For those who want to get away from civilization for a weekend, but still want the comforts of home, consider renting a cabin for your Bull Shoals camping trip. The Dyrt can help you find the best cabin camping destinations for your next trip. When you're looking for a quiet location in nature, The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect cabin rental.
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.
$20 - $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.
Gaston's White River Resort began 59 years ago when Al Gaston, Jim Gaston's father, purchased 20 acres of White River frontage with six small cottages and six boats...the year was 1958. Present day, Jim’s grandson - Clint Gaston - will carry on the family legacy for many years to come. The resort now covers over 400 acres, and has 79 cottages ranging in size from two double beds to ten private bedrooms. The airstrip has grown from 1,800 feet to 3,200 feet. The six boats are now over 70, and with a state of the art dock to hold them all. The years have brought an award winning restaurant, private club, gift shop, tennis court, playground, game room, duck pond, three nature trails, swimming pool, conference lodge, and fly fishing school.
Tucked away on 13 acres but close to town. One mile east on 206 from the scenic 7S. Our beautiful campground has tent sites, water/electric sites, full service 30 and 50 amp rv sites which can handle the biggest of rigs, and beautiful camping and full service cabins. In addition, we have multiple restrooms and showers located throughout the campground which are immaculate. We have added a propane fill station and just finishing a splash pad for all to enjoy during the warmer months. Please visit our website to find out more.
Nestled in the beautiful Ozark Mountains, in historic Cotter, Arkansas, on the banks of the scenic White River...Denton Ferry RV Park & Cabin Rental offers a friendly, relaxing, fun-filled experience for everyone. If you want to fish for the various species of trout in the crystal clear water, the fishing here is world-renowned, and the facilities are top-notch.
Denton Ferry RV Park has been selected as Arkansas' BEST place to rv and camp in 2021. We are the area's only Good Sam RV Parks inspected, rated, and approved park. We offer private and easy wade-in access to the White River, and convenient boat access nearby. If you want to sight-see, hike, or simply take a stroll on our scenic 2.5 mi walking trail which ends up at the historic Cotter Big Spring Park. The natural beauty and wildlife of the area is truly amazing. We are an easily accessible campground near Cotter on Highway 62/412, in a quiet peaceful river valley away from the noise and flow of highway traffic.
Denton Ferry RV Park is conveniently located close to shopping, restaurants, points of interest (such as Branson, Eureka Springs, Mountain Home, Mountain View, Norfork, and many more), and a variety of activities for the whole family.
$45 - $65 / night
The beautiful Sonlight Campground & Cabins is the perfect locale for your weekend getaway, family reunion, company retreat, and more. Just minutes from Bull Shoals Lake, there's no shortage of activities for all ages.
SonLight has 23 campsites with full hook-ups (water, sewer, electric) and 1 with water and electric only. Each site has 30 and 50 amp electric service and their own fire ring (with grill on it) and picnic table. Wood and ice are available for purchase on-site.
Pets are allowed on campsites; they must be on-leash at all times.
Each cabin has one queen bed, twin bunk beds, mini-fridge, microwave, coffee maker (with filters, bring your favorite brew), toilet, shower, sink, A/C and heating, a ceiling fan, picnic table, and fire ring (with grill attached). The cabins comfortably accommodate four people. Smoking is not allowed. There is a dishwashing station just a few steps away on backside of Gathering Place, we ask that you do not do dishes in the cabins.
$35 - $65 / night
Guide
Beautiful area near the Buffalo National River. Lost Valley Canoe & Lodging has a yurt, campsites, cabins with hot tubs on the deck, bunkhouse, showers, allows pets, and is family owned. Loyal customers return year after year. Canoeing, kayaking, or hiking. LVC store has groceries, even organic, supplies, and friendly folks.
Guide
This is our go to spot when we visit Branson several times a year! Always kind, helpful employees, very clean bathrooms and showers, and is well taken care of. The kids enjoy riding their bikes, the small pool and hot tub too. They have room for big rigs, cabins, and offer a military discount!
Ranger
The lots are all privately owned and some owners offer their sites for rent. All streets are paved as are the lots. FHU on all sites, pool, hot tub, boat dock. Gated community with guards.
