Openings · last 7 days
10
Booking reality
Campsite Sniper detected 10 site openings here in the last 7 days
01 · Detected Opening History · the openings record · file CS-10382332
When Shady Lake Campground reopens
Shady Lake Campground's openings record: every site-date Campsite Sniper detected turning available, logged and time-stamped. Refreshed hourly.
Openings · last 30 days
29
Openings · last 90 days
38
Only 38 openings in the last 90 days: not enough recent activity for a reliable pattern. A free Campsite Sniper alert watches around the clock instead, and pings you the moment one opens.
02 · Availability Outlook · Sep 18 – Nov 30, 2026 · of 54 monitored sites
Of the 3,996 tracked site-nights (Sep 18 – Nov 30, 2026): 1,495 open for online reservation · 577 reserved · 1,924 on sites not offered for online reservation (first-come, first-served or administrative). Of the facility's 54 monitored sites, 28 can be reserved online and 26 are first-come, first-served.
Where the open windows are
62.6% of tracked site-nights are not currently open for online reservation. 1,495 of 3,996 remain open; here is where they are.
Load status
Sep 18 – Nov 30, 2026Not open online62.6%
Open site-nights1,495 / 3,996
Reserved (of online inventory)577 / 2,072
Weekday openings879
Weekend openings616
Of the open site-nights on mapped sites, 879 fall on weekdays and 616 on weekends (Fri–Sun).
Open dates by month
Sep 2026 – Nov 2026November holds the most room. 709 of 1,620 site-nights are still open there.
Holiday windows
Sites open per night · of 54 sites| Window | Night | Sites open | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Labor Day | SAT Sep 5 | 0 | None open |
| SUN Sep 6 | 0 | None open | |
| MON Sep 7 | 0 | None open | |
| Thanksgiving | THU Nov 26 | 25 | Open |
| FRI Nov 27 | 25 | Open | |
| SAT Nov 28 | 25 | Open |
Labor Day: no online availability on any tracked night. Thanksgiving: 25 sites are available for the complete three-night stay.
Best-availability sites
Most open site-nights · tracked window| Site | Open site-nights |
|---|---|
| 07 | 72 |
| 06 | 70 |
| 05 | 68 |
| 04 | 67 |
| 02 | 66 |
The 5 sites with the most open site-nights in the current snapshot. Pair a bookable date with a free alert to cover everything else.
Next windows
As of Sep 18, 2026 snapshotNext open dateFri · Sep 18
Next open weekendFri · Sep 18
The next bookable night is Sep 18; the first open weekend starts Sep 18. Campsite Sniper can watch later dates for you.
Stays and site detail
1,495 open site-nights across 27 sites at Shady Lake Campground, from the same hourly snapshot as everything above.
Multi-night stays. 86 2-night, 77 3-night, 59 7-night openings where a single site is free for every night, per Campsite Sniper's current snapshot — soonest Sep 18 at site 02.
RV length. Longest recorded site here is 63 ft. 41 sites take 25 ft, 5 sites take 35 ft, 5 sites take 40 ft. 11 sites of 54 have no recorded maximum and are not counted.
