Monte Ne Ruins | Rogers

Information

Landmark: Monte Ne Ruins
City: Rogers
Country: USA Arkansas
Continent: North America

Monte Ne Ruins, Rogers, USA Arkansas, North America

The Monte Ne Ruins are the remnants of a planned resort town located in Rogers, Arkansas, USA.

These ruins represent the submerged structures of a once-ambitious development project that was ultimately inundated by Beaver Lake.

Visual Characteristics

The primary visible elements are concrete foundations, retaining walls, and scattered structural debris. These are typically submerged, with portions becoming exposed during periods of low water levels in Beaver Lake. Exposed concrete exhibits a weathered, grey appearance, often covered in algae and aquatic vegetation. The surrounding area is characterized by the natural shoreline of the lake, with trees and brush typical of the Ozark region.

Location & Access Logistics

The Monte Ne Ruins are situated on the southern arm of Beaver Lake, approximately 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) east of downtown Rogers, Arkansas. Access is primarily by boat. Public boat ramps are available at Prairie Creek Marina (15000 N. State HWY 12, Rogers, AR 72756) and Rocky Branch Marina (16000 Rocky Branch Rd, Rogers, AR 72756). From these ramps, the ruins are approximately a 15-20 minute boat ride. There is no direct road access to the ruins themselves. Parking is available at the marinas.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Monte Ne was conceived by William Hope "Coin" Harvey in the early 20th century as a utopian resort and retirement community. Construction began in 1905. Harvey envisioned a grand city with hotels, a casino, and residential areas. The project faced financial difficulties and was never fully realized. The area was later submerged with the completion of the Beaver Lake Dam in 1966.

Key Highlights & Activities

Exploration of the submerged ruins is the primary activity, accessible only when lake levels are sufficiently low to expose the concrete structures. Boating and fishing are common in the surrounding lake waters. Scuba diving is possible for experienced divers when conditions permit.

Infrastructure & Amenities

No permanent infrastructure or amenities exist at the Monte Ne Ruins site itself. Restrooms, food vendors, and cell phone service are available at the nearby Prairie Creek and Rocky Branch Marinas. Shade is provided by natural tree cover along the lake shore when structures are exposed.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to view the ruins is during periods of exceptionally low water levels in Beaver Lake, typically occurring in late summer or during drought conditions. These low water periods are unpredictable. For boating and general lake activities, the months of May through October offer the most favorable weather.

Facts & Legends

One of the most notable structures intended for Monte Ne was the "Oklahoma," a large, pyramid-shaped building designed to house a hotel and convention center. While never completed, its concrete foundations are among the ruins visible during low water. Local lore suggests that some of the original construction materials were salvaged and used in other local buildings.