GuideABC is just on the edge of Branson, but still within a few minutes of the Strip and all the town's locations. We've stayed here numerous times and it's our go-to spot when we go to Branson 2-3 times a year. They have a pool and hot tub, small restaurant, playground, very clean showers/bathrooms, can accommodate big rigs, have a small tent area, cabins to rent, horseshoes, RV wash, small store, can arrange travel, etc. They have cabins to rent as well. There is a very reasonable and tasty brick oven pizza place just up the road towards Branson that is worth checking out. The offer discounts if you are a member of Good Sam's Club, pay with check/cash, or are a current/former member of the military.
Legend
This isn’t a campground, but it is an awesome resort that started in the 50’sand has grown to what it is today. They have lots of different cabins/cottages to choose from on the river. There is a landing strip for small planes and an awesome restaurant with an amazing view of the River. There is a store on site and a game room for the kids. They also offer fishing guides, because, at the end of the day, it is the world class trout fishing that brings people here! They also have a really nice outdoor nature trail area filled with at least a dozen or more peacocks. I could just spend the afternoon here watching the planes land and take off! If you are looking for a campground close by, I would recommend Bull Shoals White River State Park.
Guide
Well taken care of place with lots of activities. Close to lake Bull Shoals, Taneycomo, and Branson if that's your thing.
Ranger
This camp is quiet and family run. It's in a great location between the White River and Bull Shoals Lake. It's also in a great location for an easy drive to Branson for an afternoon
Legend
Bull Shoals SP has a large campground with decent sites. Most of the sites are level and suitable for a tent and have some privacy. The real attraction at this SP is the lake. From fishing to boating to cooling off in the lake, there are plenty of things to do. The playground is large and will entertain the kids for a while. They have a wide range of hiking trails that will suit any experience level. I recommend the Big Bluff trail, at 1 1/2 miles it is a good workout.
TravelerWe come here to fly fish and enjoy the scenery. We’ve spent 2 Thanksgiving holidays here and while cold and crisp at night, it’s been great. Sometimes there is fog on the river making for great pictures. The trout are plentiful and definitely test your skill. Sitting next to a campfire at night with hot coco is one of our favorite things. Bull Shoals is a quaint sleepy little town. There is a great antique/fly shop where the owner tells good stories and will even show you how to tie a fly or two.
ScoutTook my wife and daughter to gastons for a visit and to get out on some walking trails. They have a nature preserve there and it was great to visit. The water was up quite a bit due to the amount of rain we have had in our area. Lakes are over full. Located below bull shoals dam the water is very cold and refreshing if you can get the nerve jump in. LOL. We were going to float on the river but the rain put a stop to that. So we just enjoyed the pool and walking the trails.
LegendFirst off, I don't know what is going on with this site but holy cow, let's get the name of the State Park correct - its the Bull Shoal-White River State Park. Not plural Shoals.
With that cleared up, this is a gem of a park that follows along the White River just south of the Bull Shoals Dam. You will pass the visitor center on the north side of the dam, go over it, and down into the park. Definitely stop at the visitor center. It's one of the best I've been to in Arkansas.
As the titled to my review indicated, this park is like watching the flyfishing scenes from the movie A River Runs Through It over and over (if you're lost, just Google images from the movie). The park is so picturesque that at times it seems like it can't be real. There is dense fog in the early morning because the water in the river stays about 40 degrees even in the heat of the summer. You can access the water from any site along the river as the terrain is sort of a gentle slope from each site down to the river. However, on the west side of the river, it is basically straight rock face, where the river has carved out its path in a mountain through the years.
The park is relatively small but the camp sites are large. The rv sites along the river are very large. Some have sewer, some don't; all have water/power. The marina and bait shop is in the center of the park. The tent and smaller pad sites are further from the river, but quite nice. The bath houses shine at this park. They are super clean, large and private. It is a "family-style" bathhouse with 4 separate and large bathrooms, all of which have a toilet, sink, mirror and outlet. I have only visited this park with my brother, but as a father of 3 little ones, I can say it would be very easy to get your kids clean in these bathrooms without feeling rushed. Each shower room has a separate door and locks. You can take as long as you need.
As for the campground, I'll just start with the fishing since most of the visitors to this park come for that reason alone. This is obviously a fishermen's paradise. Trout fishing galore all year. We fished the river along the campground and we also went on a guided fishing trip. Piece of advice, pay the money and take a guided trip if you go to Bull Shoals. You'll catch more fish than you can keep and you'll have a blast. Unless you're literally a borderline professional angler, you won't have any luck without a guide. We ourselves had almost no luck fishing from the bank and/or in waders, and we watched many a dejected fishermen walk back to their site after appearing so hopeful when heading to the water.
