Bull Shoals-White River State Park

By Sarah MitchellOutdoor Editor & Trail ExpertFebruary 5, 2026 · Updated February 20, 2026

World-class trout fishing below Bull Shoals Dam!

Location & Getting There

Bull Shoals-White River State Park is located in Arkansas. The park’s coordinates are 36.3333, -92.5500. Check the park’s official website or your state parks app for detailed driving directions and GPS navigation tips.

Quick Facts

• Location: Arkansas
• Coordinates: 36.3333, -92.5500
• Activities: Hiking, Camping, Fishing, Wildlife Viewing
• Pets: Allowed on leash in most areas (check local rules)

Things to Do

Arkansas state parks showcase the Natural State’s stunning Ozark and Ouachita landscapes — ancient mountains, spring-fed rivers, dramatic bluffs, and pristine caves. Activities include hiking scenic bluff trails with panoramic views, swimming in clear Ozark streams and resort-style park pools, fishing in trophy bass lakes and trout-stocked rivers, camping in forested valleys, kayaking and canoeing spring-fed waterways, caving on guided tours, mountain biking world-class trail systems, rock climbing sandstone bluffs, and exploring Native American heritage sites and Civil War battlefields. Devil’s Den, Petit Jean, and Pinnacle Mountain rank among the finest state parks in the South.

Best Time to Visit

Arkansas parks are best from March through November. Spring brings wildflowers, rushing waterfalls, and comfortable hiking temperatures. Summer (June–August) is hot and humid (90s°F) — swimming, floating, and early morning hikes are the way to go. Fall (October–November) delivers beautiful Ozark foliage peaking mid-to-late October, with excellent hiking conditions. Winter offers peaceful trail solitude and mild temperatures (40s–50s°F) that make hiking pleasant. Arkansas’ extensive lodge system means comfortable indoor stays are available year-round at many parks.

Visitor Tips

Arkansas state parks are free to enter — no vehicle or entrance fees. Camping, cabins, and lodge rooms vary in price. Reservations through arkansasstateparks.com. Arkansas is unique in offering full-service lodges with restaurants inside many state parks — a great option for non-campers. The Diamond Crater and Crystal Mine parks let visitors keep whatever gems they find. Cell service is spotty in the Ozark backcountry. Ticks are very active March through October — take precautions.

Explore More Arkansas State Parks

Bull Shoals-White River State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Arkansas. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Arkansas guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.

About the Author

Sarah Mitchell

Outdoor Editor & Trail Expert

Sarah Mitchell is an outdoor writer and trail researcher with over 8 years of experience exploring state parks across America. As the lead editor at AmericasStateParks.org, she has personally visited more than 200 parks in 42 states, logging thousands of trail miles and hundreds of campground nights. Sarah specializes in detailed park guides, accessibility information, and family-friendly outdoor planning. Her work focuses on helping first-time visitors feel confident and well-prepared for their state park adventures.

200+ state parks visited across 42 states | 8+ years of outdoor writing

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