Monte Ne is one of Northwest Arkansas’s most fascinating historical curiosities — the ruins of a grand early-1900s resort that now sit, partly submerged, along the shore of Beaver Lake southeast of Rogers. Built by the eccentric visionary William H. “Coin” Harvey, Monte Ne once drew visitors from across the country. Today its haunting concrete ruins — and Harvey’s own tomb — make it a compelling stop for history buffs and the curious.
The Story of Monte Ne
Founded in 1900 by William Hope “Coin” Harvey — a nationally known writer, economic crusader, and one-time presidential candidate — Monte Ne was an ambitious resort town about five miles southeast of Rogers. In its heyday it boasted what were said to be the world’s largest log hotels (Oklahoma Row and Missouri Row), a bank, a golf course, and even its own railroad spur, with guests arriving by train and gondola.
Later in life, Harvey grew convinced that civilization was collapsing, and set out to build a towering concrete pyramid to preserve human knowledge for future generations. Funds ran out and the pyramid was never built — but the great amphitheater meant to sit beside it was completed, and in 1931 it hosted the national convention that nominated Harvey for president on the Liberty Party ticket. He died in 1936 and was entombed on the property.
What You Can See Today
When Beaver Lake was created in the 1960s, much of Monte Ne was flooded. What remains depends heavily on the lake level:
- Harvey’s Tomb — the most visible and best-preserved remnant, above the waterline.
- Oklahoma Row — the foundation and basement of one of the great log hotels; when the water is low you can walk inside.
- Missouri Row — a surviving fireplace, chimney, foundation, and retaining wall.
- The amphitheater — usually underwater, it rises from the lake during droughts (typically late fall or winter), a genuinely eerie sight.
For the full story and preserved artifacts — including a concrete chair from the amphitheater, a model of the planned pyramid, and Harvey’s death mask — visit the Rogers Historical Museum.
Good to Know Before You Go
- Best time to visit: Fall and winter, when low lake levels expose the most ruins. In high water, only the tomb and upper foundations are visible.
- Access: The ruins are near the end of Monte Ne Road on Beaver Lake; footing is uneven and can be muddy or slick — wear sturdy shoes and be cautious near the water.
- Respect the site: This is a fragile historic ruin — look, photograph, but don’t remove or deface anything.
- Great for: History lovers, photographers, and anyone drawn to the offbeat.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Monte Ne?
Monte Ne was an early-1900s resort town southeast of Rogers, built by William H. “Coin” Harvey. Much of it was flooded when Beaver Lake was built, and its concrete ruins now sit along and beneath the lake.
Can you still see the Monte Ne ruins?
Yes — Harvey’s tomb and upper foundations are usually visible, and much more (including the amphitheater) emerges when Beaver Lake drops during droughts, typically in late fall or winter.
Where is Monte Ne?
About five miles southeast of Rogers, Arkansas, near the end of Monte Ne Road on the shore of Beaver Lake.
Location & Directions
- Location: Monte Ne Rd, Rogers, AR 72758 (Beaver Lake shore, ~5 miles SE of Rogers)
- Cost: Free | Best time: Low-water months (fall/winter)
Explore more in our guide to Things to Do in Rogers.