The reason you need to pony up for a guide is because - literally - from sun up to sun down, there are fishing boats going up and down the river. The White River flows north through the park and toward the dam. Guide services launch by either the dam or from the marina that is located approximately right in the middle of the park. You can also rent a boat from the marina if you don't want to pay for a guide. The guide services carry fisherman south on the river right through the park (usually on the eastern side of the river closest to the camp sites) and they go as far south as they can before they cut the engine and float down the western side of the river in the deeper water. So, like I said, if you are hoping to stand in waist deep water and fish the bank, it's impossible to do so. There is a boat motoring right through your fishing spot about every fifteen minutes. When the guide service has floated as far north as they can, they turn their engines back on and speed back south down the river to take their place back in the line of floating boats that go all day every day. We ended up traveling south of the park towards Cotter, AR to Hurst Fishing Service (http://www.hurstdock.net/). We had a guide named Pete and he was fantastic. For me and my brother, it ended up being about $450, and we spent about 4 1/2 hours out on the boat. They provided poles, tackle, baited hooks, and a cooler full of drinks. Pete also cleaned our trout for us. We caught more fish than we could keep (see my pictures). It was an absolute blast. Without a guide, we wouldn't have caught anything absent blind luck. Pete put us right on top of fish, told us what to do, and we caught fish after fish, after fish, after fish. That's how every fishing trip should go - more catching than fishing. Highly recommend Hurst.
Beyond the fishing, the park is great for any kind of relaxing getaway. The constant noise of running water is unbelievably calming and, in fact, my brother gave me a hard time for sleeping about 3 hours in the hammock one day. It was amazing. There is a nice playground on the eastern side of the park away from the water, as well as a huge pavilion. There's also a basketball court. We were there in April so it wasn't too warm yet, but if you went with the intention of swimming in the river, I'm not sure how much you'd enjoy it. The temp of the water is very cold year around. Also, there are so many boats going up and down the river, I would be very, very nervous about any kids getting out in the river to swim.
One side note: when we camped at Bull Shoals, we ended up booking two sites even though we only used 1 pop up camper. We were in sites 42 & 43. The reason we did this is because they are directly across the street from the bath house, and because the sides are literally side by side - they share the same pad. We didn't want to be right next to another RV (literally maybe 2 feet away), so we just booked both sites. Doing this made for a HUGE! campsite area. For the price, if you have a family, I think it is absolutely the way to go. The sites on both sides of 42 and 43 are fairly far away so you end up having a huge area to yourself if you get both sites. I would recommend doing this for anyone camping with kids, but I'd say the same even if you had a group of 6 adults. Just gives you tons of room to spread out, set up tables, chairs, etc. without feeling like other campers are on top of you. Thats particularly true at this park because the sites are generally close together as they are set up diagonally along the river. Just look at the campground map when you book online through the Arkansas State Parks site (https://www.arkansasstateparks.com/parks/bull-shoals-white-river-state-park).
Lastly, in the event you have kids, which often requires a midtrip walmart run, you should know that this park isn't close to anything. The nearest walmart is in Flippin, Arkansas and it takes about 35 minutes to get there so it's a solid hour for a round trip to and from. I know from personal experience because we noticed that one of the tires on my brother's camper had a big bulge in it and we had to go to walmart to buy a new trailer tire. When we got back, we realized we didn't have the right size and had to go back to walmart to get the correct size. It ended up taking up about 4 hours of our last night on the trip. Yikes!! In other words, if you go to Bull Shoals, make sure you pull a santa and check your list twice, maybe a third time, and over pack everything. To that end, make sure to bring pants and a coat even if you go in the summer. The temps fluctuate about 20 degrees in the morning and evening because of the temperature of the river. You'll be cold at night without a jacket and pants.
Overall, I'd just say that as soon as we arrived and got the camper set up, my brother and I took in the view for a minute, looked at each other and said almost simultaneously: "We're gonna have to come back here again." We held the same sentiment on our last day as we drove our separate ways. This Park is yet another can't miss in Arkansas and I promise you, the Natural State will not disappoint.
