Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Bull Shoals, AR has a lot to offer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Find the best campgrounds near Bull Shoals, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.
This recreation area is part of Bull Shoals Lake
Buffalo Point is a convenient, fun-filled destination for families and adventurists of all types. It's perched along the Buffalo National River, providing exciting river sports and hiking opportunities. In peak season, a restaurant is open at the facility, serving up meals for those who want a break from preparing them.
The wild river is a gathering place for water activities. Many campers spend their days fishing, hiking, canoeing or kayaking. Evenings are ideal for gathering next to the fire to revamp for another great day out on the river.
The campground is set along Buffalo National River, one of the few free-flowing rivers remaining in the contiguous United States. The river runs 135 miles without dams and cuts through the Arkansas Ozarks and into the White River. The region is surrounded by droves of lush hardwood trees and grassy open meadows.
Two popular attractions within the Buffalo Point Area are the Indian Rockhouse Trail and the Rush Historic District. Rush was a zinc mining community until the zinc market collapsed and the settlement was deserted. Tours about the town's history are available. Buffalo Point is the former Buffalo River State Park developed in the 1930's as project of the Civilian Conservation Corps. Blanchard Springs Caverns, an extraordinary living cave, is a one-hour drive from Buffalo Point.
Please see the Recreation.gov Rules and Reservation Policies.
$50 / night
Blue Heron Campground provides the pleasure of a natural Ozark setting without leaving the beaten path. Forget about traveling miles of back roads to reach that special camping spot. Our RV park is just off the highway and right on the banks of the White River, a premier trout fishing destination. This is RV camping at its finest. You can fish, bird watch, or simply enjoy the Ozark Mountains scenery.
Lakeview Park Campground is located on Bull Shoals Lake. Set in the scenic Ozark Mountains of northern Arkansas and southern Missouri, the lake has hundreds of miles of lake arms and coves perfect for boating, water sports, swimming, fishing and scuba diving. The lake also appeals to birders, naturalists, hunters and visitors seeking a fun and peaceful place to relax along the water.
The lake is a water sports paradise. Marinas offer boat rentals, supplies and guides for hire. Year-round fishing tournaments keep fishermen active as they seek out 12-pound bass and other species ranging from pan fish to walleye. The lake holds several state fishing records and the nearby White River is a premier trout fishery in the central United States. There is also a 1.5-mile nature trail that begins in the campground.
Lakeview is a large park with wooded campsites on a bluff overlooking the water. The lake and surrounding mountains are popular year-round as each season unfolds a new panorama. Summer contrasts lush green hardwoods and cedar glades against towering rocky bluffs and unusual rock formations. Fall foliage presents the renowned "flaming fall revue." Watching and photographing wildlife can be enjoyed in developed and undeveloped areas alike. Each year more than 100 bald eagles winter in the Bull Shoals area.
Cruise around the lake to see nearly 20 other public parks and hundreds of miles of undeveloped land and coves around the lake, which include additional swim areas and 11 marinas.
Cancellations up to 2 days before a reservation start date incur a $10.00 cancellation fee.
$22 - $40 / night
Table Rock State Park has two campgrounds and offers basic, electric and sewer/electric/water campsites. For a little extra space, try one of the park's family campsites or a platform tent site for a unique camping experience. Get everything you need for your stay at the park store.
$12 - $42 / night
Ozark Campground is a first come, first serve campground near Jasper, AR. Ozark has 31 drive in and tent sites with no electrical amenities, but flush restrooms and water are available from March 15 through November 14.
Blanchard Springs Recreation Area is located in the scenic Ozark National Forest. The Ozark Mountains are known for beautiful "rolling" hills, hidden caverns, waterfalls and clear flowing streams. Examples of early Ozark culture and music can be found throughout the region. Blanchard recreation area is a great starting point for an Ozark adventure.
Trout fishing is available on nearby Mirror Lake. Other popular activities in the Blanchard area include mountain biking, hiking and swimming.
Trout fishing is available on nearby Mirror Lake. Other popular activities in the Blanchard area include mountain biking, hiking and swimming.
The facilities are near picturesque rock bluffs and crystal clear streams. Sites are well shaded by stately yellow pine trees.
