Tent camping near Norfork, Arkansas centers around the Buffalo National River watershed, which features limestone and sandstone formations at elevations ranging from 600 to 2,200 feet. Camping areas experience seasonal flooding patterns that affect site accessibility, particularly at gravel bars from March through June. Water levels can fluctuate dramatically within 24 hours following heavy rainfall events.
What to do
Canoe the upper Buffalo River: At Rush Campground, campers access the final stretch before the wilderness area. "This is the last stop before you enter the wilderness area of the Buffalo River. It was amazing. The only complaint is that at times the river can run somewhat low," notes Matt S. Beginner paddlers find the gentler currents ideal, while experienced canoeists might want more challenging sections.
Mountain bike nearby trails: The Syllamo trail system offers multiple trailheads with parking areas and pit toilets for outdoor enthusiasts. According to Arkansas F., "This is a series of trails with multiple trail heads. Each trail head has a course gravel parking area and a very nice pit toilet. Bring lots of drinking water." Remember to yield to bikers when hiking these shared-use paths.
Hunt seasonally: Gene Rush Wildlife Management Area permits hunting during specific seasons from September through May. Remember that Arkansas hunting regulations apply. "Know the seasons and be courteous. There is pretty much at least one open hunting season from September each year through the following May," advises reviewer Poopy B.
What campers like
Natural river beaches: Shine Eye Gravel Bar provides riverside camping without designated sites. "This is just a gravel bar along The Buffalo National River but it is beautiful! There are no designated campsites, just park in the parking lot, walk down to the river and find a spot," explains Lindsey P. The open beach setting allows campers to select their preferred proximity to water.
Privacy between sites: Spring Creek Campground offers primitive camping with good site separation. Lisa B. reports, "This primitive campground was perfect for me and my dog. We stayed three nights in October 2020. It's right on a put-in spot on the Buffalo River so there were a couple of buses and shuttles but for the most part it was very quiet." Sites include fire rings and picnic tables.
Ranger presence: Rush Landing provides security with regular staff patrols. "The sites were patrolled by rangers on a regular basis. However, the rangers were great and knew a lot about area," notes Paul P., who camped at this primitive site with vault toilets and water spigot.
What you should know
Permit requirements: Gene Rush Wildlife Management Area requires a camping permit from Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. Robert B. explains, "Must purchase camping license from Game and Fishing Commission. Can be done online at www.agfc.com (Arkansas Game and Fishing Commission), for $5." Only two designated camping areas exist within this WMA.
Road conditions: Access to some sites requires navigating challenging terrain. Spring Creek Campground has "a rather janky gravel and dirt road leading to it. In the rain, the road would be extremely difficult. Very steep," according to Nathan H.
Limited services: Most tent sites offer minimal amenities. At Rush Landing, a camper notes, "This is primitive camping at its best. They have one vault toilet, 12 tent sites, and a water spigot." Cell service is unavailable at many locations, including Spring Creek Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Best swimming spots: Dillards Ferry offers water access that appeals to families. "Beautiful spot! We were the only people there and it was very beautiful & peaceful. Water was clear & right beside the camp. It isn't my favorite camp site but it is my favorite swim spot," shares Kristen G.
Noise considerations: Be aware that some campgrounds experience evening activity. At Spring Creek, one camper reported, "Other people listening to rave style music late into the night and killing random critters all night and shooting guns all night. Slept horribly as you might imagine with drunk people shooting things all night."
Campground facilities: Rush Landing provides family-friendly amenities with some limitations. Jeyd A. shares, "This is a beautiful campground for the entire family. Fairly quiet at night after 11pm. Very busy during the day and evening time. Water gets crowded with canoers and people with kayaks. Plenty of shade options. Restrooms are pit-style, so dont expect anything fancy."
Tips from RVers
Staging areas for float trips: Gilbert Gravel Bar serves as a convenient starting point for river expeditions. "You can find Gilbert Gravel Bar off 65 just south of the city of St Joe's. Go through the city of Gilbert and you will find parking at the end of the road leading to a fairly large beach/gravel area," explains Arkansas F. The location offers access to supplies in nearby Gilbert.
Limited RV options: Most campgrounds near Norfork accommodate tents only. Gene Rush WMA allows RVs at its designated sites but has no hookups or facilities. One reviewer notes, "There is only a handful of sites spread throughout the WMA and you can only camp in those designated by the game and fish."
Seasonal changes: Several campgrounds close during winter months. COE Norfork Lake Tecumseh Park operates only from May 1 to September 30, though recent construction has impacted its availability.
