash in crystal-clear waters under the afternoon sun, and explore winding forest trails. Whether you're setting up a tent beneath towering trees or parking your RV with panoramic lake views, Cove Lake offers an authentic Arkansas outdoor experience where memories are made around campfires and adventures begin with each sunrise.
Cove Lake Recreation Area accommodates tent and RV camping, cabins, and group camping. While hookups are not available, sites offer basic amenities like campfire rings, picnic tables, and grills.
Historical SignificanceWhile Cove Lake's story may not be etched in historical markers, its significance lies in generations of Arkansas families who've made pilgrimages to these shores, creating their own rich tapestry of traditions and memories beneath the Ozark sky.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Cove Lake into a vibrant aquatic playground, though Arkansas humidity wraps the landscape in a warm, tropical embrace that can feel intense during peak afternoon hours. Savvy campers often discover that winter unveils the area's hidden charm—crisp mountain air replaces summer's sultry breath, pesky insects retreat, and hiking trails become inviting pathways through a peaceful, dormant forest. Clear skies dominate most seasons, creating perfect conditions for stargazing and outdoor activities year-round.
ElevationPerched at 2,700 feet near the majestic Mount Magazine, Cove Lake Recreation Area offers a refreshing mountain escape where temperatures drop several degrees from the valley floor below. This elevated sanctuary creates a unique microclimate supporting diverse plant and animal life rarely found at lower elevations, while providing campers with naturally air-conditioned comfort and breathtaking vistas that stretch across the Arkansas highlands.
Natural Features and SceneryA cathedral of mature hardwoods and evergreens frames the sparkling jewel of Cove Lake, where morning mist dances across the water's surface and sunset paints the sky in brilliant hues. The surrounding mixed forest shelters an abundance of wildlife, while the lake itself teems with bass, catfish, and panfish that challenge anglers of all skill levels. Every campsite offers its own natural amphitheater, whether overlooking the serene lake waters or tucked beneath the protective canopy of ancient trees.
Geological RegionSet within the rugged beauty of the Ozark National Forest, Cove Lake Recreation Area showcases the Arkansas River Valley's dramatic landscape where ancient mountains meet pristine waters. This geological wonderland features the characteristic ridges, valleys, and unique rock formations that make the Ozarks legendary among outdoor enthusiasts, while the mature mixed forest provides a living museum of the region's diverse ecosystem.
Campsite details
AccessibilityMultiple accessibility options are available, including accessible flush toilets, vault toilets, parking, picnic shelters, and grills.
Sites SizeUser reviews indicate variability in campsite sizes. Some sites are described as spacious, with one user noting, "Nice big campsites with lake views," while others are smaller, fitting only one large tent.
Sites PrivacyCampground sites are reported as well-spaced, offering privacy. "Spots are spaced out nicely so there's no cramping issues," one user review stated.
Total Campsites20 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSelect lakeside sites for better views and privacy, and avoid sites prone to ant infestations as per reviews.
Best CampsitesUsers have praised sites like #007, #008, and #012 for direct lake access, natural beauty, and spacious layouts.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features spaced-out sites arranged in loops, fostering privacy and lake access.
Open and Closed SeasonJanuary 1 to December 31 annually.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites are available but are not guaranteed, according to official guidance and user reviews.
Cancellation PolicyChanges to reservations cost $10 per change. Cancellations carry a $10 cancellation fee plus forfeiting the first night’s fees for late cancellations (day before arrival). No-shows incur a $20 fee and the first night's fees.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Cove Lake Recreation Area offers a wide range of activities including swimming, fishing, hiking, water skiing, kayaking, canoeing, paddle boating, scenic drives, and miniature golf. Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant, and the area hosts a kids' fishing derby annually.
