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FacilityCampgroundRecreation.gov

Sportsman's Cove

Texarkana, Arkansas · Bowie County · Campground

Overview Sportsman's Cove Special Event Area is located in the old Mallard Bay/Intake Hill area on the lake. The special event area includes a 60' X 60' pavilion with lights, electrical outlets, access to potable water, 10 picnic tables and a grill, a restroom with showers and A/C, and a parking lot and boat ramp. This…

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33.35750, -94.16487
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About Sportsman's Cove

Overview Sportsman's Cove Special Event Area is located in the old Mallard Bay/Intake Hill area on the lake. The special event area includes a 60' X 60' pavilion with lights, electrical outlets, access to potable water, 10 picnic tables and a grill, a restroom with showers and A/C, and a parking lot and boat ramp. This area is a great asset to the Wright Patman Lake Project for large scale Special Events and Fishing Tournaments. To make a reservation, please contact the lake office at least two weeks prior to the event at 903-838-8781 for the entrance code and a Special Event Permit or Lake Activity Permit. The area is accessible 6:00am - 10:00pm. Fees: Pavilion $80 per day. Recreation The special event area includes a 60' X 60' pavilion with lights, electrical outlets, access to potable water, 10 picnic tables and a grill, a restroom with showers and A/C, and a parking lot and boat ramp. This area is a great asset to the Wright Patman Lake Project for large scale Special Events and Fishing Tournaments. Bass, catfish, crappie and sunfish are found in the lake. Facilities The special event area has a beautiful, partially-shaded pavilion, near the waterfront. The special event area includes a 60' X 60' pavilion with lights, electrical outlets, access to potable water, 10 picnic tables and a grill, a restroom with showers and A/C, and a parking lot and boat ramp. A dumpster can be found at the left of the restrooms for disposal of trash. Natural Features The park is situated in a mixed hardwood-pine forest next to Wright Patman Lake. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers manages approximately 55,000 acres of public forestland around the lake, providing habitat for wild turkey, bobwhite quail, squirrel, white-tailed deer, waterfowl and migrating bald eagles, pelicans and ducks. Some poisonous snakes inhabit the area. Nearby Attractions The Texarkana region is full of activities such as shopping, movies, restaurants and local historical sites. Shreveport, Louisiana offers riv

What to Pack for Your Stay

Tuned to the live forecast for this park.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    Long-sleeve shirt
    Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
  • 🧥
    Light shell or windbreaker
    Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
  • 👖
    Hiking pants or convertible
    Layer for variable conditions.
  • 🥾
    Trail runners or low boots
    Comfortable, broken in.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection
    Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
  • 🩹
    First-aid kit
    Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
  • 🗺
    Offline map
    Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Plan Your Visit to Sportsman's Cove

Heading to Sportsman's Cove? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Sportsman's Cove?

No central reservation system listed for Sportsman's Cove. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10317396) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I contact Sportsman's Cove?

You can reach the park at email: 903-838-8781.