Riverfront camping near Bull Shoals, Arkansas centers around the White River and Bull Shoals Lake. The water temperature remains around 40 degrees year-round below the dam, creating distinctive morning fog patterns that affect camping conditions in riverside locations. Campsite availability varies seasonally, with most riverside locations requiring reservations several months in advance during peak fishing season from April through October.
What to do
**Eagle watching: Near Blue Heron Campground, visitors can spot eagles hunting along the river. "We got to Eagle watch all day as they circled the river hunting for their dinner. It was AMAZING!!" reports Shana D.
**Hiking trails: Multiple hiking options exist within 10-15 minutes of most campsites. "The Big Bluff trail, at 1 1/2 miles is a good workout," notes Chad K. who visited Bull Shoals-White River State Park.
**Cave exploration: Head to Buffalo Point where campers discovered hidden features. "We found a cool cave at the far right end of the rock beach," writes Susan R., who recommends checking water levels before exploring, as the river can rise rapidly after rainfall.
**Wildlife viewing: Deer are abundant in campgrounds throughout the area. At Lakeview - Bull Shoals Lake, campers report frequent deer sightings. "Trees almost give it a forest feel and deer were everywhere!" according to Staci F.
What campers like
Riverside access: The ability to wade directly from campsites into the White River draws many visitors. "We were able to hike and fish most days...We loved having the steps right beside our camper - could walk down to the river and sit on the rock beach," notes Susan R. at Buffalo Point.
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness ranks high in camper preferences. Wayne P. at Lakeview appreciates the "good water and electric hook up. Dump station has two stalls and is in great shape."
Site spacing: Most Bull Shoals area campgrounds offer good separation between sites. At Into the Woods RV Park, campers find "spaces are very well spaced. 30-50 feet between RV sites," according to Brandeninto W.
Concrete pads: Many campsites feature level concrete pads. At Blue Heron Campground, Jodie C. notes the "excellent concrete pads with easy back-in markings for RVs. Great cement patio so there is no mud in case of rain."
What you should know
Water level changes: Bull Shoals Dam releases significantly impact river access. "The waters temperature will cause areas near the water to get cold," warns Morgan T., while Susan R. observed the water at Buffalo Point "had gone up 12 feet by Saturday night and Sunday morning it was 13 feet."
Road noise: Some riverfront campgrounds experience traffic noise. Jennifer O. at Blue Heron reports "LOTS of noise. It died down after 8pm and before 8am and we couldn't hear it in our camper so it was ok."
Fishing guide recommendations: While bank fishing is possible, guided trips yield better results. "We chartered the afternoon with a local outfitter and had a great time. We caught a number of trout and were able to eat them for dinner," shares Ryan S.
Limited shade at some locations: Denton Ferry RV Park & Cabin Rental campers note seasonal considerations: "This is probably an excellent site in spring or fall. However summertime is hot at the site because of the lack of shade trees," advises Jaynee S.
Tips for camping with families
Look for camp-organized activities: Some parks offer ranger-led educational programs. "We went to an owl talk and a bear talk that was very informative. We also did the lake cruise," shares Shannon M. who visited Bull Shoals-White River State Park with family.
Choose campgrounds with play areas: Several campsites include recreational facilities. Ryan S. notes, "There is a playground and a basketball court that are functional and easy to access for families."
Consider cabin options: For families new to camping, cabins offer comfortable alternatives. At Copper Johns Resort, Wolfgang M. appreciates the "outdoor kitchens and really nice private bath/showers which are air-conditioned in summer and heated in winter."
Flat terrain for biking: Many campgrounds feature level grounds suitable for children's bikes. "The campground is mostly flat which makes it very easy to ride a bike. There were a lot of kids and adults riding bikes or scooters in the campground," reports Ryan S.
Tips from RVers
Water hookup distances: At some campgrounds, utility connections may require extra equipment. "The water hookup was quite a distance from the site and had to use three hoses to make it reach," notes Krissy C. at Lakeview.
Marina proximity matters: RVers with boats should select sites near water access points. Lakeview campground is "located in a great spot on the beautiful Bull Shoals Lake. Select from single, double or triple sites if you want to stay with friends/family," recommends Shana D.
Best riverfront access: Sites directly on the White River offer premium experiences. "Step out of your RV and you will see some of the most beautiful scenery anywhere," describes Wanda S. at Blue Heron Campground.
Verify RV pad length: Most sites accommodate mid-sized RVs, but confirm specific limitations. Wayne J. advises, "Be sure and view the campsite online and consider the direction of the site. Some get full sun in the morning but most are shaded in the evening due to the mountain."
