Bidwell Point Park
4.80211 reviews106 Bidwell Park Pt, Gamaliel, AR, 72537, USA
Bidwell Point Park
$24.00 - $26.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$26.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$50.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Rates for standard electric sites range between $24.00 and $26.00 per night. The group shelter, which can host up to 200 people, is available for $50.00 per night.
About this campground
Beneath a majestic canopy of ancient oaks and whispering pines, Bidwell Point Park emerges as a hidden gem along the pristine shores of Norfork Lake. This beloved family destination seamlessly blends outdoor adventure with modern comfort, where days begin with sunrise filtering through the forest and end with laughter around the campfire. With convenient electric hookups at every site, a sprawling sandy swim beach perfect for building memories, and a vibrant playground where children's imaginations run wild, this scenic retreat transforms ordinary camping trips into extraordinary lakeside adventures.
Bidwell Point Park accommodates a variety of camping styles, including RV, tent, and group camping. This flexibility makes it suitable for a wide range of visitors.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the rhythmic dance of seasons at Bidwell Point, where each time of year paints the landscape in distinct hues. Summer arrives with warm, languid days perfect for swimming and lazy afternoons on the water, though humidity wraps around you like a familiar Southern embrace. Spring and fall emerge as the crown jewels of camping season, offering crisp mornings, comfortable days, and spectacular displays of wildflowers or autumn foliage. Nature's powerful forces occasionally make their presence known through seasonal flooding in spring and early summer, reminding visitors of the dynamic relationship between land and water in this vibrant ecosystem.
ElevationElevation-related details are not explicitly provided.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into nature's masterpiece where the legendary Ozark wilderness meets the shimmering expanse of Norfork Lake. This enchanting landscape unfolds like pages from an adventure novel - dense forests cascade down to meet crystal-clear waters, creating a sanctuary where eagles soar overhead and deer emerge at twilight to drink from secluded coves. The rugged terrain tells ancient stories through weathered rock faces and hidden hollows, while the lake's fingers reach deep into forested valleys, creating countless intimate spots for discovery and reflection.
Geological RegionBidwell Point rests atop the ancient Ozark plateau, a geological wonder sculpted by millions of years of patient water work. This rugged highland, cloaked in dense forest, bears the artistic marks of countless streams that carved deep valleys and dramatic bluffs into the bedrock. At its heart lies the magnificent Norfork Lake - a 22,000-acre aquatic jewel born from the North Fork River's waters. This stunning reservoir winds through the weathered plateau like a serpent of sapphire, its creation transforming an already spectacular landscape into one of the region's most cherished outdoor playgrounds.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible campsites are available, and the park is generally accommodating for individuals with mobility needs. Specific accessibility features were not detailed in the reviews.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as spacious, with some being large enough to accommodate extra vehicles, boats, or trailers. For instance, one reviewer highlighted, 'The site has water and 30/20 amp, 120-volt electric available, both utilities worked well.'
Sites PrivacyThe level of privacy varies across the campground. Some sites offer good separation and greenery, while others are closer together or near high-traffic areas.
Total Campsites55 campsites
Recommended CampsitesWaterfront sites offer the best views but can be exposed to strong winds. Sites 28 and 34 are recommended for their scenery and privacy.
Best CampsitesSites 28 and 34 were highly praised for their lake views, spacious layout, and proximity to the water.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Official check-in time information is not provided.
