The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers built the Ozarks’ great reservoirs — and surrounded them with campgrounds. Corps parks are often the best waterfront camping in the region: big lakeside sites, electric or water/electric hookups, boat ramps and swim beaches, usually at prices well below private resorts.
Why RVers love Corps campgrounds
- Waterfront sites: many loops sit right on the shoreline.
- Value: nightly fees are typically modest, and America the Beautiful Senior and Access Pass holders generally receive a discount on camping fees.
- Space: sites are often more spread out than at private parks.
- Online booking: most are reservable on Recreation.gov.
The big Corps lakes of the Ozarks
Table Rock Lake (Missouri & Arkansas)
The busiest and best-known, near Branson. Favorites include Indian Point, Cape Fair, Old Highway 86, Big M, Campbell Point and Cricket Creek. See our Table Rock Lake guide.
Bull Shoals and Norfork lakes
Big, quiet water near Mountain Home with Lakeview, Theodosia, Quarry Park and Panther Bay. See our Bull Shoals guide.
Beaver Lake (Arkansas)
Clear water close to Eureka Springs and Northwest Arkansas, including Dam Site Lake and Prairie Creek.
How booking works
- Reservations open on Recreation.gov on a rolling window, typically six months ahead of arrival.
- Many parks are seasonal and close for part of the winter; some keep a loop open year-round.
- Some sites may be held for first-come, first-served use — check the park’s page.
- Check-in and quiet hours are enforced by camp hosts and gate attendants.
What to expect at the site
- Most sites offer 30- or 50-amp electric; some add water. Full hookups are uncommon — plan to use the dump station.
- Older loops can be short, sloped or tight. Read the site details, including maximum length and driveway type.
- Bring leveling blocks and a long water hose.
FAQ
Do Corps of Engineers campgrounds have full hookups?
Usually not. Most offer electric or water/electric sites with a central dump station.
How do I reserve a Corps of Engineers campsite?
Most Corps campgrounds in the Ozarks are reserved through Recreation.gov, typically up to six months in advance.
Is there a senior discount?
Holders of the America the Beautiful Senior Pass or Access Pass generally receive a discount on camping fees at Corps campgrounds. Bring your pass to check-in.
Always confirm hookups, rates and seasonal closures with each campground. Some links may be affiliate links — see our disclosure.
