About BUCK CREEK (MO)
Overview Relax in the shaded campsites at Buck Creek, on the Arkansas side of the massive Bull Shoals Lake. Here, there's plenty of opportunities for water sports, hiking and picnicking. The Peel Ferry, the last remaining state-operated ferry in Arkansas, leaves from Buck Creek. It connects Highway 125 from Arkansas to Missouri for convenient access to the lowers stretches of the lake. Recreation Bull Shoals Lake has great appeal to jet skiers, water skiers, fishermen, birders, hikers and those who just want to "get away from it all." Fall foliage in the area attracts lots of visitors for an annual celebration called the Flaming Fall Revue. Facilities All but two of the 38 sites have electric hookups. The campground caters to kids with a playground and swimming area, and campers with boats can make use of the launch ramp.Natural Features Bull Shoals Lake, spanning upwards of 71,000 acres, is fed from the White River. The river flows from northwest Arkansas to south-central Missouri, and then loops back into central Arkansas where it eventually flows into the Mississippi River. The lake is lined with hardwoods and cedar. Nearby Attractions Visit the Bull Shoals-White River State Park and explore its two hiking trails. The Big Bluff Trail presents views of the White River below Bull Shoals Dam, and the Lakeside Trail meanders along the shores of the lake. 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, take SR 5 N 24 mi. to US 160 JCT. Travel W on US 160 21 mi to Hwy U. Follow SR U 5 mi. S to US 125 for 5.7 mi. to Buck Creek Park Access Road. 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 BUCK CREEK (MO)
Heading to BUCK CREEK (MO)? 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 BUCK CREEK (MO)?
No central reservation system listed for BUCK CREEK (MO). Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232535) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to BUCK CREEK (MO)?
From Mountain Home, AR, take SR 5 N 24 mi. to US 160 JCT. Travel W on US 160 21 mi to Hwy U. Follow SR U 5 mi. S to US 125 for 5.7 mi. to Buck Creek Park Access Road. Follow signs into campground.
How do I contact BUCK CREEK (MO)?
You can reach the park at phone: 417-785-4313.
References & Official Resources
