Norfork Lake camping in Gamaliel, Arkansas offers outdoor experiences at 700 feet elevation with shorelines characterized by limestone bluffs and wooded coves. The lake spans 22,000 acres with 550 miles of shoreline, providing both developed campgrounds and primitive camping areas. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting campsite availability especially in spring.
What to do
Fishing access: Robinson Point provides excellent lake fishing opportunities with 550 miles of shoreline. "Lake Norfork is the place to be. It offers a big like to boat on or fish. Or you can rent pontoons boat JetSki's in assessor he's at any one of the multiple marine is located around the lake," shares a camper at Robinson Point.
Trout fishing: Dam - Quarry campground sits below Norfork Dam on the Norfork River. "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!" according to a visitor at Dam - Quarry.
Paddling: North Fork Recreation Area offers river access for kayaking and canoeing. "The sites are private and shaded, lots of trees. Sites are right on the river so you can hear it rushing as you fall asleep," notes a camper at North Fork.
What campers like
Lake views: Campsites with premium lake views are highly sought after. "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," advises a visitor to Bidwell Point Park.
Swimming spots: Jordan Campground offers unique swimming opportunities from natural rock formations. "Great views of the lake and great swimming off the rock outcrops. Water is so clear," shares a camper at Jordan Campground.
Multi-river access: White Buffalo Resort sits at the confluence of two major waterways. "Right on the White River and the Buffalo River, just yards away. The best of both rivers. The resort is well maintained and the staff is friendly," notes a camper at White Buffalo Resort.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Many campgrounds operate May through September or October. According to a camper at Henderson Park, "This is a wonderful small campground. Will not handle large rigs. Better suited to smaller trailers or tents. Right on the water so it is great if you have a kayaks or similar."
Flooding concerns: Spring rains can impact site availability. "In the spring of 2020 many sites were under water from the spring rain," reports a camper at Robinson Point. Always check conditions before arrival, especially during rainy seasons.
Bathroom facilities: Bathroom amenities vary widely between campgrounds. Jordan Campground offers basic facilities while Dam - Quarry features "Clean and private bathrooms. Each room had its own lockable bathroom with toilet, sink and shower."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. Dam - Quarry includes a playground within the campground boundaries, and as one visitor noted, "Campground was patrolled regularly," providing additional security for families.
Kid-friendly swimming: Jordan Campground provides natural swimming areas popular with families. "Kids had a blast here! Cliff jumping, great fishing, kayaking, swim beach, and even pizza from the marina!" shares an enthusiastic family camper.
Evening entertainment: Bring games and watch for natural light shows. One camper at North Fork Recreation Area shared a magical experience: "Nighttime was magical. It was absolutely silent besides the sounds of nature and the river. Our favorite part was the THOUSANDS of fireflies. They were like a blanket or waves of twinkles through the whole loop."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Many yurt camping options near Gamaliel, Arkansas are on sloped terrain requiring careful navigation. "Average space between sites. Level paved sites with gravel picnic area including picnic table, fire ring, lantern hanger," reports a visitor to Dam - Quarry, noting the amenities available.
Cell coverage: Coverage varies by campground and carrier. "Good cell reception both ATT & Verizon," reports a Robinson Point camper, while another at Dam - Quarry notes "Limited AT&T service." Verizon appears to work best throughout the area.
Parking challenges: Larger RVs may struggle at certain campgrounds. Henderson Park specifically "Will not handle large rigs. Better suited to smaller trailers or tents," while sites at Robinson Point "are relatively level and have asphalt ramps with concrete pads."
Dump station locations: Most campgrounds offer dump stations but no full hookups. "No sewer hook up, cell service, wifi or TV," warns a camper at Dam - Quarry. Plan accordingly for longer stays at yurt camping facilities near Gamaliel.
