Lake Norfork near Elizabeth, Arkansas offers yurt camping options with access to 550 miles of shoreline at elevations between 540-870 feet. The area receives approximately 44 inches of annual rainfall with summer temperatures averaging 90°F. Winter camping is limited as most campgrounds operate seasonally from May through October.
What to do
**Trout fishing: Experience premier fishing conditions at Dam - Quarry where cool water from the Norfork Dam creates ideal conditions. "Fishing is best when the generators start drop water levels and early mornings without generation," notes a camper.
**Visit the fish hatchery: Located across from Dam - Quarry campground, the fish hatchery makes an educational side trip. "Be sure to visit the hatchery across the street," recommends one reviewer who enjoyed exploring this facility during their camping trip.
**Kayaking and boating: Jordan Campground provides excellent water access for multiple activities. "Kids had a blast here! Cliff jumping, great fishing, kayaking, swim beach, and even pizza from the marina!" shares one visitor who found plenty of water-based activities.
**Swimming at rock outcrops: Clear water makes swimming enjoyable at specific spots. "This is a great campground. Awesome views of the lake and great swimming off the rock outcrops. Water is so clear," notes a camper at Jordan Campground.
What campers like
**Proximity to Mountain Home: The convenience of nearby services appeals to many yurt campers at Robinson Point. "Very close, 7 or 8 miles out of Mountain Home," mentions one reviewer, appreciating the balance between seclusion and access to town amenities.
**Level campsites: Well-maintained, level sites make setup easier. "Campsites on 'the Island' are very barren with no shade at all, but close to the water. Good cell reception both ATT & Verizon. Most all sites are relatively level and have asphalt ramps with concrete pads," notes a Robinson Point camper.
**Private bathroom facilities: Several campgrounds offer improved restroom facilities. "Clean and private bathrooms. Each room had its own lockable bathroom with toilet, sink and shower," reports a visitor to Dam - Quarry, highlighting the upgraded amenities.
**Staff assistance: Helpful campground hosts enhance the experience at White Buffalo Resort. "The staff here goes above & beyond! The campsites are close together but the amenities are worth it. Very family friendly," writes one reviewer.
What you should know
**Seasonal flooding risk: Water levels can impact site availability. "In the spring of 2020 many sites were under water from the spring rain," reports a Robinson Point camper, indicating the need to check conditions before arrival.
**Limited shade at some sites: Sun exposure varies significantly between campgrounds. At Bidwell Point Park, "Site was a little hard to get into and a little tight with the pavillion there providing the only shade," according to one camper.
**Reservation requirements: Most waterfront sites require advance planning. "Make sure to make reservations well in advance, as this campground is so popular that getting a site as a walk up is highly unlikely," advises a Jordan Campground visitor.
**Backing challenges at waterfront sites: Waterfront sites often require good backing skills. "But be warned if you are not proficient in backing your camper sites 10-13 are probably not the best choice. You have to back down a hill quite a ways," cautions a Bidwell Point Park visitor.
Tips for camping with families
**Look for campgrounds with playgrounds: Several locations offer play areas for children. At Dam - Quarry, facilities include "individual private suite style bathrooms, playground, no store, no firewood for sale, level sites," according to a recent visitor.
**Consider rental options: Equipment rentals save packing space. "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," mentions a White Buffalo Resort camper.
**Select sites with covered picnic areas: Weather protection enhances meal times. "Some sites had covered picnic area. Limited shade, most sites don't have trees," notes a Dam - Quarry reviewer, highlighting this useful amenity.
**Choose campgrounds with swimming access: Direct water access keeps kids entertained. At Sylamore Creek Camp, "We loved having direct access to creek. It is kayak, family, pet friendly," shares one visitor.
Tips from RVers
**Check site dimensions carefully: Some sites have size limitations. "For 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," notes a Sylamore Creek Camp reviewer.
**Plan for dump station locations: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups. "No sewer hook up, cell service, wifi or TV," mentions one Dam - Quarry visitor, indicating the need to plan for tank dumping.
**Consider seasonal timing: Summer brings higher temperatures and crowds. "We have camped here many times in the summer heat. The Norfork river provides great cool breezes early and late during the day," shares a Dam - Quarry camper who found ways to manage the heat.
**Look for sites with electrical capacity: Power needs vary by yurt type and setup. "Water and electric at most of the site's," notes a Cranfield Park visitor, which works well for basic yurt camping needs in Elizabeth, Arkansas.