All 27 sites with current availability
| Site | Max RV | Hookups | Open site-nights | Longest run | Dates |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 07 | 32 ft | Yes | 72 | 51 nights | Sep 18, Sep 19, Sep 20, Sep 21, Sep 22, Sep 23, Sep 24, Sep 25, Sep 26, Sep 27, Sep 28, Sep 29 +60 more |
| 06 | 32 ft | Yes | 70 | 53 nights | Sep 21, Sep 22, Sep 23, Sep 24, Sep 25, Sep 26, Sep 27, Sep 28, Sep 29, Sep 30, Oct 1, Oct 2 +58 more |
| 05 | 32 ft | Yes | 68 | 50 nights | Sep 18, Sep 19, Sep 20, Sep 21, Sep 22, Sep 23, Sep 24, Sep 25, Sep 26, Sep 27, Sep 28, Sep 29 +56 more |
| 04 | 32 ft | Yes | 67 | 37 nights | Sep 18, Sep 19, Sep 20, Sep 21, Sep 22, Sep 23, Sep 24, Sep 25, Sep 26, Sep 27, Sep 28, Sep 29 +55 more |
| 02 | 32 ft | Yes | 66 | 37 nights | Sep 18, Sep 19, Sep 20, Sep 21, Sep 22, Sep 23, Sep 24, Sep 25, Sep 26, Sep 27, Sep 28, Sep 29 +54 more |
| 03 | 32 ft | Yes | 65 | 48 nights | Sep 18, Sep 19, Sep 20, Sep 21, Sep 22, Sep 23, Sep 24, Sep 25, Sep 26, Sep 27, Sep 28, Sep 29 +53 more |
| 05 | 48 ft | Yes | 65 | 37 nights | Sep 18, Sep 19, Sep 20, Sep 21, Sep 22, Sep 23, Sep 24, Sep 25, Sep 26, Sep 27, Sep 28, Sep 29 +53 more |
| 24 | 32 ft | Yes | 65 | 37 nights | Sep 18, Sep 19, Sep 20, Sep 21, Sep 22, Sep 23, Sep 24, Sep 25, Sep 26, Sep 27, Sep 28, Sep 29 +53 more |
| 25 | 32 ft | Yes | 65 | 37 nights | Sep 18, Sep 19, Sep 20, Sep 21, Sep 22, Sep 23, Sep 24, Sep 25, Sep 26, Sep 27, Sep 28, Sep 29 +53 more |
| 27 | 32 ft | Yes | 65 | 37 nights | Sep 18, Sep 19, Sep 20, Sep 21, Sep 22, Sep 23, Sep 24, Sep 25, Sep 26, Sep 27, Sep 28, Sep 29 +53 more |
| 06 | 49 ft | Yes | 63 | 30 nights | Sep 18, Sep 19, Sep 20, Sep 21, Sep 22, Sep 23, Sep 24, Sep 25, Sep 26, Sep 27, Sep 28, Sep 29 +51 more |
| 07 | 32 ft | Yes | 63 | 30 nights | Sep 20, Sep 21, Sep 22, Sep 23, Sep 24, Sep 25, Sep 26, Sep 27, Sep 28, Sep 29, Sep 30, Oct 1 +51 more |
| 02 | 32 ft | Yes | 59 | 44 nights | Sep 18, Sep 19, Sep 20, Sep 21, Sep 22, Sep 23, Sep 24, Sep 25, Sep 26, Sep 27, Sep 28, Sep 29 +47 more |
| 02 | 32 ft | Yes | 54 | 14 nights | Sep 20, Sep 21, Sep 22, Sep 23, Sep 24, Sep 25, Sep 26, Sep 27, Sep 28, Sep 29, Sep 30, Oct 1 +42 more |
| 03 | 50 ft | Yes | 54 | 36 nights | Sep 18, Sep 19, Sep 20, Sep 21, Sep 29, Sep 30, Oct 1, Oct 2, Oct 3, Oct 4, Oct 5, Oct 6 +42 more |
| 14 | 32 ft | Yes | 53 | 28 nights | Sep 20, Sep 21, Sep 22, Sep 23, Sep 24, Sep 27, Sep 28, Sep 29, Sep 30, Oct 1, Oct 2, Oct 3 +41 more |
| 26 | 32 ft | Yes | 52 | 20 nights | Sep 21, Sep 22, Sep 23, Sep 24, Sep 25, Sep 26, Sep 27, Sep 28, Sep 29, Sep 30, Oct 1, Oct 2 +40 more |
| 11 | 32 ft | Yes | 51 | 23 nights | Sep 20, Sep 21, Sep 22, Sep 23, Sep 24, Sep 25, Sep 26, Sep 27, Sep 28, Sep 29, Sep 30, Oct 1 +39 more |
| 01 | 32 ft | Yes | 49 | 23 nights | Oct 1, Oct 2, Oct 3, Oct 4, Oct 5, Oct 6, Oct 7, Oct 8, Oct 9, Oct 10, Oct 11, Oct 12 +37 more |
| 13 | 32 ft | Yes | 49 | 30 nights | Sep 20, Sep 21, Sep 22, Sep 23, Sep 24, Sep 25, Sep 26, Sep 27, Sep 28, Sep 29, Sep 30, Oct 1 +37 more |
| 07 | 55 ft | Yes | 48 | 16 nights | Sep 18, Sep 19, Sep 20, Sep 23, Sep 24, Sep 25, Sep 26, Sep 27, Sep 28, Sep 29, Sep 30, Oct 1 +36 more |
