Beaver Lake's Boat Docking Options For The Summer

Beaver Lake, Arkansas is a popular destination for summertime fun, known for its fishing, boating, scuba diving, water skiing, paddling, and swimming adventures. The lake is located just nine miles from historic Eureka Springs and is also close to Bella Vista. While Beaver Lake offers boat rentals and other water activities, there are some important considerations regarding boat docking. As of 2020, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has enforced a boating capacity and is no longer accepting requests for private floating facilities or boat docks. This decision was made after a recreational boating carrying capacity study determined that the lake could safely support only a certain number of boats during peak use time. Additionally, a USACE policy prohibits guests from using private docks or docking their boats at short-term rental properties. These regulations aim to preserve the natural beauty and safety of the lake.

Beaver Lake's docking policy for short-term rentals

Beaver Lake Docking Policy for Short-Term Rentals

Beaver Lake, Arkansas, is a popular destination for summertime fun, offering fishing, boating, scuba diving, water skiing, paddling, and swimming. With an uptick in short-term rentals, Beaver Lake is a prime location for visitors. However, it's important to be aware of the lake's docking policies, especially for short-term rentals.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) has implemented a policy that prohibits guests from using private docks for commercial purposes. This includes short-term rental properties, meaning visitors are not allowed to dock their boats at these docks. The Title 36 Code of Federal Regulations, the Beaver Lake Shoreline Management Plan, and the real estate agreement with the Army Corps of Engineers all support this policy.

This rule is in place to prevent the commercialisation of private docks, which could lead to safety and crowding issues on the lake. Beaver Lake has a limited capacity for boats, and the USACE aims to preserve its natural beauty and ensure safe boating for all. As of 2020, Beaver Lake was no longer accepting requests for private floating facilities or boat docks, including marina boat slips.

For those with short-term rental properties on Beaver Lake, it is important to inform guests about this restriction. While visitors cannot use private docks, they can take advantage of shore parking options, such as tying their boats to a four-by-four post in the yard. Additionally, they can explore boat rental options at nearby marinas, such as Starkey Marina, which offers rentals for fishing, tubing, and cruising.

Beaver Lake is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors while also maintaining the natural beauty of the area. By following the docking policies for short-term rentals, property owners and guests can contribute to the preservation of Beaver Lake's charm and ensure a positive experience for everyone.

Scuba diving classes at Beaver Lake

Beaver Lake, located near Eureka Springs, Arkansas, is an excellent spot for scuba diving, boasting some of the clearest water in the state. The lake's length and depth allow sediment from the White River and Richland Creek to sink further down and over a longer period, ensuring optimal visibility for divers.

The Beaver Dam Dive Shop & Resort offers scuba diving classes for beginners and experienced divers alike. The resort's expert instructors provide a safe and memorable experience, helping divers earn their PADI Scuba Diving certification, which opens doors to underwater exploration across the globe.

The dive sites around Beaver Lake feature unique attractions, including automobiles, a sailboat, a double-deck boat, an airplane fuselage, a makeshift submarine, and various other oddities. The lake is also home to a diverse range of aquatic life, including Long-ear sunfish, Large Mouth Bass, Catfish, Gar, Crappie, and more.

The Beaver Dam Dive Shop & Resort offers comfortable and affordable accommodations, including an RV campground and a motel, making it a convenient and relaxing destination for scuba diving enthusiasts.

• Open Water Diving Certification: This course is designed for beginners looking to explore the world of scuba diving. It covers the fundamental skills and knowledge needed to dive safely in open water environments.
• Advanced Open Water Diving Certification: For divers who have already completed the open water course, this advanced certification allows them to refine their skills and explore more challenging dive sites.
• Rescue Diving Certification: This course focuses on emergency response and rescue techniques, equipping divers with the skills to handle a range of underwater situations and assist others in need.

In addition to these certifications, the resort also offers specialty courses, such as wreck diving and deep dive specialty certifications, which allow divers to explore unique attractions like the Mayhem sailboat and sunken houses.

The scuba diving classes at Beaver Lake provide a comprehensive and engaging learning experience. Divers can expect to gain knowledge and skills in equipment handling, underwater navigation, buoyancy control, and environmental awareness, all while exploring the lake's breathtaking underwater world.

With its clear waters, diverse aquatic life, and array of sunken attractions, Beaver Lake offers a truly unique and memorable scuba diving experience for enthusiasts of all levels. The Beaver Dam Dive Shop & Resort's commitment to safety, comfort, and instruction ensures that divers can confidently explore the depths and discover the beauty that lies beneath.

Boat rental options at Beaver Lake

Beaver Lake in Arkansas offers a range of boat rental options for visitors and locals alike. From powerboats to fishing boats, there are several choices available to suit different needs and preferences. Here is an overview of the boat rental options typically found at Beaver Lake:

Powerboats

For those seeking a thrilling experience on the water, powerboats are an ideal choice. These boats are perfect for activities such as wakeboarding, tubing, and cruising. At Beaver Lake, you can rent a captained Malibu Wake Surf Boat, which can accommodate up to eight guests. This option is perfect for larger groups looking to enjoy a range of water sports and activities. The rates for this boat rental typically start at $75 per hour, and it offers an unforgettable experience with a skilled captain at the helm.