RangerI had heard that Bull Shoals- White River State Park was beautiful, but I didn’t fully understand until I saw it. All of the campsites face white river and there’s plenty of space between sites to allow for some level of privacy. All the campsites are flat with nice concrete pads. Each campsite has a fire ring, picnic table, and trash pole.
There is a newer section of the campground that is north of the marina. These campsites have newer asphalt and fire rings and have better access to the updated ADA bath houses. These bath houses are the single-quad bath houses where the toilet and shower are individualized into four quadrants. They are excellent for those campers that might not have travel trailers or self-contained units.
We were able to hike and fish most days. there is a playground and a basketball court that are functional and easy to access for families. 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. There are also three trailers that have been converted into mobile homes near the marina for those campers that don’t have access to a pop-up or a camper for rent. They look very nice. The marina is also very nice and has a lot of simple supplies and merchandise.
When the dam is not releasing generators, you can wade out into the river from your campsite and fish; however, when they release the generators this is going to be very difficult. The only drawback is that you are inundated all day long with boat motors going up and down White River. It is very tranquil and peaceful in the mornings and evenings.
There are many different outfitters that do fishing trips. 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 on our last night. If you like to fish, enjoy camping, and enjoy doing both of those things, Bull-Shoals-White River state park is the place to go. I will definitely be going back!
GuidePros:-
-Beautiful river with a blanket of mist over it each morning
--Quiet atmosphere(because everyone is there to fish)
--Clean and well cared for
Cons:
--Not much space between sites
--Can't swim in the water(more of a heads up than a"con")
If you're an angler, this looks like the place to be. We're not of the fishing sort, but we enjoyed waking up early and watching the fishing boats cruise up the river and float back down. The incredible mist on the water each morning(yes, all those pictures everyone takes of it are real) is reason enough to stay for a couple of nights.
Just a heads up, if you're looking for a wooded spot to camp, this isn't it. Sites are packed close together and there's probably as much asphalt as there is grass. But Bull Shoals is all about the fishing, so this wasn't too surprising
Legend
So when I look at this stop, I would say this, the cabins are a 5 the RV area is a 3. The reason for this is the the RVs feel a bit crammed into the space in most areas. The treehouse cabins and regular cabins however are exceptional and well thought.
As typically a tent camper there wasn't anything special about that area and it did seem like it was the lower end of the property. For $26 a night I was underwhelmed by the smaller spaces with fire rings and picnic tables. If I was to invest in a location for the same price points there are others which set themselves apart in spacing.
But like I said the cabins and treehouses are an experience you will not find elsewhere in this area. They are fun and functional. They are family friendly and have a little bit of excitement for everyone. Each of the cabins and treehouses are themed, something which is reflected not only in their names but also their decor. With that said however the themes make them more appealing to book so people book well in advance on most of these. I suggest if you are interested in staying booking well in advance of your trip or come during a less busy season to ensure your last minute bookings.
Cabins typically sleep 6 and have fireplaces and decks with great views of the forest. They each have kitchens which enable you prepare a meal for your family or for those who do not wish to do so there is still a dining are for bringing food back from an adventure into Branson.
The Treehouses are my person favorite because it isn't every day you can sleep in an African Safari treehouse or retreat to a couple's cabin in the treetops. The themes with these are so specific and so unique and with each theme you find different styles of amenities within each. For example the couples treehouse has a jetted tub for those special occasions and despite being for couples it sleeps 4 so you can still share this with another couple or bring the kids and maybe get away to a private space. The Grist Mill has a jacuzzi on the porch with a view, which is amazing!!!
I basically fell in love with the cabins and treehouses if you cannot tell. This place is worth investing in the higher priced accommodations to take advantage of their uniqueness. Unlike many cabins which are nice places to stay just to go somewhere else these could easily be the destination all themselves.
Traveler
This camp site is part of a marina and resort so can get packed but the views and amenities make it worth the risk.
We were on these beautiful bluff and had access to the lake but the ground is super hard. we did not blow away so it ended up ok.
Has lots to do. Boat and jetski rental, floating cafe, hotel with pool or cabins. Plus dock and slip rentals .
