Arkansas / Howard County

Big Coon Creek

Closed — Closed for routine maintenance through February 28, 2025. Typically operates March through October. Reservations available through Recreation.gov.

About

Big Coon Creek Campground sits along the lush banks of Gillham Lake in southwest Arkansas, nicknamed the "Bright Spot on the Cossatot." This U.S. Army Corps of Engineers campground offers 32 developed sites, each equipped with water and 50-amp electric hookups. The facility includes modern amenities such as hot showers, flush toilets, a dump station, boat ramp, swimming beach, and playground. Gillham Lake spans 1,370 surface acres with 36 miles of shoreline, stemming from the Cossatot River, which is designated as a National Wild and Scenic River. The lake and river provide excellent opportunities for boating, fishing, and canoeing. Anglers can catch smallmouth, largemouth, and spotted bass, saugeye, crappie, channel and flathead catfish, and various sunfish species. The river can be canoed from below the dam to U.S. Highway 71 South, about 16 miles, with shorter access points at Mize Crossing and Ladd Bridge. The campground operates seasonally from March through October and accepts advance reservations through Recreation.gov. Hunting is permitted in designated areas north of Little Coon Creek Park and on the eastern shore of the lake. The area is subject to potential flooding, and campers should be aware of fluctuating water levels controlled by the dam. From Gillham on Highway 71, the campground is accessed via Tower Road, Gillham Lake Road, and Polk Road 474.

Directions

From Gillham on Highway 71, go east on Tower Road for 1.3 miles. Turn left onto Gillham Lake Road for 4.3 miles. Turn left onto Polk Road 474 for 1.7 miles.

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