Fishing Boats

Beaver Lake is also a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts. The lake offers fishing boat rentals, such as the 16-foot Jon Boat with an 18 HP engine. This boat is perfect for a small group of up to four anglers, providing a comfortable and well-equipped space for a day of fishing. Fishing boats at Beaver Lake often come with essential features such as live wells, swivel seats, fish finders, and storage racks, ensuring a productive and enjoyable fishing experience.

Pontoon Boats

Pontoon boats are another popular rental option at Beaver Lake. These boats offer a versatile experience, catering to various activities such as swimming and leisure cruising. The 20-foot, 90 HP fishing pontoon is an excellent choice, featuring amenities like a collapsible canopy, a cushioned tanning deck, wrap-around lounge seating, and a stereo system. This boat can also be tailored for fishing excursions, with specialised equipment available upon request. The 21-foot and 22-foot touring pontoons are similar options, providing ample space and comfort for exploring the lake with friends and family.

Docking Policies

It is important to note that Beaver Lake has specific policies regarding boat docking. While private docks are not permitted for commercial use, there are docking options available for renters and guests of Beaver Lakefront Cabins. These docks are exclusively for guests staying at the cabins and their visitors, offering a convenient and secure mooring option during their visit.

Beaver Lake offers a diverse range of boat rental options to cater to different interests and group sizes. Whether you're seeking a thrilling powerboat experience, a relaxing cruise, or a fishing expedition, there are rentals available to make your time on the lake memorable and enjoyable. Always remember to familiarise yourself with the lake's policies and safety guidelines to ensure a smooth and pleasant boating experience.

The lake's boating capacity and how it is enforced

The lakes boating capacity and how it is enforced

Beaver Lake in Arkansas is a popular destination for boating and other water activities. However, the lake has a limited boating capacity, and measures have been implemented to ensure safe and enjoyable experiences for all visitors.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is responsible for managing the boating capacity at Beaver Lake. In 2016, they initiated a study to determine the lake's boating capacity and ensure the safety and enjoyment of visitors. The study, completed in 2018, evaluated current lake use during peak boating periods and boaters' perspectives on safety and crowding. It established that the lake could safely accommodate 1,689 boats on the water at any given time.

To maintain this capacity, the USACE has enforced regulations regarding private docks and boat slips. They are no longer accepting requests for private floating facilities or boat docks, as the number of boats on the lake has already reached its limit. This decision was made to preserve the natural beauty of the lake and ensure the safety of boaters.

The USACE's policy also prohibits guests from using private docks or docking their boats at short-term rental properties. This rule is in place to prevent commercial activities at private docks, which could disrupt the peaceful atmosphere of the lake. Only marinas and resorts are allowed to conduct commercial activities, as they have the necessary leases from the USACE.

The enforcement of boating capacity at Beaver Lake has sparked varying responses. Some individuals express concern that it will negatively impact businesses, while others applaud the decision for preserving the lake's natural beauty. Despite these differing opinions, the USACE remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all visitors to Beaver Lake.

To accommodate visitors with boats, Beaver Lake offers boat rentals and various water sport rental options, such as stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, and canoes. Additionally, scuba diving classes are available for those interested in exploring the deep and clear waters of the lake.

Private floating facilities and boat docks at Beaver Lake

Beaver Lake in Arkansas is a popular destination for summertime fun, with activities such as fishing, boating, scuba diving, water skiing, paddling, and swimming. The lake is known for its excellent fishing spots, and visitors can rent boats or bring their own.

Boat Dock Services

Northwest Arkansas Shoreline Boat Dock has been in business since 2004 and provides a range of services for boat docks on Beaver Lake. They offer new dock construction, dock repair, dock watch, boat lifts, swim decks, existing dock add-ons, solar systems, dock demolitions, and more. They also provide dock monitoring, ensuring your dock is raised or lowered according to water levels.

Boat Rentals

Starkey Marina, a family-owned business, offers boat rentals for various activities, including fishing, tubing, and cruising. Rentals are available for half or full-day reservations, and they also have an on-site convenience store and pizza. Float Eureka offers stand-up paddleboard, kayak, and canoe rentals, with standard and inflatable options available.

Scuba Diving

The Beaver Dam Dive Shop provides scuba diving classes for those wanting to explore the deep and clear waters of Beaver Lake. They offer everything needed to obtain a PADI certification.

Cabins

Can-U-Canoe Riverview Cabins offers Eureka Springs cabins with panoramic views of the river, valley, and rolling Ozarks. The cabins provide privacy and are ideal for romantic getaways, with most featuring private outdoor hot tubs.

It is important to note that Beaver Lake has reached its capacity for private floating facilities and boat docks. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is no longer accepting requests for new facilities or modifications to existing ones. This decision was made to preserve the safety and natural beauty of the lake.

Frequently asked questions