In 1998 alone, more than 4 million people used Beaver Lake for recreation. Thousands of pleasure boaters, water skiers and personal water-craft owners took advantage of the lake. There are 11 Army Corps of Engineer parks along the lake's shores, with 691 overnight campsites available for everything from tents to motor-homes. Many parks also have day-use facilities. In addition, seven commercial marina facilities operate along the lake providing fuel and supplies.
Recreation makes a significant contribution to the area's economy.
In our society, water quality is considered from many different points of view. Water may be fine for swimming but not for drinking. Beaver Lake provides clean, fresh water to meet many needs. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, during 1990-1998, desired phosphorous levels were exceeded in 25 percent of their samples and desired dissolved oxygen levels were exceeded in 27 percent of their samples. In addition, individual swimming areas have been temporarily closed on occasion due to excessive bacteria levels.