Check-out
Official check-out time information is not provided.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Groups
The group picnic shelter can accommodate up to 200 guests, making it suitable for large gatherings and events.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features a mix of waterfront and forested sites arranged in a loop, providing options for a variety of camping preferences.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season begins April 1 and ends October 30, with reservations available within this timeframe.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo specific details provided about walk-up availability, though reservations are highly recommended for securing a site during peak seasons.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations up to 2 days before a reservation start date incur a $10.00 cancellation fee. Late cancellations forfeit the first night's fees.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Bidwell Point Park offers a variety of recreational activities centered around the scenic Norfork Lake. Visitors can enjoy fishing, swimming, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The campground is particularly popular for its fishing opportunities, with the lake home to striped bass, crappie, and White bass.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available nearby, including the Robinson Point National Recreation Trail, which offers stunning views of the Ozarks. Specific trail details such as length and difficulty levels were not provided.Fishing
Fishing is a major attraction at Norfork Lake, with striped bass being a highlight. Black bass fishing is at its best from September through May, and night fishing with lights for crappie and White bass is increasingly popular. User reviews consistently praise the quality of fishing at the lake.Swimming
A designated swimming beach is available at the campground. While it is generally well-maintained, some users noted that high water levels occasionally impact its usability. One review mentioned, 'The water was high, so there was no swimming beach.'Boating
Boating is a popular activity on Norfork Lake. Visitors can easily access the water for activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and motorboating. One user noted the convenience of the boat ramp and trailer parking.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as deer, foxes, and various bird species are commonly seen. A reviewer mentioned, 'We have seen fox, deer, raccoon, chipmunks, squirrels, woodpeckers, and many other birds.' Recommended areas for wildlife viewing were not specified.Beach activities
The swim beach allows for sunbathing and recreational swimming. However, some reviews noted that the beach area could use more frequent maintenance.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding are popular on Norfork Lake. Specific rental options or designated areas were not mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated fire rings.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsSome campers noted high water levels affecting site accessibility and increased tick activity in wooded areas.
Active alertsSeasonal flooding in spring and early summer may affect some sites.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 24
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 89%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 4.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest hospital and emergency services are located in Mountain Home, AR, approximately 9 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 1 - October 30.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available on-site. Specific details about pickup schedules or locations were not provided in the source material.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located along the shoreline of Norfork Lake, offering direct access to water for recreational activities.
Common complaintsFlooding at certain times of the year, inconsistent maintenance of some facilities, and occasional issues with other campers leaving trash were noted concerns.
HostHost Brian and his wife Diane received numerous positive reviews for their friendliness, helpful nature, and active presence in maintaining the campground.
Campground Map
106 Bidwell Park Pt, Gamaliel, AR, 72537, USA
Driving directionsFrom 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 the campground.
Roads to the campground are accessible and include paved routes. However, some reviews mention that high water levels at certain times of the year can impact accessibility to specific sites.Nearby places
Mountain Home (9 miles, approximately 15 minutes by car)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies, including groceries, camping gear, and fuel, are available in Mountain Home, AR, a 15-minute drive from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.8
211 reviews
Bidwell Point Park is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Bidwell Point Park are overwhelmingly positive, with many campers praising the cleanliness, scenic views, and helpfulness of the park host. Some concerns were raised about occasional maintenance issues and high water levels impacting certain facilities.
Review Summaries
Based on 211 reviews
What Campers Love
The park is consistently described as clean, peaceful, and well-maintained. Campers frequently commend the park host, Brian, for his friendly and accommodating nature. Many reviews highlight the...
Based on 211 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some users reported issues such as ticks, high water levels affecting access to certain facilities, and maintenance concerns like gravel not being leveled and damaged fire rings. Cleanliness of...
Based on 211 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Reviewers recommend choosing sites with good lake views and shaded areas. They also suggest bringing insect repellent due to ticks. Several users mentioned the convenience of being close to Mountain...
Based on 211 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The best fishing is from September through May, and summer months are popular for swimming and boating. High water levels were noted as a seasonal challenge, impacting beach usability and site...
Based on 211 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The campground host, Brian, is amazing and goes above and beyond to ensure a great stay." "The views of the lake are incredible, and the sites are clean and spacious." "Clean bathhouses with hot...
Based on 211 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #13 is noted for its beautiful lake view, while Site #11 is described as spacious but with high traffic due to its proximity to the water. Site #27 had issues with a bad water relief pressure...
Based on 211 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessible sites are available, but specific feedback on accessibility features was not detailed in the reviews.
Based on 211 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and some users appreciated the pet-friendly environment but mentioned keeping pets away from ticks.
Based on 211 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025