Buck Creek Gate House

For those in Arkansas seeking the quintessential lakeside camping experience, Buck Creek Gate House, located within Buck Creek Park in Peel, offers an idyllic escape. Situated on the scenic northern side of Bull Shoals Lake, very close to the Missouri border, this campground is a cherished destination for both relaxation and recreation. Managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Buck Creek Park provides a well-maintained and family-friendly environment that caters to a variety of outdoor enthusiasts, whether you're bringing an RV, setting up a tent, or simply looking to enjoy the vast expanse of Bull Shoals Lake.

Buck Creek Park is more than just a place to stay; it's a gateway to endless aquatic adventures and serene moments in nature. Bull Shoals Lake, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and expansive size, is a true "water sports paradise" right at your fingertips. Here, you can immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Arkansas Ozarks, enjoying everything from tranquil mornings on the water to lively afternoons on the swim beach. The campground’s strategic location and thoughtful amenities ensure that your visit is both convenient and memorable. As one satisfied visitor enthusiastically stated, "Love, love, LOVE!! IT WAS AWESOME!" With its combination of natural charm and user-friendly facilities, Buck Creek Gate House stands out as a prime choice for your next Arkansas outdoor adventure.

Buck Creek Gate House is ideally situated at 10612 AR-125, Peel, AR 72668, USA. This location places it perfectly on the north side of Bull Shoals Lake, directly near the Arkansas-Missouri border. For Arkansas locals, its accessibility is a significant advantage, making it a convenient destination for a quick weekend getaway or a longer vacation without extensive travel. The campground's entrance is notably just uphill from where the famous Peel Ferry disembarks passengers and vehicles on the north side of the lake, providing a unique and charming landmark for navigation.

The ease of access to Buck Creek Gate House extends to its well-maintained roads, which are suitable for all types of vehicles, including large RVs. This ensures a smooth journey to your chosen campsite. The Peel Ferry itself is a significant aspect of the park's accessibility, offering a free and scenic shortcut across a section of Bull Shoals Lake, saving travelers a considerable detour. This unique transportation method not only makes the park more reachable but also adds an element of adventure to the trip. The surrounding areas, while offering a sense of seclusion and natural beauty, are still within a reasonable distance to local amenities in Peel and nearby communities, blending the best of wilderness immersion with necessary conveniences.

Buck Creek Gate House, as part of Buck Creek Park, offers a comprehensive range of services and facilities designed to provide a comfortable and convenient camping experience for all visitors.

• Campsites with Electric Hookups: The campground features 38 campsites, with all but two offering 30 & 50 amp electric hookups. This accommodates both RVs and tents, providing essential power for various camping needs.

• Water Hookups: All campsites also provide access to potable drinking water.

• Flush Toilets and Showers: Well-maintained modern flush toilets and hot showers are available, ensuring comfort and hygiene for campers. As one reviewer suggested, bringing sanitizing wipes and water shoes can enhance the shower experience.

• Trailer Dump Station: A convenient dump station is available on-site for RV campers, making waste disposal hassle-free.

• Boat Launch Ramp: A dedicated boat launch ramp provides direct and easy access to Bull Shoals Lake for all types of watercraft, essential for boating and fishing enthusiasts.

• Swimming Area: A designated swimming area allows for safe and enjoyable swimming in the clear waters of Bull Shoals Lake.

• Playground: A playground is available, offering a fun and safe space for younger visitors to enjoy.

• Picnic Shelter: A reservable group picnic shelter is provided, ideal for larger gatherings and family events.

• Marina Access: The park provides access to a marina, which typically offers additional services such as boat rentals, fuel, bait, and tackle, enhancing your lake experience (specific marina services may vary and should be confirmed).

• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite generally includes a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill, perfect for outdoor cooking and enjoying campfires under the stars.

Buck Creek Gate House and its surrounding park offer several distinctive features and highlights that make it a premier camping destination in Arkansas, particularly for those drawn to lakeside activities and natural beauty.

• Direct Access to Bull Shoals Lake: The most significant highlight is its immediate and extensive access to Bull Shoals Lake, a sprawling 71,000-acre body of water renowned for its pristine conditions. This makes it a paradise for all water sports, including excellent fishing for bass, crappie, and walleye, as well as boating, water skiing, and jet skiing.

• Proximity to Peel Ferry: A unique and charming feature is its location right by the Peel Ferry, the last remaining free, state-operated ferry in Arkansas. Riding this ferry provides a scenic experience and a practical shortcut across a section of the lake, connecting campers to additional exploration opportunities in Missouri.

• Family-Friendly Amenities: The presence of a dedicated swimming area, a playground, and a group picnic shelter ensures that the park caters to families with children, providing safe and engaging activities for all ages.

• Shaded and Partially Shaded Sites: The campground offers many shaded and partially shaded sites, providing welcome relief during warmer months and enhancing the comfort of your stay.

• Ozark Mountain Setting: Surrounded by the beautiful Ozark Mountain foothills and dense forests, the park offers picturesque views and a tranquil natural environment, perfect for unwinding and appreciating the local flora and fauna.

• Nearby Hiking Trails: While the lake is the main draw, nearby Bull Shoals-White River State Park offers additional recreational opportunities, including hiking trails like the Big Bluff Trail and the Lakeside Trail, providing stunning vistas and chances for birdwatching.

• Exceptional Staff Support: As highlighted in customer reviews, the staff, like "Shaun and his family," are often praised for being incredibly helpful and accommodating, even bending over backwards to meet unique needs. This level of customer service significantly enhances the overall camping experience.

For inquiries, reservations, or more information about Buck Creek Gate House and Buck Creek Park, please use the following contact details.

Address: 10612 AR-125, Peel, AR 72668, USA

Phone: (417) 785-4313

Mobile Phone: +1 417-785-4313

Reservations for campsites at Buck Creek Park are typically made through the National Recreation Reservation Service via recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. It is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak seasons.

For locals throughout Arkansas, Buck Creek Gate House within Buck Creek Park is an exceptional choice for an outdoor adventure, offering a wealth of reasons to visit. Its prime location directly on Bull Shoals Lake provides Arkansans with immediate access to one of the state's most treasured natural resources for boating, fishing, and swimming. This easy accessibility means less time traveling and more time enjoying the beautiful waters and serene surroundings of the Ozarks, making it ideal for both quick weekend trips and extended vacations.

The park's comprehensive amenities, including electric and water hookups, clean restrooms, showers, and a playground, ensure a comfortable and family-friendly experience. The unique charm of the nearby Peel Ferry adds a delightful and memorable aspect to the journey, transforming a simple drive into part of the adventure. As evidenced by glowing customer reviews, the dedicated and helpful staff contribute significantly to the positive atmosphere, making visitors feel truly welcome and well-cared for. For Arkansans seeking a convenient, amenity-rich, and beautiful lakeside camping experience that captures the essence of their state's outdoor offerings, Buck Creek Gate House on Bull Shoals Lake is a truly outstanding and highly recommended destination. It’s a place where lasting memories are made amidst the stunning landscapes of Arkansas.