Glamping near Mountain Home, Arkansas centers around Lake Norfork, a 22,000-acre reservoir with over 550 miles of shoreline in the Ozark Mountains. The area maintains moderate temperatures from May through October, with summer highs averaging 89°F and evening temperatures cooling to the mid-60s. Winter glamping options remain available at year-round locations like Dam-Quarry Campground where temperatures can drop below freezing from December through February.
What to do
Trout fishing access: Dam-Quarry provides exceptional access to Norfork River's trout fishing spots. "Great trout fishing! 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!" reports a Dam-Quarry visitor.
Kayaking on Lake Norfork: Paddle directly from your glamping site at Jordan Campground. "Great views and right next to Sand Island! Kids had a blast here! Cliff jumping, great fishing, kayaking, swim beach, and even pizza from the marina!" notes one camper.
Visit Norfolk Dam Fish Hatchery: Located directly across from Dam-Quarry campground, the hatchery offers educational opportunities. "Close the the river and next to the hatchery. Great fishing and it's neat to watch the water rise from the dam," shares a camper.
Boat rentals: Multiple marinas around Lake Norfork offer boat and jet ski rentals for day use. "If you own a boat, 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," reports a Robinson Point visitor.
What campers like
Lake Norfork views: Waterfront glamping sites offer direct access to Lake Norfork. "Our first time here. It is beautiful! Quickly becoming one of our favorites. We are in site 13 right on the water!" shares a Bidwell Point Park visitor.
Private bathrooms: Some campgrounds feature individual bathroom facilities. "Clean and private bathrooms. Each room had its own lockable bathroom with toilet, sink and shower," notes a Dam-Quarry reviewer.
Natural cooling: The water proximity provides relief during hot summer months. "We have stayed here many times in te summer heat. The Norfork river provides great cool breezes early and late during the day," explains a Dam-Quarry camper.
Level sites: Most glamping locations feature level parking pads. "Level paved sites with gravel picnic area including picnic table, fire ring, lantern hanger. Some sites had covered picnic area," reports a reviewer.
What you should know
Seasonal flooding: Spring rains can affect site availability. "In the spring of 2020 many sites were under water from the spring rain," notes a Robinson Point camper.
Grass maintenance varies: Some campgrounds have reduced maintenance schedules. "The campground is nice. The grounds are unkept this year. The grass is already tall and when we asked about it we were told it's only getting taller. The grass will not be cut at all this year," shares a Dam-Quarry visitor.
Reservation requirements: Most glamping sites require advance booking. "Reservations only and if there has been a lot of rain some sites could be under water," explains a Bidwell Point visitor.
Limited shade at certain sites: Some areas lack tree cover. "This is probably an excellent site in spring or fall. However summertime is hot at the site because of the lack of shade trees," reports a Denton Ferry RV Park & Cabin Rental camper.
Tips for camping with families
Group site options: Some locations offer multi-site reservations for family gatherings. "We reserve the group site every year. There are several camp sites in this one location. Great for family get together. Private pavilion," explains a Dam-Quarry camper.
Water activities for children: Multiple swimming areas and water features keep kids entertained. "Beautiful setting in the Ozarks with a small rural town. The campground is located just below the Norfolk Dam. Great spot to fish or kayak has a boat ramp but the creek was rather low surprising since the lake at Mountain Home was flooded," notes a Dam-Quarry visitor.
Playground access: Several campgrounds include play areas. "Beautiful mature camp. Water abounds for all types of recreational activities. Campground has all the basic needs and is well maintained. Nice bathrooms and showers," shares a Henderson Park visitor.
Marina amenities: On-site food options save cooking time. "Kids had a blast here! Cliff jumping, great fishing, kayaking, swim beach, and even pizza from the marina!" reports a Jordan Campground visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for large rigs: Choose locations that accommodate your vehicle size. "Average space between sites. Level paved sites with gravel picnic area including picnic table, fire ring, lantern hanger. Some sites had covered picnic area. Limited shade, most sites don't have trees. Good access to sites," notes a Dam-Quarry reviewer.
Backing challenges: Some premium waterfront sites require advanced driving skills. "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 Bidwell Point camper.
Utilities availability: Most sites offer water and electric, but limited sewer connections. "Knowledgeable staff, quiet park right next to the river. Not all sites have campfire rings but they are available," shares a White Buffalo Resort visitor.
Cell service coverage: Coverage varies by carrier and location. "Limited AT&T service. Individual Private suite style bathrooms. Playground. No store, no firewood for sale. Level sites. Several sites have covers over the picnic tables," notes a Dam-Quarry camper.