| 28 | 32 ft | Yes | 47 | 19 nights | Sep 18, Sep 19, Sep 20, Sep 21, Sep 22, Sep 23, Sep 24, Sep 25, Sep 26, Sep 27, Sep 28, Sep 29 +35 more |
| 08 | 32 ft | Yes | 45 | 18 nights | Sep 18, Sep 19, Sep 20, Sep 21, Sep 22, Sep 23, Sep 24, Sep 25, Sep 26, Sep 27, Sep 28, Sep 29 +33 more |
| 01 | 32 ft | Yes | 42 | 36 nights | Sep 30, Oct 1, Oct 15, Oct 18, Oct 19, Oct 20, Oct 26, Oct 27, Oct 28, Oct 29, Oct 30, Oct 31 +30 more |
| 05 | 32 ft | Yes | 38 | 19 nights | Sep 20, Sep 21, Sep 22, Sep 23, Sep 24, Sep 25, Sep 26, Sep 27, Sep 28, Sep 29, Sep 30, Oct 1 +26 more |
| 04 | 32 ft | Yes | 35 | 23 nights | Oct 1, Oct 4, Oct 5, Oct 6, Oct 7, Oct 25, Oct 26, Oct 27, Oct 28, Oct 29, Oct 30, Oct 31 +23 more |
| 09 | 63 ft | Yes | 25 | 18 nights | Sep 21, Sep 22, Sep 23, Sep 24, Sep 25, Sep 26, Sep 27, Sep 28, Sep 29, Sep 30, Oct 1, Oct 2 +13 more |
About Shady Lake Campground
Overview
Shady Lake is closed to horses and all Off Highway Vehicles (OHV). Visitors are encouraged to access the Forest Motor Vehicle Use Maps (MVUM) to identify routes where OHV activities are allowed on the Forest. Shady Lake makes an excellent base camp for those who wish to participate in such activities. Guests are welcome to trailer their machines to and from the recreation area and park in proximity to Shady Lake Recreation area.
Shady Lake is a 25-acre lake constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in 1937 along the Saline River in Polk County. The recreation area is home to four camp loops with a total of 54 campsites, site amenities ranging from basic amenities to full service campsites with sewage, water, and 20/30/50 amp electrical connections. Currently, only 17 campsites are available for reservations. All remaining campsites are open on a first-come, first-serve basis. Day use activities are allowed, as well.
For a small monetary payment forest guests can enter the area and encounter a mass of recreational opportunities such as camping, hiking, mountain biking, non-motorized boating, fishing, swimming, restroom amenities, warm showers, flush toilets, potable water, overlooks, picnic pavilions, and pure relaxation.
America the Beautiful National Parks & Federal Recreational Lands Passes are honored at Shady Lake Recreation Area. Visit this website for more information and instructions on how to use the pass - https://store.usgs.gov/recreational-passes
Loop A Reconstruction Project was completed in 2026. The project was funded solely through Great American Outdoor Act (GAOA) monies and resulted in the construction of nine, fully accessible ADA campsites with full-service capabilities. Loop A bathhouse, an original CCC structure, was restored to remove vandalism and repair broken support beams. A brand new vault toilet was installed to support day users. As part of the improvements to the sites, new utilities were installed to provide potable drinking water and waste management. Please note, the map provided does not show an accurate road layout for Loop A. Please see photo attachment of the campground layout.