Blanchard Springs Caverns offers tours, exhibits and family activities. North Sylamore hiking trail follows the scenic Sylamore creek for 25 miles and connects to the Ozark Highland trail. Mountain biking is available on 50 miles of the Syllamo Mountain Bike Trail.
$15 / night
Dam Quarry Campground is an angler's paradise. Located in northern Arkansas, just downstream of the Norfork Dam, the campground is renowned for its world-class trout fishing. The Norfork Lake region was one of the state's first water recreation areas with opportunities like water skiing, canoeing, scuba diving, and of course, fishing.
While fishing is the top-rated activity in the lower river area, kayaking, birding and hiking are also very popular. The public land around Norfork keeps hunters busy with white-tailed deer, wild turkey, squirrel, rabbit and quail.
The campground sits at the banks of the North Fork River and Dry Run Creek. The river feeds the popular 22,000-acre Norfork Lake, which is just upstream from Dam Quarry. The site has beautiful views of the forested hills and hollows of the Ozarks.
A short drive south takes visitors to the Ozark National Forest for sightseeing and wildlife spotting. The campground is also just three miles northeast of the small town of Norfork.
Cancellations up to 2 days before a reservation start date incur a $10.00 cancellation fee.
$50 / night
Gamaliel Campground is conveniently located on the Bennetts Bayou area of Norfork Lake. Most sites are shaded beneath tall trees, while others come equipped with canopies to shade the picnic tables. Norfork Lake boasts plenty of secluded coves for water sports and breezy, open stretches for sailing. There are 19 well-maintained Army Corps of Engineers parks along the lake for bountiful water sport opportunities.
Explore the mile-long nature trail that loops from the campground. Sailing the open waters makes for an exciting water activity. Scuba diving in the lake is common, attracting divers from neighboring U.S. states. For visitors interested in fishing, Norfork Lake is stocked annually, and it's not unheard of to catch striped bass over 40 pounds.
Norfork Lake stems from the North Fork River in northern Arkansas. It's about 25 miles east of Bull Shoals lake, and cuts through the Ozark Mountains. The Ozarks are made from a heavily eroded plateau, shaped and carved by hundreds of streams over thousands of years. The region attracts a wide array of plants and animals.
Head south to see the Ozark National Forest and head west to see Bull Shoals Lake, a similar man-made lake that's larger in size and equally entertaining as Norfork.
Cancellations up to 2 days before a reservation start date incur a $10.00 cancellation fee.
$50 / night
Buffalo Point is a convenient, fun-filled destination for families and adventurists of all types. It's perched along the Buffalo National River, providing exciting river sports and hiking opportunities. In peak season, a restaurant is open at the facility, serving up meals for those who want a break from preparing them.
The wild river is a gathering place for water activities. Many campers spend their days fishing, hiking, canoeing or kayaking. Evenings are ideal for gathering next to the fire to revamp for another great day out on the river.
The campground is set along Buffalo National River, one of the few free-flowing rivers remaining in the contiguous United States. The river runs 135 miles without dams and cuts through the Arkansas Ozarks and into the White River. The region is surrounded by droves of lush hardwood trees and grassy open meadows.
Two popular attractions within the Buffalo Point Area are the Indian Rockhouse Trail and the Rush Historic District. Rush was a zinc mining community until the zinc market collapsed and the settlement was deserted. Tours about the town's history are available. Buffalo Point is the former Buffalo River State Park developed in the 1930's as project of the Civilian Conservation Corps. Blanchard Springs Caverns, an extraordinary living cave, is a one-hour drive from Buffalo Point.
Please see the Recreation.gov Rules and Reservation Policies.
$50 / night
Blue Heron Campground provides the pleasure of a natural Ozark setting without leaving the beaten path. Forget about traveling miles of back roads to reach that special camping spot. Our RV park is just off the highway and right on the banks of the White River, a premier trout fishing destination. This is RV camping at its finest. You can fish, bird watch, or simply enjoy the Ozark Mountains scenery.
Lakeview Park Campground is located on Bull Shoals Lake. Set in the scenic Ozark Mountains of northern Arkansas and southern Missouri, the lake has hundreds of miles of lake arms and coves perfect for boating, water sports, swimming, fishing and scuba diving. The lake also appeals to birders, naturalists, hunters and visitors seeking a fun and peaceful place to relax along the water.
