Dam - Quarry
4.54101 reviews170 Picnic Drive
Quick Facts
Price
$24 - $80/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
67 campsites
Season
Open April 1 through...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Allowed
RV FriendlyElectricShowers
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
Price
$24 - $80/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
67 campsites
Season
Open April 1 through...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Allowed
RV FriendlyElectricShowers
Get DirectionsDam - Quarry
$24.00 - $80.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Facility rates vary by season and site type. Peak-season fees range from $24-$80 per site, while non-peak fees range from $24-$65.
Standard Site Fee$24.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$80.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$104.00
Get Notified When Available
We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.
Free with account · Checks every 2 minutes
167,000+ sites monitored · Email, SMS, or in-app notifications
Share this campground
Recreation Dot Gov
Provider870-499-7216
What Campers Say
4.54
Top-Rated
Based on 101 reviews
206 Google reviews
Most mentioned
cleanspaciouslakestaff
"User reviews for Dam Quarry Campground are generally positive, with an average campground-specific sentiment of 4.33. The campground is lauded for its cleanliness, scenic beauty, and excellent fishing opportunities."
Fees & Passes at Dam - Quarry
$24 - $80/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Group Site
For large groups
Stay Limit: Maximum stay of 14 nights during a single visit within rolling 30 days.
Cancellation: Cancellations up to 2 days before reservation incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations subtract the first...
Prices verified December 7, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Recreation.gov website.
Best Time to Camp at Dam - Quarry
The rhythms of the seasons paint Dam Quarry in ever-changing hues, from crisp winter mornings when frost sparkles on the riverbanks to balmy summer evenings cooled by gentle breezes flowing down from the dam. Spring arrives with wildflowers dotting the hillsides and perfect fishing conditions, while autumn transforms the Ozark canopy into a tapestry of gold and crimson. These shoulder seasons offer the sweet spot for camping—comfortable temperatures, low humidity, and nature at its most photogenic.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: April 1 - October 31 (peak season). November 1 - December 31 (non-peak season).. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open April 1 through December 31, with reservations required starting June 21 each year.
About Dam - Quarry
Nestled at the base of Norfork Dam, Dam Quarry Campground beckons anglers from across the nation to experience some of the finest trout fishing in America. This riverside haven seamlessly blends world-class fishing with the natural splendor of the Ozarks, where crystal-clear waters meet ancient forested hills. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, paddling through morning mist, or hiking scenic trails that wind through the surrounding wilderness, every moment here connects you with the untamed beauty of Arkansas's premier water recreation destination.
The campground accommodates a variety of camping preferences, including RV, tent, group, and primitive camping.
Historical SignificanceLong before Instagram made it famous, the Norfork Lake region pioneered Arkansas's water recreation culture, drawing generations of families to its pristine shores and legendary fishing holes. Today, this heritage lives on through the nearby fish hatchery, where curious visitors can witness the fascinating lifecycle of trout and discover the science behind maintaining these world-class fisheries. It's more than a campground—it's a living classroom where outdoor traditions pass from one generation to the next.
Weather and SeasonsThe rhythms of the seasons paint Dam Quarry in ever-changing hues, from crisp winter mornings when frost sparkles on the riverbanks to balmy summer evenings cooled by gentle breezes flowing down from the dam. Spring arrives with wildflowers dotting the hillsides and perfect fishing conditions, while autumn transforms the Ozark canopy into a tapestry of gold and crimson. These shoulder seasons offer the sweet spot for camping—comfortable temperatures, low humidity, and nature at its most photogenic.
ElevationPositioned strategically downstream from the towering Norfork Dam, the campground occupies a unique sweet spot where the controlled waters of the dam create an ideal microclimate. This riverside setting places you at the perfect vantage point to experience both the engineering marvel of the dam and the natural flow of the river as it continues its ancient journey through the Ozark valleys.
Natural Features and SceneryHere, the Ozarks reveal their most enchanting face—emerald hills rise and fall like frozen waves, their slopes cloaked in dense forests that whisper stories of centuries past. The North Fork River and Dry Run Creek converge in a dance of currents, creating diverse aquatic habitats that support abundant wildlife. Just beyond, the vast expanse of 22,000-acre Norfork Lake stretches to the horizon, while the ancient hardwoods of Ozark National Forest stand sentinel over this outdoor playground, offering endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.
Geological RegionDeep in the heart of the Ozarks, where ancient limestone bluffs and hidden caves tell stories written in stone millions of years ago, Dam Quarry Campground sits at nature's crossroads. The dramatic topography of forested hills and mysterious hollows creates a landscape of endless discovery, while the confluence of the North Fork River and Dry Run Creek has carved out a fertile valley that serves as both sanctuary and playground. This is where the geological wonders of the Ozarks meet the engineering achievement of Norfork Lake, creating a 22,000-acre aquatic paradise framed by some of Arkansas's most spectacular scenery.
Advertisement
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible amenities include flush toilets, showers, parking, campsites, picnic shelters, and boat ramps. The campground is well-suited for individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeCampsites are spacious, with one user noting, "Our site had a built-in shelter area with a table," and others mentioning sites large enough for RVs and large tents.
