The 625-acre Bear Creek Lake was constructed atop Crowley's Ridge in east central Arkansas in 1938. It lies within the north end of the St. Francis National Forest, and two national scenic byways - the Great River Road and the Crowley's Ridge Parkway, pass nearby.

Anglers visit the lake in search of its largemouth bass, bluegill, red-ear sunfish and blue and channel catfish. Abundant wildlife readily seen in the national forest includes whitetail deer, squirrel, raccoon, rabbit, wild turkey and a wide variety of other birds.

Swimming and hiking are available at the lake, as are three campgrounds (41 individual campsites and one group site) that remain open year-round. No bathhouses are available and the campgrounds rely on vault-style toilets. The only hook-ups available are for water at 17 campsites.