Hiking
The recreation area includes hiking trails around the lake. User reviews note varied experiences: "Nice hike around the lake that actually goes through the campsite," mentioned one reviewer. However, another user described the trail as poorly maintained: "Their hiking trail next to the lake was grown up and lacking proper maintenance."Fishing
Fishing opportunities at Cove Lake are robust, with species including catfish, largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, and perch. "Huge crappie in lake," noted one review, while another praised the lake's annual stocking program.Swimming
Swimming is available in a designated area of Cove Lake. However, dogs are not permitted in the swimming beach area, as noted by reviewers: "Dogs are not allowed on the beach but are allowed on a leash on the nearby grassy area."Boating
A boat ramp is available, and canoe and paddleboat rentals are provided by an on-site concessionaire. "We pulled our inflatable boat right up to the edge of the site," noted one reviewer.Wildlife viewing
Birdwatching and observing wildlife like elk are notable activities at Cove Lake. "Lots of birds and great sunsets," shared one reviewer.Winter Activities
Winter activities include hiking, which is highly recommended during the winter season as per user reviews.Water Sports
Water sports include kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding, facilitated by equipment rentals available on-site.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated rings and grills provided at each site. Firewood should be sourced locally to prevent pests.
- Quiet hours are listed but enforcement appears inconsistent, based on user reviews.
Hazards
General hazardsSome user reviews mention ticks, fire ants, broken glass, and nails on sites as potential hazards.
Weather forecast
67
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 92%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 5.5 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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 explicitly listed, and users indicated poor cell reception, meaning emergency access may be challenging.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 to December 31.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection services are available, as noted in authoritative sources, but recycling details are absent.
Proximity to water featuresLakefront sites are adjacent to Cove Lake, which is stocked with fish and features a swimming beach.
Common complaintsNoise complaints due to lack of quiet hour enforcement. Some sites reportedly suffer from ant infestations and lack of cleanliness.
HostReviews describe hosts as helpful and friendly, although some negative experiences were noted around the locked gate policy and maintenance challenges.
Campground Map
19 COVE LAKE LOOP, PARIS, AR 72855, USA
Driving directionsFrom Paris, take Highway 109 south, then turn southeast on Highway 309 for 9 miles.
Access roads are paved and well-maintained, though the campground gates are locked after 10 PM, which can pose challenges during emergencies, as noted in user reviews.Nearby places
Paris, AR - 15 miles
Havana, AR - 10 miles
Nearby supplies
A small store is reportedly located about a mile away, as per user reviews mentioning proximity to Mount Magazine.
Camper Reviews
4.6
65 reviews
Cove Lake Recreation Area is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight a mixture of positive and negative experiences. Common themes include scenic lake views, spacious campsites, and clean facilities. However, complaints range from excessive ant infestations to inconsistent enforcement of quiet hours. Some users praise the campground staff for being helpful and attentive during emergencies.
Review Summaries
Based on 65 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently mention the campground's beautiful setting by the lake, clean facilities, and peaceful atmosphere. "A family-friendly atmosphere with clean areas and facilities," stated one...
Based on 65 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include ant infestation, noise during quiet hours, and maintenance issues like poor trail upkeep and lack of toilet paper in vault toilets. "Sites are overrun with ants. Fire ants...
Based on 65 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring insect repellent and noise-canceling earplugs for a more comfortable stay. Prepare for limited cell service and bring all necessary provisions due to the campground's remote location.
Based on 65 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Peak season reviews highlight overcrowding at swimming areas and ant infestations. Off-season reviews emphasize the peaceful atmosphere and scenic beauty, but note the lack of available water and...
Based on 65 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Great place to tent camp," "Beautiful campground with fantastic camping spaces," "Quiet and peaceful with breathtaking views," "Sites are spaced out nicely so there's no cramping issues," "Friendly...
Based on 65 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews for Loop A indicate high satisfaction with lake views and cleanliness. Campsite 006 was particularly praised: "Beautiful area, rest rooms clean, as well as the campground."...
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Accessibility Features
Accessibility features like flush toilets, vault toilets, and picnic shelters received praise in reviews: "Accessible occupant facilities and grills," stated one reviewer, "Vault toilets in the camp...
Based on 65 reviewsShow more
Pet-Friendly Features
Pet policies received mixed feedback. While dogs are allowed and leashed, they are prohibited from swimming areas. "Dogs are not allowed on the beach but are allowed on a leash nearby," shared one...
Based on 65 reviewsShow more
Last updated August 10, 2025