About Panther Bay Park
Overview Panther Bay is conveniently located between the Highway 62 and 101 bridges allowing quick and easy access to several hiking trails, marinas, and boat ramps. Recreation Hiking trails in the area lead nature observers and photographers to picturesque overlooks of the Ozarks. A wide array of fresh water game fish are found in the lake, which is fed by the North Fork River and its tributaries. Bass, walleye, crappie, bream and catfish all make their home here. Facilities The campground offers 15 campsites, all with electric hookups and water available for filling holding tanks. Panther Bay Marina and several boat ramps are located nearby to provide easy access to the recreational activities that Norfork Lake has to offer. Natural Features Norfork Lake covers 22,000 acres with 550 miles of shoreline. Densely wooded hills and hollows surround the lake in the Ozark Mountains. The North Fork River feeds into the lake, and beyond the dam, extends on to connect with the White River. Nearby Attractions Hike the Robinson Point National Recreation Trail for wonderful views of the Ozarks. Just south of the lake, The Ozark National Forest spans 1.2 million acres. Contact Info For facility specific information, please call (870) 425-2700.Charges & Cancellations Cancellations up to 2 days before a reservation start date incur a $10.00 cancellation fee.
How to Get There
From Mountain Home, AR, travel approximately 10 miles east on US 412/62. The entrance to the campground will be on the left just before you cross the 62 bridge. Follow signs into campground.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to Panther Bay Park
Heading to Panther Bay Park? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Panther Bay Park?
No central reservation system listed for Panther Bay Park. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10064530) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Panther Bay Park?
From Mountain Home, AR, travel approximately 10 miles east on US 412/62. The entrance to the campground will be on the left just before you cross the 62 bridge. Follow signs into campground.
References & Official Resources