The lake is a water sports paradise. Marinas offer boat rentals, supplies and guides for hire. Year-round fishing tournaments keep fishermen active as they seek out 12-pound bass and other species ranging from pan fish to walleye. The lake holds several state fishing records and the nearby White River is a premier trout fishery in the central United States. There is also a 1.5-mile nature trail that begins in the campground.
Lakeview is a large park with wooded campsites on a bluff overlooking the water. The lake and surrounding mountains are popular year-round as each season unfolds a new panorama. Summer contrasts lush green hardwoods and cedar glades against towering rocky bluffs and unusual rock formations. Fall foliage presents the renowned "flaming fall revue." Watching and photographing wildlife can be enjoyed in developed and undeveloped areas alike. Each year more than 100 bald eagles winter in the Bull Shoals area.
Cruise around the lake to see nearly 20 other public parks and hundreds of miles of undeveloped land and coves around the lake, which include additional swim areas and 11 marinas.
Cancellations up to 2 days before a reservation start date incur a $10.00 cancellation fee.
$22 - $40 / night
Blanchard Springs Recreation Area is located in the scenic Ozark National Forest. The Ozark Mountains are known for beautiful "rolling" hills, hidden caverns, waterfalls and clear flowing streams. Examples of early Ozark culture and music can be found throughout the region. Blanchard recreation area is a great starting point for an Ozark adventure.
Trout fishing is available on nearby Mirror Lake. Other popular activities in the Blanchard area include mountain biking, hiking and swimming.
Trout fishing is available on nearby Mirror Lake. Other popular activities in the Blanchard area include mountain biking, hiking and swimming.
The facilities are near picturesque rock bluffs and crystal clear streams. Sites are well shaded by stately yellow pine trees.
Blanchard Springs Caverns offers tours, exhibits and family activities. North Sylamore hiking trail follows the scenic Sylamore creek for 25 miles and connects to the Ozark Highland trail. Mountain biking is available on 50 miles of the Syllamo Mountain Bike Trail.
$15 / night
Dam Quarry Campground is an angler's paradise. Located in northern Arkansas, just downstream of the Norfork Dam, the campground is renowned for its world-class trout fishing. The Norfork Lake region was one of the state's first water recreation areas with opportunities like water skiing, canoeing, scuba diving, and of course, fishing.
While fishing is the top-rated activity in the lower river area, kayaking, birding and hiking are also very popular. The public land around Norfork keeps hunters busy with white-tailed deer, wild turkey, squirrel, rabbit and quail.
The campground sits at the banks of the North Fork River and Dry Run Creek. The river feeds the popular 22,000-acre Norfork Lake, which is just upstream from Dam Quarry. The site has beautiful views of the forested hills and hollows of the Ozarks.
A short drive south takes visitors to the Ozark National Forest for sightseeing and wildlife spotting. The campground is also just three miles northeast of the small town of Norfork.
Cancellations up to 2 days before a reservation start date incur a $10.00 cancellation fee.
$50 / night
Traveler
We stayed here over Thanksgiving. The campground was about 1/3 full . The people working here are very nice! I think the campground would get a 5 if there were more pull-thru sites and the bath houses were a little more updated. We will definitely stay here again when in Branson.
Traveler
Quiet in December. Good shower and laundry facilities.
Scout
Blue Heron cabin was awesome! It was so so clean, and beautiful! Over looking the water can’t get any better! The cabin was so nice! Michael was great to work with and very professional and very nice! Can’t wait till next time ❤️
Guide
Right in town but actually quite. Bathrooms very clean nice laundry area and cheap.
Guide
Stayed 3 nights. Weekend had a few family gatherings near us, but the weekdays we pretty much had the place to ourselves. Campground is well maintained with beautiful views of Table Rock Lake. We were in upper section (electric only) - the lower section next to the marina has full hookups. There are a few pull-through, but most sites are back-in and long enough for al most any rig.
Scout
While it was pretty last year (the reason it was my first pick this year) the owner uses Marissa, Jamie and Serena as his own personal shield to avoid taking responsibility for his business, and all of them are rude as all get out. Marissa promised multiple times that the owner would call me, and kept changing when exactly that would be. Two days later, I have NEVER heard from him, despite him being fully aware he needed to contact me. I ended up having the credit card company cancel the charge.