**Developed Recreation Fee Proposal** SHADY LAKE CAMPGROUND FEE INCREASE FOR SITES WITH WATER, ELECTRIC, AND SEWAGE (LOOP A & C22)
Ouachita National Forest is considering a recreation fee proposal. We are seeking input, COMMENT PERIOD ENDS JULY 20, 2026.
Current fee: $25.00 + $8 reservation fee Proposed fee: $35.00 $8 reservation fee
How to get more information or provide a comment-
Bill Jackson, Recreation Program Manager
PO Box 1270, Hot Springs, AR, 71913
501-321-5253 or SM.FS.ON_PA@USDA.GOV
Recreation
This developed recreation area provides a foundation for families to gather and recreate together. The site offers four camp loops for all user types, services ranging from all to no amenities. Hiking access into Caney Creek Wilderness begins in Loop C at Tall Peak Trail spurring off the Shady Lake Trail; Shady Lake Trail continues to traverse along the perimeter of the recreation area. Other features in the site include a swimming beach, lake access for non-motorized boating and fishing, picnic pavilions, accessible amenities such as warm showers and flush toilets. Shady Lake Recreation Area is a gateway to various recreational opportunities on the Ouachita National Forest. Mountainous roads venture deep into the valleys and on top of ridges. Several hiking trailheads are located in close proximity to Shady Lake. Wolf Pen Gap OHV Trail Complex is 13 mile drive from the gates of the recreation area. This area is hub for wild game hunters of all kinds for generations.
The history of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) stems in Shady Lake and the work completed is preserved so forest guests can enjoy its glory. Several original structures are still standing and operational, places include Loop A Bathhouse and Pavilion, Shady Lake Dam, the overlook pavilion, rock bridges, rock walls, and various land features.
Although Shady Lake is not open to horses or Off Highway Vehicles, forest guests can enjoy Shady Lake Day Use amenities through walk in access. Parking is available outside the gate for parties operating OHVs.
Facilities
Shady Lake facilities are open April 15 - November 30
CCC-built Pavilion overlooking the Shady Lake
Loop A bathhouse/pavilion with male and female bathrooms with shower stalls
Loop A campground: nine (9) reservation only, campsites with water/electric/sewage connections
Loop B bathhouse with male and female bathrooms with private, shower stalls
Loop B campground: Eleven (11) reservation only, campsites with water/electric connections & six (6) first-come first-serve, non-electric/water campsites
Loop C bathhouse with male and female bathrooms with private, shower stalls
Loop C campground: One (1) reservation only, campsite with water/electric/sewage connections & 17 first-come first-serve, non-electric/water campsites
Loop D bathhouse with male, female, and family bathrooms with private, shower stalls
Loop D campground: seven (7) reservation only, campsites with water/electric connections & three (3) first-come first-serve, non-electric/water campsites
Natural Features
Shady Lake Recreation Area is nestled in the Ouachita National Forest at the base of Tall Peak and Raspberry Mountains with bordering features including National Forest, Caney Creek Wilderness and private land. The campground is surrounded by mountain tops and towering pine trees providing the perfect shaded camping experience. Saline creek traverses through the campground suitable for freshwater swimming opportunities outside of drought conditions. Mountainous, dirt roads are quickly accessible outside of the recreation area, serving as a gateway into the forest. Historically, the rec area has been utilized as a base camp for wild game hunters throughout the seasons.
