Blue Mountain Lake(Ashley Creek Recreation Area)

For dining near Blue Mountain Lake, several options are available. Cove Creek Country Store offers a mix of convenience store and American restaurant services, providing a cozy stop for travelers. The Skycrest Restaurant, located within Mount Magazine State Park, serves American cuisine with a focus on comfort food and offers a casual, cozy atmosphere. Mel's HWY 10 Cafe in Magazine is known for its casual dining experience, serving breakfast through dinner. Reid's Hometown Barbecue in Booneville is highly rated for its barbecue offerings, providing a family-friendly environment. Lastly, Lin’s Buffet Booneville offers a variety of Chinese dishes in an all-you-can-eat format.

Accommodations near Blue Mountain Lake include the upscale Mount Magazine Lodge, which offers polished rooms and suites with nature views, along with an indoor pool and dining options. For more budget-friendly options, the Countryside Inn and RV Park in Booneville provides motel-style accommodations with free Wi-Fi, catering to travelers seeking a simpler stay.

Blue Mountain Lake offers several amenities for visitors. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers provides modern campgrounds at the Outlet Area and Waveland Park, featuring tent and trailer spaces, electric and water hook-ups, showers, boat ramps, and fish-cleaning stations. Additionally, picnic areas and public restrooms are available at these sites. For those interested in camping, the nearby Waveland Park Recreation Area offers playgrounds and picnic facilities, making it suitable for family outings.

Blue Mountain Lake is a hub for outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, and swimming in the lake's expansive waters. The surrounding landscape offers excellent hiking opportunities, with trails available in the nearby Ouachita Mountains and Mount Magazine State Park. Camping is also a popular activity, with several campsites available around the lake. For bird enthusiasts, the Blue Mountain Wildlife Demonstration Area provides a unique experience with its bird dog field trials.

Blue Mountain Lake and its surrounding facilities offer some accessibility features. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' campgrounds and picnic areas typically include wheelchair-accessible restrooms and parking. Additionally, nearby restaurants like Cove Creek Country Store and The Skycrest Restaurant provide wheelchair-accessible entrances and seating areas, enhancing the overall accessibility of the area for visitors with disabilities.

Parking facilities at Blue Mountain Lake are generally accessible and convenient. The main access point at Waveland Park offers ample parking, and additional parking is available at Lick Creek and Ashley Creek, though these areas provide more limited access. Parking is free and usually plentiful, making it easy for visitors to find a spot near the lake's amenities.

Blue Mountain Lake is notable for its creation in 1947 as part of a flood control project, which has since become a popular recreational site. The lake attracts over 300 species of birds, making it a haven for birdwatchers. The surrounding area is rich in history, with the nearby town of Blue Mountain having been a significant settlement since the late 19th century. The lake's scenic beauty and diverse wildlife make it a unique destination in Arkansas.

Near Blue Mountain Lake, the most notable attraction is Mount Magazine State Park, which offers stunning views from its lodge, hiking trails, and opportunities for hang gliding and ATV riding. The Blue Mountain Wildlife Demonstration Area is another attraction, known for its bird dog field trials. The nearby towns of Booneville and Danville provide additional cultural and historical experiences for visitors.