And omg, the shower house. Bring a space heater. It's an open air shed with exposed pvc and no drain. I can't imagine how it operates in the winter.
If you come in October, expect loud screaming, gun shots and chainsaws for THREE HOURS at night from one of their events your probably won't be told about til you arrive. Greg deserves to have this place fail.
Traveler
The location is great. This park is in between Walmart and the river. Area Code The downtown is only a few minutes away and they are always having singing at the park in the beautiful outdoor areas.
GuideGreat trip. Beautiful campground. Beautiful scenery
Guide
Great trip. Beautiful campground. Beautiful scenery
Guide
Right on Highway good for campers
Guide
Great trip. Beautiful campground. Beautiful scenery
Scout
This campground had the potential to be amazing- it's beautiful, is right next to the river with amazing views of the stars, and has several hikes close by. But the camp hosts and rangers don't enforce any sort of quiet time or people capacity rules. So unfortunately my partner and I had a group of probably 20 people camping next to us. They brought in a DJ car(open the trunk and it had huge speakers and running lights) to bump techno music during the day, and at night they set up a movie projector and large screen and watched horror movies late into the night. It's not serene when there are 8 tents, a crowd of people, and horror movie screaming right beside you all day and night. I even went and talked to the camp hosts but nothing was done. So, I don't recommend this place. Usually I camp to unwind and chill, but I left the weekend more frazzled and exhausted than I came.
ScoutYou will love this campground. It's a beautiful rv resort next to the water. Step out of your rv and you will see some of the most beautiful scenery anywhere in the United States. Michael is the director of the campground and he is so very helpful and congenial. We travel to many states but this campground is our very favorite and if you like or love to fish, this is your place! Go see for yourselves and we will probably see you there!!
Wanda and Pete Shurow
Guide
Everything about this campground is fantastic. The lake surrounds the point, the sites are cleverly designed, the October crowd is quiet and friendly, it's near Branson, strong Verizon signal.
Guide
This beautiful campground in classic Ozark hardwoods is a haven for things with motors. Bikes, ATVs, gold carts, all manners of off-road thingies, and the louder the better. At the same time, it was clean, folks were respectful, and it was quiet after dark. Enough Verizon signal to get Facebook. Some sites have electricity.
LegendWe loved our stay at Blue Heron. We had a riverfront spot and really just came to chill not fish but it’s a fishing location. White river is trout paradise so if you’re an angler this is where it’s at. Campground was SUPER clean. Best level pads and hookups we’ve ever seen. Firewood and ice for sale. Everything was absolutely perfect except the road noise….which in all fairness we knew about. LOTS of noise. It died down after 8pm and before 8am and we couldn’t hear it in our camper so it’s was ok.
Legend
Decent campground with excellent trout fishing! The campground layout was kinda weird and the dump station was in an odd spot. However, we had a nice river front site that we really enjoyed. Lots of nice people in the campground and on the river. Be sure to visit the hatchery across the street. . Limited AT&T service. Individual Private suite style bathrooms. Playground. No store, no firewood for sale. Level sites. Several sites have covers over the picnic tables. .
ScoutThis location has been a great place. It is clean and well maintained. The staff is friendly and the area is peaceful. We would recommend this place to anyone looking for a campground in Branson Mo. It is also a short and scenic drive to what ever suites you in Branson.
Guide
We really enjoyed our stay here! It was the week after Labor Day and was mostly vacant, making for a quiet stay. Love the amenities for kids! The only reason I give 4 stars is the dog policy— it’s very strict, and there isn’t a dog park type area to let pets off leash to play & get energy out.
Guide
Easy in and out. Convenient to activities. Friendly folks
GuideAn update since all other reviews are a couple of years old. Nothing has changed. Except I imagine the price! Accurately depicted above. A bit of road noise, which comes with the convenience. Clean. Friendly. A bit packed in there as far as the sites go. Site 42 is empty and looks like a winner to me. Town has plenty to offer for stocking up on a trip. We would stay again if passing through.