Nearby Attractions
Ouachita National Forest
Mena-Oden Ranger District, 1603 Highway 71 North, Mena, AR 71953
Wolf Pen Gap OHV Trail Complex
Eagle Mountain
CCC-constructed fire towers: Bee Mountain & Tall Peak (walk-in access only)
Caney Creek Wilderness, Caney Creek Trail & Buckeye Trail
Sugar Gap Vista
Talimena Scenic Drive
East End Visitor Information Station
Caddo-Womble Ranger District, 1523 Hwy 270 East, Mount Ida, AR 71957
Albert Pike Recreation Area
Bard Springs Recreation Area
Little Missouri Falls
Athens Big Fork Trail, Eagle Rock Loop, Winding Stairs Trail
Hot Springs National Park https://www.nps.gov/hosp/index.htm
Arkansas State Parks
Queen Wilhelmina State Park https://www.arkansasstateparks.com/parks/queen-wilhelmina-state-park
Cossatot River State Park - Natural Area https://www.arkansasstateparks.com/parks/cossatot-river-state-park-natural-area
Brushy Creek Recreation Area https://www.arkansasstateparks.com/trails/brushy-creek-nature-trail
US Army Corps of Engineers
Gillham Lake
Dierks Lake
DeQueen Lake
Millwood Lake
Lake Greeson
Nearest Towns - Athens: 7 miles, Wickes: 26 miles, Glenwood: 33 miles Mena: 27 miles, Kirby: 30 miles, Dequeen: 45 miles
54 monitored sites26 FCFS sitesRVs up to 63 ft31 with hookups46 shadedWaterfrontLakefrontRiverfrontPets OKFire pitsMax party 12
Getting there
2902 Polk County Road 64, Mena, AR 71953479-394-2382
BackpackingBikingBirdingCampingCanoeingDay Use AreaFishingHikingHistoric & Cultural SiteKayakingMountain BikingNon-Motorized BoatingObservation SitePaddlingPicnickingSwimmingSwimming SiteWater AccessWater ActivitiesWildernessWildlife Viewing
View on Recreation.gov ↗ Get directions ↗
03 · Field Photos · roll CS-10382332 · facility
Photo gallery
Roll CS-10382332 · Shady Lake Campground · Mena AR12 frames · facility
FAQ
How do I get a reservation at Shady Lake Campground?
Reservations for Shady Lake Campground are made through Recreation.gov. 1,495 of 3,996 tracked site-nights are currently open (37.4%). Campsite Sniper has also detected 38 site openings here in the last 90 days, so further dates may appear. Pick a site on the map to see its calendar, or set a free Campsite Sniper alert. You complete the reservation yourself on Recreation.gov.
Does Campsite Sniper book this campground for me?
No. Campsite Sniper sends alerts and direct Recreation.gov links. It never books, pays for, holds, hoards, or resells reservations.
How current is this availability data?
Campsite Sniper re-checks public Recreation.gov availability for this facility every hour and republishes whenever anything changes. This facility's data last changed at Sep 18, 2026 14:17 UTC; an older timestamp means nothing has changed since that time, not that checking stopped. Always confirm final availability on Recreation.gov when you book.
How often do new openings appear at Shady Lake Campground?
Campsite Sniper detected 10 site-date openings at Shady Lake Campground in the last 7 days, 29 over 30 days and 38 over the last 90.
Can I get a multi-night stay at Shady Lake Campground?
77 three-night openings are showing, counting only runs where the SAME site is free for all three nights. The soonest starts Sep 18 at site 02. Confirm and book on Recreation.gov.
Which sites at Shady Lake Campground fit a 35-foot RV?
5 of the 54 sites that support RV analysis have a recorded maximum of 35 ft or more; the longest recorded is 63 ft. 43 of those 54 sites have a recorded maximum length and 11 do not; they are not counted as fitting.
Which month has the most availability at Shady Lake Campground?
November 2026, with 709 open site-nights in the current snapshot of 1,620.
When is the next open date at Shady Lake Campground?
As of the Sep 18, 2026 snapshot: the next open date is Fri, Sep 18 and the next open weekend starts Fri, Sep 18. Detected openings can add earlier dates at any time; a free Campsite Sniper alert catches those the moment they appear.
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