Cove Lake Recreation Area

About

Cove Lake Recreation Area is a scenic summer getaway nestled in the Arkansas River Valley within the Ozark National Forest. The 160-acre mountain lake sits near Mount Magazine, the highest point in Arkansas at 2,753 feet elevation. The mixed hardwood forest provides shade throughout the 36-site campground, where each site includes a picnic table and campfire ring with grill. The lake supports catfish, largemouth bass, bluegill, sunfish, crappie, and perch, with regular stocking and an annual kids' fishing derby. A boat ramp provides lake access, and an on-site concessionaire offers boat rentals, cabins, a miniature golf course, and food service from Memorial Day through Labor Day. The beach area is open April through Labor Day for swimming. A no-wake policy applies on the entire lake during weekends and holidays. The campground is about 15 miles south of Paris, Arkansas. A scenic 10-mile drive north from Havana leads to the top of Mount Magazine for panoramic views. Camp trailers are allowed, though no hookups or special RV facilities are available.

Directions

From Paris, take Arkansas Highway 109/309 south, then turn southwest on Arkansas 309 and go 9 miles. Road is negotiable by camping trailers.