Sites PrivacySites along the river were highlighted as the most private and scenic. However, some complaints note that RV spaces away from the river were "very tight and too close to neighbors."
Total Campsites67 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose riverside sites for views and proximity to fishing access. Sites 60, 58, and 57 are highly recommended for their scenic beauty.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
Reveal picks
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 nights during a single visit within rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- General sites are large enough for tents or RVs
- specific guest capacity per site is not mentioned explicitly.
Groups
Group camping options include sites with electric hookups. Group shelters are also available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are arranged in loops with paved roads throughout. Riverside sites are highly sought after. Group accommodations available.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen April 1 through December 31, with reservations required starting June 21 each year.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online or app, or via the contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites may be available for walk-up visitors outside of advance reservation windows, but limited availability is expected during peak season.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations up to 2 days before reservation incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations subtract the first-night fee in addition to the $10 cancellation charge.
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
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
The Dam Quarry Campground offers a plethora of activities catering to outdoor enthusiasts. Trout fishing is the standout activity, with the nearby fish hatchery being a popular attraction. Other activities include birding, hiking, kayaking, and hunting on public lands nearby.
Hiking
Hiking trails are accessible from the campground, including small trails along the river. A reviewer noted proximity to the Norfolk hiking trail.Fishing
Dam Quarry is renowned for world-class trout fishing. Several users praised the fishing experience, with one reviewer calling it "the best," and another highlighting "walk-in fishing access."Swimming
Swimming options include the river and nearby Norfork Lake, with a user commenting, "We swam in the lake while we were there. Norfork lake is always nice and clear."Biking
Paved roads within the campground allow for biking, making it family-friendly as noted by users.Boating
The campground features a boat ramp and marina, providing easy access for boating activities.Wildlife viewing
Opportunities for birding and wildlife spotting are present, with the Ozark National Forest nearby enhancing this experience.Winter Activities
Winter camping is possible as the campground is open year-round, though specific winter activities are not detailed.Water Sports
Kayaking and canoeing are available on the river, with multiple users highlighting water recreation as a draw.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated rings. Restrictions apply during burn bans or dry periods.
Hazards
General hazardsTicks and tall grass have been noted at some campsites. Seasonal river smells may be unpleasant. Wildlife interactions possible, including deer and turkey.
Weather at Dam - Quarry
45
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 79%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 5.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
Powered by AI weather analysis
Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services are in Mountain Home, AR (14 miles away), which provides hospitals, police stations, and fire departments.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 1 - October 31 (peak season). November 1 - December 31 (non-peak season).
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available. Recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned in the reviews.
Proximity to water featuresProximity to the North Fork River, Dry Run Creek, and Norfork Lake. River access for fishing and boating is available.
Common complaintsSome complaints include tall grass, dirty bathrooms during peak season, and minor staffing issues.
HostHosts are generally described as friendly and helpful, although isolated complaints of rudeness have been mentioned.
Campground Map
170 Picnic Drive
Driving directionsFrom Mountain Home, AR, take State Route 5 south 14 miles to Salesville, then turn left on State Route 177 for 2 miles. Park is located below Norfolk Dam. Follow signs into the campground.
Fully accessible via paved roads year-round. The road quality is good, but navigation might be challenging for travelers unfamiliar with the area.Nearby places
Mountain Home (14 miles, approximately 20 minutes)
Norfork (3 miles, approximately 5 minutes)
Ozark National Forest (short drive south).
Nearby supplies
A Dollar General is located within 2 miles of the campground for last-minute essentials. Larger grocery stores and other services are available in Mountain Home (14 miles away).
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.5
101 reviews
Dam - Quarry is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Dam Quarry Campground are generally positive, with an average campground-specific sentiment of 4.33. The campground is lauded for its cleanliness, scenic beauty, and excellent fishing opportunities.
Review Summaries
Based on 101 reviews
What Campers Love
Common praises include clean and well-maintained facilities, exceptional trout fishing, spacious campsites, and friendly staff. A user stated, "This is probably one of the nicer campgrounds we’ve...
Based on 101 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Negative feedback highlights issues such as overgrown grass, crowded RV spots, and bathrooms needing updates. One user noted, "Grass needs cut on bank and around hookup," and another mentioned, "The...
Based on 101 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend reserving riverside spots for the best experience, visiting the fish hatchery across the road, and exploring local eateries like Whispering Woods Grill and Heidi's Ugly Cakes.
Based on 101 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Spring and fall are highlighted as ideal seasons due to moderate weather and excellent fishing. Summer offers clear skies and river breezes but may feel crowded.
Based on 101 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Great trout fishing and bird watching highly recommend this place," "Nice camp host and park staff very friendly," and "The bath house has individual bathrooms with a shower. Very nice."
Based on 101 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site #58 offers picturesque views of the tailwaters, while site #13 is noted for its river overlook. Sites near the river are generally considered superior.
Based on 101 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible features are well-appreciated, with users noting clean and easy-to-use facilities.
Based on 101 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome, though one user expressed frustration with grassy areas causing stickers in their dog's paws.
Based on 101 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
0
0 review
1
2
3
4
5
Last updated December 7, 2025
Advertisement