About BIDWELL POINT PARK
Overview Bidwell Point is tucked below towering oak and pines on the shores of Norfork Lake. Lay on the beach or take the boat out for water skiing on the easily accessible waters of Norfork Lake. Recreation Lake Norfork is home to one of the best striped bass fisheries in Arkansas. Black bass fishing is at its best from September through May, and an increasingly popular sport is night fishing with lights for crappie and White bass.Facilities Campers can reserve one of the waterfront sites for continuous, clear views of the lake. The family-friendly campground maintains a large swim beach and a playground. The sites have electric hookups, as does the group shelter. The group picnic shelter can fit up to 200 guests for any large occasion. Natural Features The forest-topped Ozarks are actually a heavily eroded plateau, shaped and carved by hundreds of streams over several thousand years. Norfork Lake is sourced by the North Fork River in northern Arkansas, which winds through the rugged Ozarks before filling up 22,000 acres of Norfork Lake. 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. 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 9 miles east on US 412/62, then 2 miles north on SR 101. Cross the lake on 101 bridge and take the 1st access road to the right. 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 BIDWELL POINT PARK
Heading to BIDWELL POINT 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 BIDWELL POINT PARK?
No central reservation system listed for BIDWELL POINT PARK. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232523) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to BIDWELL POINT PARK?
From Mountain Home, AR, travel 9 miles east on US 412/62, then 2 miles north on SR 101. Cross the lake on 101 bridge and take the 1st access road to the right. Follow signs into campground.
How do I contact BIDWELL POINT PARK?
You can reach the park at phone: 870-467-5375.
References & Official Resources
