Some lakes are made for speedboats and jet skis. Others? They’re made for people who like the sound of wind through trees, birds calling overhead, and the quiet splash of a paddle hitting the water. Millwood Lake — tucked just northeast of Texarkana — definitely falls into that second category.
It’s the kind of place where nature does most of the talking. And for folks who crave a slower, more intentional kind of outdoor experience — one filled with wildlife, hiking trails, shaded campsites, and calm water — it’s pretty much a hidden gem.
So, whether you’re planning to pitch a tent, park the RV, or just spend a lazy afternoon watching herons glide across the water, this guide will show you exactly why Millwood Lake camping near Texarkana is a favorite among outdoor lovers.
First Things First: Where is Millwood Lake?
Millwood Lake is located in southwest Arkansas, just about 25 miles northeast of Texarkana. It’s a manmade reservoir created by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, originally built for flood control, water supply, and recreation.
With over 29,000 surface acres and a shoreline that stretches more than 65 miles, there’s plenty of room to roam — and plenty of places to find your own little slice of peace.
What Makes Millwood Special?
Well, for starters — the wildlife is off the charts. This lake sits at the crossroads of multiple habitats: wetlands, cypress bottoms, pine forest, and open water. That means you get an incredible range of plants and animals, often just a few feet from your campsite or boat.
It’s also less developed than other regional lakes, which gives it that wild, untamed feel — without sacrificing the basics like boat ramps, trails, and solid campgrounds.
Let’s break it down.
Birdwatching: A Nationally Recognized Hotspot
If you’re even remotely into birding, Millwood is probably already on your radar. If not — it should be.
The lake is home to over 300 recorded bird species, making it one of the most diverse birdwatching locations in the southern U.S.
Expect to see:
- Bald eagles
- Great blue herons
- Wood ducks
- Prothonotary warblers
- Osprey
- Pileated woodpeckers
The shallow backwaters and swampy margins are perfect for wading birds and waterfowl. Bring binoculars, and you’ll be rewarded — especially early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Pro tip: Try the Beard’s Bluff area for some of the best birding access near the shoreline.
Fishing: Millwood’s Legendary Bass Scene
Ask any local angler about Millwood and they’ll light up. This place is famous for its largemouth bass fishing — especially in spring and fall.
Besides bass, you’ll find:
- Crappie
- Bluegill
- Catfish
- White bass
The lake’s submerged timber, vegetation, and wide coves create perfect cover for fish, and there are dozens of fishing tournaments held here each year.
There are multiple boat ramps around the lake, and even if you’re just tossing a line from shore, your chances are good.
If you’re camping nearby or staying at an RV park near Millwood Lake, you’re within minutes of world-class fishing — without the crowds.
Hiking & Nature Trails
One of the more underrated things about Millwood is its network of hiking and walking trails, tucked away in parks around the lake.
1. Beard’s Bluff Nature Trail
This is probably the most well-known hiking spot near the lake. It’s a short, easy loop trail that runs through woods and near the shoreline, offering a few benches and scenic overlooks. It’s great for families or just a peaceful morning stroll.
2. Millwood State Park Trail
Located inside Millwood State Park, this trail meanders through bottomland forest and offers interpretive signs about the local ecosystem. It’s a great intro to the region’s natural diversity and doesn’t take long to complete.
Bring bug spray and maybe some boots if it’s rained recently — things can get muddy fast in this part of Arkansas.
Camping at Millwood Lake
If you’re planning to stay a while (and you really should), Millwood has several well-maintained campgrounds run by both the state and the Army Corps of Engineers.
Here’s what to expect:
⛺ Millwood State Park
Probably the best-known camping spot at the lake. It offers:
- RV sites with full hookups
- Tent sites
- Bathhouses
- Picnic areas
- A marina and fishing dock
It’s peaceful, shaded, and you’re steps away from the lake itself.
⛺ Beard’s Bluff Campground
Another solid option, especially for RVers or families looking for a slightly more rustic experience. The sites here are spaced out nicely, and many of them back up to the water or offer lake views.
Great spot for sunsets.
Boating, Kayaking, and Canoeing
You don’t need a motorboat to enjoy Millwood’s waters.
In fact, many of the best coves, creeks, and shallow channels are better explored by kayak or canoe. The submerged cypress trees and tangled shorelines make for incredible paddle routes, especially if you like a little solitude with your scenery.
That said, if you do have a boat, there are plenty of ramps and open areas to cruise — just be mindful of the stumps and submerged timber, especially if the water’s low.
Millwood Lake RV Activities Worth Noting
For RV travelers looking to stay a while and get their outdoor fix, the Millwood Lake camping near Texarkana setup checks all the boxes.
Activities include:
- Daily nature walks around Beard’s Bluff or the state park
- Evening fishing sessions from the bank or boat dock
- Morning coffee with birdsong as your soundtrack
- Campfire cookouts under the stars
- Easy day trips into Texarkana for supplies or a meal out
And if you want full amenities but still be close to nature, a stay at a Millwood Lake RV park offers the perfect blend of comfort and outdoor access.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Cell service can be spotty around the lake. Download maps ahead of time.
- Ticks and mosquitoes are active, especially in warmer months — bring repellent.
- Bait shops and gas are limited, so stock up before you arrive.
- Wildlife is abundant. Keep food secured and pets leashed — there are snakes, armadillos, and the occasional gator in more remote areas.
- Seasonal flooding can affect trails and campsites — always check the conditions before you go.
FAQs About Millwood Lake Camping Near Texarkana
Q: How far is Millwood Lake from Texarkana?
A: Roughly 25 miles — about a 35-minute drive depending on your starting point and the campground you’re headed to.
Q: Is Millwood Lake good for RV camping?
A: Absolutely. There are multiple RV-friendly sites with electric hookups, water, and nearby dump stations. Beard’s Bluff and Millwood State Park both accommodate RVs.
Q: Can I bring a kayak or paddleboard?
A: Yes! Non-motorized watercraft are allowed, and some of the lake’s best areas are ideal for paddling.
Q: Is there a fee to enter Millwood Lake?
A: Some areas, like Millwood State Park, charge a small day-use or overnight camping fee. Corps-run recreation areas may also have access fees or require reservations.
Q: Are dogs allowed?
A: Yes, dogs are welcome in most campgrounds and on trails, as long as they’re leashed and cleaned up after.
Q: What’s the best time of year to visit Millwood Lake?
A: Spring and fall are the sweet spots — cooler temps, fewer bugs, and prime fishing/birdwatching conditions. Summers are hot but manageable with shade and water access.
Final Thoughts: The Quiet Side of Outdoor Adventure
Millwood Lake isn’t the flashiest place you’ll ever visit. But it might just be one of the most peaceful. It’s the kind of spot that rewards patience, encourages slowing down, and fills your days with small, quiet moments that stick with you.
Whether you’re watching mist rise over the cypress trees, waiting on a bite from the end of the dock, or hiking a trail no one else seems to know about — Millwood gives you the chance to reconnect with nature the way it was meant to be.
So pack your binoculars, load up the tackle box, and set your sights just outside Texarkana. There’s something special waiting for you at Millwood Lake.