The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has announced the permanent closure of swim beaches at two Beaver Lake campgrounds, citing erosion, safety risks, and high maintenance costs.
The decision affects Rocky Branch and Lost Bridge South campgrounds, both of which have faced ongoing challenges due to fluctuating water levels and environmental factors.
According to the Corps, maintaining the Rocky Branch swim beach has become increasingly difficult due to its exposure to wind and waves.
The beach, located on a peninsula, features a steep, rocky shoreline and a concrete wall that has contributed to unsafe conditions.
“The steep, rocky shoreline and concrete wall at the back of the beach create unsafe conditions for visitors, leading to injuries,” the Corps stated in a report by Northwest Arkansas Democrat Gazette.
Lost Bridge South has similarly struggled with water level fluctuations, often causing its parking lot to become submerged. This has forced visitors to park in roadways and campsites, creating congestion and safety concerns.
The close proximity of campsites to the beach has also prevented park rangers from extending buoy lines, leading to overcrowding and conflicts among guests. Additionally, submerged swim cables and electrical sites pose further safety hazards.
While these swim areas will no longer be maintained, the Corps emphasized that shoreline access will remain available. Other designated swim beaches at Beaver Lake—including those at Hickory Creek, Horseshoe Bend Campground, and Prairie Creek—will continue to operate.
For campground and outdoor hospitality operators in the region, the closure underscores the challenges associated with maintaining recreational water access amid shifting environmental conditions.
Business owners who rely on lake tourism may need to consider alternative ways to attract visitors, such as investing in other water-based activities or enhancing campground amenities.
Industry professionals should also be aware of evolving safety and maintenance standards as regulatory bodies address changing landscapes. Proactive infrastructure planning and risk management strategies can help businesses navigate these challenges while ensuring guest safety.
For updates on the status of other Beaver Lake swim beaches, the Beaver Lake Project Office can be contacted at (479) 636-1210 or via the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ website.
