Straddling the Missouri–Arkansas line, Bull Shoals and Norfork are two of the Ozarks’ biggest lakes — and the cold tailwaters below their dams have made the White and North Fork rivers famous for trout. It’s a laid-back, anglers’ corner of the Ozarks with good highway access, wide-open water and campgrounds right on the river.
Where to camp
Bull Shoals-White River State Park
Bull Shoals-White River State Park stretches along the White River just below Bull Shoals Dam. Its 103 campsites include full-hookup, water/electric and primitive sites, and a trout dock rents boats and gear. For many trout anglers, this is the bucket-list campground of the Ozarks.
Corps of Engineers parks
The Corps operates campgrounds around both lakes. Lakeview sits near Bull Shoals Dam, Theodosia is on the Missouri side by the US-160 bridge, and on Norfork Lake, Quarry Park sits below Norfork Dam while Panther Bay is close to Mountain Home.
Trout fishing basics
The White River below Bull Shoals Dam and the Norfork tailwater stay cold year-round thanks to water released from the bottom of the lakes, supporting rainbow, brown and other trout. Guides, docks and boat rentals are plentiful.
Things to do
- Boating and swimming on Bull Shoals and Norfork lakes.
- Norfork National Fish Hatchery below Norfork Dam — an easy, free stop.
- Mountain Home: the region’s main town for groceries, fuel and RV service.
- Day trip to the Buffalo: Buffalo Point on the Buffalo National River is within an easy drive.
Getting there
US-62 and US-412 run east–west through Mountain Home, while US-160 crosses Bull Shoals Lake on the Missouri side. Roads are hilly but generally comfortable for large RVs, especially compared with the upper Buffalo River.
When to go
Trout fishing is good year-round, and winter can be excellent with fewer anglers. Summer is prime for lake boating and swimming. Spring and fall bring mild weather and the best overall camping conditions.
Bull Shoals RV FAQ
Where is the best place to camp for White River trout fishing?
Bull Shoals-White River State Park sits directly on the White River below Bull Shoals Dam, with a trout dock and boat rentals on site.
Are there full-hookup sites at Bull Shoals?
Yes. Bull Shoals-White River State Park has a small number of full-hookup sites along with many water/electric sites. Most Corps parks offer electric sites.
Which town is the hub for Bull Shoals and Norfork?
Mountain Home, Arkansas, sits between the two lakes and has the area’s main grocery stores, fuel stations and RV services.
Details change — always confirm hookups, rates, site lengths and seasonal closures directly with the campground before you go. Some links may be affiliate links; see our disclosure.
