Norfork Lake offers 550 miles of shoreline and 22,000 acres of water surface spread across the Ozark Mountains of northern Arkansas. The lake sits at an elevation of 546 feet and maintains relatively stable water levels throughout the year, though spring rains occasionally cause flooding at some glamping and camping sites. Water temperatures range from mid-70s to low 80s in summer, creating ideal conditions for water recreation at the various campgrounds surrounding the lake.
What to do
Trout fishing below Norfork Dam: The tailwaters below the dam provide excellent cold-water fishing opportunities. "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 visitor to Dam - Quarry.
Kayaking and canoeing: With clear waters and numerous access points, paddlers can explore the lake's many coves. According to one camper at Henderson Park, "Kayaking, swimming, and fishing were great!"
Hiking nearby trails: While some campgrounds have limited on-site hiking, nearby trails offer scenic views. "There are a couple of hiking trailheads in campground. The Blue Spring Trail was really nice; it was moderately difficult in a few areas. Nice views of the North Fork River along this trail," shares a visitor to North Fork Recreation Area.
Visit the fish hatchery: Located across from Dam-Quarry campground, the fish hatchery offers educational opportunities. As one camper mentions, "Be sure to visit the hatchery across the street."
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Some campgrounds offer secluded spots with direct lake access. At Robinson Point, a visitor notes, "Camped at site #8 in Oct 10-11, 2025. Our site was on a wooded loop, the first camping section on the left after entering the campground. Good spacing between sites."
Clean facilities: The Corps of Engineers maintains many campgrounds with quality amenities. "Clean and private bathrooms. Each room had its own lockable bathroom with toilet, sink and shower," reports a camper at Dam-Quarry.
Mature forests: Many sites feature established tree cover for shade. "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," shares a visitor to North Fork Recreation Area.
Reliable cell service: Unlike more remote areas, most Norfork Lake glamping sites maintain good connectivity. "AT&T and T-Mobile service. I normally do primitive and dispersed camping, but occasionally use established campgrounds, such as this, for replemishing water and power," mentions a Robinson Point camper.
What you should know
Seasonal water levels: Spring rains can significantly impact site availability. A visitor to Cranfield Park explains, "There seems to be two camping areas, but one was inaccessible due to flooding when I visited."
Reservation requirements: Most glamping sites around Norfork Lake require advance booking. "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 Cranfield Park camper.
Site spacing varies: Some campgrounds have more privacy than others. "Average space between sites. Limited shade, most sites don't have trees," notes a Dam-Quarry visitor.
Seasonal closures: Many Corps of Engineers campgrounds close during winter months. The main glamping season runs May through October, with some sites operating April through November.
Tips for camping with families
Look for sites with covered picnic tables: These provide reliable shade regardless of tree cover. "Some sites had covered picnic area," points out a Dam-Quarry visitor.
Consider proximity to playground facilities: Several campgrounds include play areas for children. A visitor to White Buffalo Resort shares, "The resort has cabins, full hookup sites, tent sites, pool and play area for the kids."
Evening wildlife viewing: Some sites offer unique after-dark experiences. "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," reports a North Fork Recreation Area camper.
Check water access type: Some shorelines are rocky while others offer easier entry points. "The sites are HUGE and spacious but not private. There are some trails from the sites to the river but nature has mostly taken them over and it is not a safe trek," notes one North Fork camper.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Check your specific site before committing to a location. "The campsites were large with good spacing between them. My site was level, but can't say that for all sites," advises a North Fork camper.
Backing challenges at waterfront sites: Lakefront sites often require more driving skill. "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 visitor to Jordan Campground.
Electric service variations: Hookup types differ between campgrounds. "Our site had 20 and 30 amp power," notes a Robinson Point camper, while others mention 50-amp service at select locations.
Dump station locations: Not all glamping sites have on-site dump facilities. A Cranfield Park visitor mentions, "There's a nice floating bar with light food in the public area of the marina if you want to get a drink or something light(bar food) to eat."
