Arkansas / Howard County

Cossatot Reefs

Open — Open year-round with reservations available through Recreation.gov. Peak season runs from March through October.

About

Cossatot Reefs Campground sits along the lush banks of Gillham Lake in southwest Arkansas, offering a peaceful retreat for outdoor enthusiasts. Nicknamed the "Bright Spot on the Cossatot," Gillham Lake spans 1,370 surface acres with 36 miles of shoreline and stems from the Cossatot River, designated as a National Wild and Scenic River. The campground features 31 shady campsites, most with electric hookups, plus walk-to tent sites and a group shelter. Modern amenities include hot showers, flush toilets, and drinking water. A boat ramp provides easy access to the lake for boating and water sports, while anglers can fish for smallmouth, largemouth, and spotted bass, crappie, channel and flathead catfish, and various species of sunfish. The river can be canoed from below the dam to Highway 71 South, roughly 16 miles, with shorter trips possible via access roads at Mize Crossing and Ladd Bridge. A short nature trail within the campground weaves through the wooded section, painted with colorful redbud and dogwood blossoms in spring. The campground also features a playground, amphitheater, and picnic areas. The area has the possibility of flooding throughout the year, and campers should be aware of sudden changes in water level below the dam.

Directions

From De Queen, Arkansas, head north on US-59/US-71. Continue for nearly 10 miles and turn right at Gillham EZ-Mart. Turn right on Tower Road, go 1.3 miles then turn left onto Gillham Lake Road. Go 4.3 miles, turn right and follow signs into the campground.

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