Overview Sunlight Bay Campground sits along the shores of Nimrod Lake just off of the Fourche Lafave river on Wilson Slough. Nimrod Lake is cradled between Arkansas' Ouachita and Ozark Mountains.Recreation Fishing is one of the most popular activities at the lake, with an abundance of catfish, bluegill, bass and crappi…
Overview Sunlight Bay Campground sits along the shores of Nimrod Lake just off of the Fourche Lafave river on Wilson Slough. Nimrod Lake is cradled between Arkansas' Ouachita and Ozark Mountains.Recreation Fishing is one of the most popular activities at the lake, with an abundance of catfish, bluegill, bass and crappie available. Boating, water skiing and tubing are also popular, with 11 boat ramps conveniently located around the lake, however, skiing and tubing are only allowed from the tip of Carden Point eastward toward the dam because areas west of there are too hazardous. Campers are likely to spot white-tailed deer, eastern wild turkey, bobwhite quail, squirrel, rabbit, fox, mink, black bear, dove and waterfowl in the area. Seasonal hunting is also permitted throughout the lake, except in or near recreation areas.Facilities With 29 spacious and modern campsites and one large day use group picnic shelter, Sunlight Bay Campground has plenty of room for the family. Two boat ramps and playground are also provided.Natural Features Nimrod Dam was completed in 1942 as part of a comprehensive plan for flood control and development of water resources in the Fourche LaFave River. Although recreation was not part of the initial mission of the dam project, the lake and surrounding 21,000 acres of pristine land have now become a recreational oasis for outdoor enthusiasts. Nearby Attractions Nimrod Lake is conveniently located adjacent to State Highway 7, a National Scenic Byway and other nearby points of interest like Petit Jean State Park, Mount Nebo State Park and Hot Springs National Park.
Photos
SUNLIGHT BAY ENTRANCE — Nimrod LakeSUNLIGHT BAY SHOWERS — Nimrod LakeSUNLIGHT BAY DUMP STATION — Nimrod LakeSUNLIGHT BAY PLAYGROUND — Nimrod Lake
How to Get There
From Plainview, Arkansas, take Highway 28 west for a quarter mile, then follow signs to the campground.
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
🛍
Dry bags for electronics
Phone, camera, and snacks should stay dry.
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 SUNLIGHT BAY
Heading to SUNLIGHT BAY? 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 SUNLIGHT BAY?
No central reservation system listed for SUNLIGHT BAY. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232714) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to SUNLIGHT BAY?
From Plainview, Arkansas, take Highway 28 west for a quarter mile, then follow signs to the campground.