TravelerMy family stayed in the African Treehouse Lodge. It was a great weekend getaway. The kids loved that the upstairs was up a ladder and running across the swinging rope bridge. The playground has a zipline that all the kiddos had a blast using. We were able to "rent" for free a couple of movies from the office and the staff was really friendly and helpful. The trails made for a good afternoon family walk. Some trails were more cleared out than other but the variety is a plus in my book. They are not overly long trails but still very enjoyable. They have plenty of RV sites and some cabins and treehouses. Me and my wife will be coming back to one of the couples only treehouses for sure! There are not a lot of tent sites and they are all in one crowded area with little seclusion or cover but this place is clearly more geared to the RV's and Cabin getaways. Would be great for family reunions or family trips to the Branson area.
Scout
This is an incredible place to camp. Your camp is where the White River and Buffalo rivers merge. If you enjoy fishing this has some of the best trout and bass fishing in the area. The resort has cabins, full hookup sites , tent sites, pool and play area for the kids. If you like to just float or fish they can help you with what you need. There is also boat rentals , fishing guides, just plain relaxing. The resort is family owned,
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 ❤️
Legend
This is a mixed use place. It appears that there are long time campers, some weekend campers and nice cabins along the River. The White River is incredible with amazing trout fishing, so this is a great place to take in the views of the river! Location is close to town, the Marina & State Park and also Gastons. Giving it 4 stars for the cabins, but not so much for the campground.
ScoutExcellent camping facilities. (Tent, RV and Cabin)
Guide
We drove up from Florida for a late March early April camping experience. We loved this campground and plan going back soon! We stayed for 6 nights (5 @ site E and our last night we stayed in the "Mink" cabin.) Staff was very friendly Site "E" was huge and right on the water! The "Mink" cabin was incredible with a porch and swing right on the water! Perfect location with lots to see and do very close by.
Scout
My Drive to the campsite was beautiful. The new owners are extremely kind & accommodating.
My cabin was perfect for my dog & I. I’m excited to see the updates to visit again.
Legend
Ashley here from The Dyrt! It was great to add this property with gorgeous cabins. A great location for all of your outdoor adventures. Check them out and leave them some love!
GuideFor a small campground, this place has a lot to offer. Well stocked store, RV sites, tent sites, group sites, cabins, pavilion, and even a stage for events.
Quick access to the Syllamore Trail, the creek, and nearby mountain biking trails.
Traveler
Horseshoe canyon ranch is an awesome place. There are many places to camp as well as bathrooms. It is a spectacular place to climb from beginner to advanced! The ranch also has cabins and horseback rides. Check out their website for more info.
Scout
Location is easy to find. Love being next to the water! Heard there is a dog park coming this summer. Great place to go if u want to vacation with someone that doesn't have a camper because of the cabins on property. we will be back.
Legend
This was a surprisingly nice campground for being situated right in Branson, MO and operated by Silver Dollar City, whose primary business is the theme park. The area is fairly wooded, providing more privacy between the sites. There are many amenities, including laundry, shower, wifi in the main building, a game room with television and comfy couches, pool, market, playground, and a shuttle to Silver Dollar City park. The campground organizes some special events in the main game room, such as the breakfast for Father's Day that we experienced. The staff is super friendly and very helpful. My daughter's roller coaster birthday plans were rained out, and the staff helped us find other indoor adventures. FYI: If looking for adventure in Branson, we really enjoyed Fritz's Adventure--check it out!
As part of a special weekend, we opted to stay in the Pioneer Cabin instead of our usual tent. This cabin was surprisingly isolated, while still be right next to the bathrooms. We enjoyed our little bit of the Ozark, and the kids got acquainted with the abundant fireflies. The other cabins were not quite so private--to be fair.
The RV sites were not as crammed as they are in many private campgrounds. I wouldn't call them spacious, or private either. The tent sites do not seem to offer much privacy, but can be a good place to hang one's for a night. After all, this is in Branson, and there is so much to do outside of a tent to worry much about the details.
Cabin camping near Bull Shoals in Arkansas offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure, making it an ideal getaway for families and nature lovers alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular cabin campsite near Bull Shoals, AR?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular cabin campground near Bull Shoals, AR is Bull Shoals-White River State Park with a 4.7-star rating from 25 reviews.
What is the best site to find cabin camping near Bull Shoals, AR?
TheDyrt.com has all 54 cabin camping locations near Bull Shoals, AR, with real photos and reviews from campers.
Keep Exploring
