Beaver Lake in Arkansas is a beautiful vacation destination in the Ozarks. Little-known to many people outside of Arkansas and the southern United States, it remains one of the most spectacular, yet undiscovered places for a relaxing getaway. A man-made reservoir formed by Beaver Dam across White River, Beaver Lake is a perfect place for families who love water sports and outdoor activities. If you own a boat, you’ll love the easy access to several full-service marinas. Choose from one of many lakefront vacation rentals on Beaver Lake as your home away from home for a family vacation to remember. Here are the ten best places to stay around Beaver Lake during your trip.
1. Rogers, Arkansas
Vacation in Rogers to stay close to the lake but have access to indoor activities. This is a great place to find a vacation rental, because there is always something to do. Guests can enjoy a three-acre outdoor water park here, as well as a natural surface bike park. Stop by the Daisy Airgun Museum in downtown Rogers — you might as well! Rogers is only minutes away from Beaver Lake and Ozark Mountain adventures, so you’ll have convenient access to the area’s best activities.
2. Beaver, Arkansas
Let the historic town of Beaver charm you with its gorgeous seasonal wildflowers and the striking Beaver Bridge. Make sure to bring your camera if you stay here! Families will have easy access to the lake. In case of a rainy day, you’ll also be able to visit museums here. Check out the local petting zoo and go horseback riding — or spend your days out on the water in a boat enjoying the hot sun and cool water.
3. Eureka Springs
Eureka Springs offers a cultured and vibrant scene where you can stay near art galleries and enjoy the historic Victorian architecture in the downtown area. If you are visiting between April and October, one of the most fun day trips for visitors is to go on a catered meal excursion on the Eureka Springs & North Arkansas Railway. You can also go ziplining through the leafy trees. The town’s seven-foot Christ of the Ozarks statue is a major landmark in this area.
4. Bella Vista, Arkansas
Find peace in nature in Bella Vista, a quaint little town tucked neatly away in the northwest corner of the state. Miles of streams and trails are one of the main destinations in this community, so look for a vacation rental in this area if you are looking forward to spending time hiking in nature.
5. Lowell, Arkansas
Take a deep breath, slow down, and embrace the heart and soul of small town America when you stay in Lowell. This town has a lot to offer in the way of family activities. Choose from mini golfing, laser tag, or going on an indoor roller coaster with your little ones. Enjoy browsing the local boutiques, and be sure to visit the area’s lakes and parks for outdoor fun — that’s probably why you came in the first place!
6. War Eagle, Arkansas
If you’re looking for a break from modern living, step back in time in War Eagle. This town is a great place to come with your kids to learn about how people used to live. Check out the working grist mill that began operating in 1832, and explore the War Eagle Cavern and War Eagle Bridge. You’ll be within minutes of the lake and close to the entertainment in the town of Rogers.
7. Larue, Arkansas
Calm down and live life at a slower pace when you stay in Larue, a small town surrounded by Beaver Lake on three sides. Enjoy everything that the lake has to offer, including fishing, boating and tubing. Waterfront cabins make days and nights at the lake feel like a world away from the daily grind. Head to one of seven full-service marinas around the lake to rent anything that you might need for a day on the water.
8. Springdale, Arkansas
Springdale is an epic escape if ever one existed. Go where luxurious accommodations, museums and vineyards coexist. You might spend your entire vacation enjoying everything that this town has to offer, including the Rodeo of the Ozarks. Hike, bike or take a helicopter tour to see the best of the beautiful mountain vistas.
9. Berryville, Arkansas
Go off the beaten path and make the town Berryville your vacation spot so you can experience its charming shops and cafes to the fullest. If you feel adventurous, take the kids to Snake World to see a variety of reptiles. The matchless splendor of the Ozarks awaits you in all directions, even if you go underground to explore Cosmic Cavern.
10. Garfield, Arkansas
Much of the history of the Ozarks is anchored in Garfield, where visitors love the exhibits and ghost stories at Pea Ridge National Military Park. Garfield is a small town with easy access to some of the finest recreation in the area, as well as the entertainment and amenities of cities in Southwest Missouri if you’re looking for a fun day trip from Beaver Lake.