Camping areas near Fifty-Six, Arkansas offer scenic riverside access with options ranging from primitive sites to developed campgrounds at the junction of the White and Buffalo Rivers. Located in the heart of the Ozarks at approximately 700 feet elevation, the region experiences mild spring and fall temperatures with hot, humid summers. Many campsites sit along waterways where limestone bluffs create natural swimming areas and fishing spots.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Sylamore Creek Camp provides direct creek access for anglers. "We love having direct access to creek. It is kayak, family, pet friendly," notes one camper, adding that "the only thing it is lacking is internet connection, which for us is a plus for disconnecting."
Swimming and wading: At Holiday Mountain Resort, the creek offers various water depths for different activities. As one visitor reports, "Creek is full of smallmouth bass, great swimming holes for the kids, and some shallow wading areas to lounge in chairs or find crawfish."
Trout fishing: Below the dam at Dam - Quarry, the cold, clear water creates ideal trout habitat. A visitor describes it as "beautiful waterfront camping! The water is clear and freezing cold, and the breeze off the water feels amazing! The sounds from the dam releasing water is so peaceful!"
Hiking nearby trails: Several campgrounds offer access to nearby trails. One camper at Sylamore Creek Camp mentions "Quick access to the Syllamore Trail, the creek, and nearby mountain biking trails."
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Campers consistently rate waterfront sites highest. At Gilbert RV Park, visitors appreciate how close they are to the Buffalo River: "When they advertise a stones throw from the Buffalo river, they mean it."
Family-friendly atmosphere: Many campgrounds maintain quiet, family-oriented environments. A camper at Sylamore Creek Camp shared, "We love this campground. We have stayed both directly on the creek and on the upper full hookup sites. It is safe family friendly and quiet."
Swimming areas: Natural swimming holes are a major draw. At Holiday Mountain Resort, a visitor noted, "Creek is full of smallmouth bass, great swimming holes for the kids, and some shallow wading areas to lounge in chairs or find crawfish."
Boat access: For those bringing watercraft, many campgrounds offer convenient access. A visitor to White Buffalo Resort explained, "Right on the White River with easy access to the Buffalo River by boat, canoe, or kayak."
What you should know
Seasonal flooding risk: Lower elevation sites can flood during rainy periods. At Sylamore Creek Camp, a visitor warned, "Just don't camp on lower sites when raining."
Reservation requirements: Most sites require advance booking. At Robinson Point, a reviewer noted, "Need to have reservations and on holidays be prepared for major crowds."
Bathroom facilities vary: Some campgrounds have limited shower facilities. A Dam - Quarry visitor reported, "Showers flush and pit toilets drinking water dump station and trash."
Site spacing: Some campgrounds have closely spaced sites. At White Buffalo Resort, a reviewer observed, "The campsites are close together but the amenities are worth it."
Summer crowds: Peak season brings more visitors. One Robinson Point camper advised, "Hope to see you there" but cautioned about crowds during peak summer weekends.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated children's areas: Some campgrounds offer specific facilities for kids. White Buffalo Resort provides "Pool, playground, small store with essentials, boat rentals, ping pong, & more."
Consider river safety: Water levels and currents can change quickly. A Holiday Mountain Resort visitor noted, "Creek is full of smallmouth bass, great swimming holes for the kids, and some shallow wading areas to lounge in chairs."
Choose campgrounds with activities: Several locations offer on-site entertainment. According to a White Buffalo Resort visitor, "The resort is family owned, family friendly. Located at the end of the world, it will take a bit to get there but the drive is worth it."
Bring water shoes: Rocky creek beds require proper footwear. Many creeks have limestone bottoms that can be slippery or sharp.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: At Bidwell Point Park, RVers should note backing challenges: "We are in site 13 right on the water! 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."
Hook-up options: Different campgrounds offer various hook-up levels. At Sylamore Creek Camp, a reviewer explained, "They have all levels of sites: primitive, water and electric, or full."
Site selection for larger rigs: Some campgrounds have limited big rig access. A Robinson Point camper advised, "Many sites have views of the lake to just sit and watch the activities on the like."
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups. A Sylamore Creek Camp visitor mentioned, "Site F is the premium and most secluded full hook up site."