Traveler
This was our first time coming to Arkansas and boy was this an amazing spot to camp for the first time. This is a very secluded site and while we were there, only a handful of people were there too. The few hour hike to the two waterfalls was spectacular. It’s definitely not an easy hike but worth it to see what we got to see. So incredibly quiet as well. It’s pretty far out in the middle of nowhere so be prepared. Roads getting there were a little rough so more ideal for trucks or suvs but I saw little cars make it down there just fine just be careful. It’s all gravel and dirt for quite a while. There are bathrooms on site but they are porthole.
Overall a beautiful little place and we plan on going back very soon!
Traveler
No amenities other than composting toilets. There are a few tent sites along the road and there is plenty of grassy area near the creek for RVs/trailers. This is a horse camp with plenty of evidence, but it was only us and a couple of other tent campers.
The creek was obviously spring fed, crystal clear and had a gravelly bottom. There were plenty of places to get in the water...understanding that this is horse camp.
The place was well maintained and mowed and it was super peaceful and quiet. The main annoyance was some trash in fire pits along the creek.
If you consider this as a waypoint, two things:
1. There is about a mile of dusty, gravel road that is a little rough.
2. We had great T-Mobile 10 miles south, but it dropped to zero by the time we drove into camp.
Guide
This RV pad is located on a secluded 10 acre Homestead that the owners also rent out the upstairs to their Mediterranean style home on Airbnb. We rented their RV site and was welcomed by the owners upon arrival. Very private & secluded with easy access. Surrounded by trees on 10 acres of land with lots of wildlife. the homesteaders have chickens & a seasonal garden, beautiful fire pit area and plenty of open space to put out your cornhole games and set up your volleyball, badminton nets and whatever activities you have. Centrally located to Branson, Missouri, Eureka Springs, Arkansas, Bull Shoals lake and the Buffalo national River.
ScoutI have not really been able to use it just checking it out
ScoutThis is our 5-6 year to stay here. Over the years, we have seen so many b improvements to this area.. it’s always a great time. Michael, the host, is just an all around great guy. We are looking forward to our next stay
Guide
Camping Review: A Slice of Paradise
If you're looking for the ultimate escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, I can't recommend this camping spot highly enough. Nestled in a remote area, far from the chaos of civilization, this campsite offers a rejuvenating experience that feels like a breath of fresh air.
From the moment I arrived, I was greeted by the serene sounds of nature—the rustling leaves, the distant chirping of birds, and the gentle flow of the Buffalo River nearby. With no cell service, it was liberating to disconnect from the digital world and immerse myself in the beauty around me.
The campsite itself was impeccably maintained, with spacious sites that allowed for privacy and a true sense of seclusion. Each morning, I awoke to breathtaking sunrises that painted the sky in hues of orange and pink, a perfect start to a day filled with adventure.
During my stay, I hiked along the winding trails, discovering hidden waterfalls and panoramic views that took my breath away. The evenings were spent gathered around the campfire, sharing stories and roasting marshmallows under a blanket of stars that seemed to shine brighter than ever.
The lack of modern distractions was refreshing, allowing me to fully appreciate the simple pleasures of life—like the crackling fire and the warmth of good company. Whether you're an experienced camper or a beginner, this remote getaway is perfect for anyone looking to recharge and reconnect with nature.
In summary, if you're seeking a peaceful retreat where you can truly escape the world, this camping spot is the best of the best. Pack your gear, leave your worries behind, and prepare for an unforgettable adventure in nature's embrace!
Camping near Bull Shoals, Arkansas, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors. With beautiful lakes, rivers, and plenty of campgrounds, there's something for everyone.
Camping around Bull Shoals, Arkansas, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking a peaceful spot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Bull Shoals, AR?
According to TheDyrt.com, Bull Shoals, AR offers a wide range of camping options, with 213 campgrounds and RV parks near Bull Shoals, AR and 10 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Bull Shoals, AR?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Bull Shoals, AR is Bull Shoals-White River State Park with a 4.7-star rating from 25 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Bull Shoals, AR?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 10 free dispersed camping spots near Bull Shoals, AR.
What parks are near Bull Shoals, AR?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 25 parks near Bull Shoals, AR that allow camping, notably Bull Shoals Lake and Greeson Lake.
