Spring River Reviews

I've been visiting the area for many years and always enjoy the beautiful scenery and the river. The only issue (for campers) regardless of which of the many area camps are the trains that bisect the area hourly 24 hours a day loudly blowing their horns at every intersection they pass. Bring ear plugs.

Stayed at Riverside Resort on Spring River. Staff was very helpful. Very scenic and peaceful except for the trains that would come by a lot. But it is a good trip if you want to get away from city life.

My son and I kayaked and camped at Riverside Campground. Spring River is beautiful and the timing was good because the river wasn't packed with party college kids. We kayaked 8 miles. The upper half was easily manageable, however the bottom half was more difficult for novice kayakers. We were flipped out twice and walked away with several bumps and bruises from getting tossed into the rocks. I would recommend a raft unless you have kayaked in the past. Riverside Campground was nice and the staff friendly. I recommend you bring your own firewood and beware there are trains that run 24 hours through the area.

I've been coming to the Spring River for canoe trips for almost 30 years. Each trip is memorable in its own special way. The water temperature is around 58 degrees, so be prepared for a cool and refreshing trip down the river. Although I've heard some chatter about the river not being as family-oriented as it once was, our experience was great. We were on the river early on a Sunday morning, and only came across roughly 20 canoes during our journey from Dam #3 to Many Islands.

When canoeing, please note that a majority of the rapids are easy to navigate. The only really challenging one is Dead Man's Curve. If one or both parties in the canoe are novices, I would suggest walking your canoe over the rocks and around this portion of the river.

Packing for the river is easy: a cooler with beverages and snacks, sunscreen, and life preservers for everyone.

Wow, where should I start, terrible experience will not stay again. Myself and my 3 daughters went for Labor Day weekend tent camping and a float trip, wanted to stay Friday and Saturday night but we still had to pay for a minimum of 3 nights $30 a piece, so $120 plus tax, ok seemed steep for tent camping but I was ok with it. We got to the campground there are no assigned camp spots so you just have to search and find what you can, the one we found had some huge tunneling and I mean huge from some sort of animal, we didn't see the animal and that's a good thing, still freaky. Camping so I don't expect luxury accommadations but the one bathroom within walking distance had 2 bathroom stalls and one shower, I could handle all that, but the floor was covered in about 3 inches of water and the water was coming up out of the floor drain, so basically backing up, gross. The day we floated, rented a float from the campground, had barely gotten in the river when one part of the tube started losing air and then about midway through our trip a branch or something popped the tube we basically had to all 4 sit on the one side that was still inflated for about another 2 hours to get back to the pickup point. I was expecting to receive my $50 deposit I had made, the woman in the office was like "what did yall do to the raft".......totally rude and said they would be keeping our deposit. Anyway over all the place was dirty, the staff was rude and we will never go back.

To everyone talking about seeing breasts at spring river dont go during a holiday weekend go before or after use a little common sense

We stayed at Riverside Resort campground for a weekend float on Spring River. Spring River is great...beautiful scenery, rapids...a great float! Riverside Resort is a joke---trains go by every 22 minutes blowing their whistles, yet we were told we were being too loud while sitting around our campfire chatting. "Security" would stalk around our site in the dark, coming up from behind the RV's and shining flashlights in our face...just to tell us to be quiet, or turn down a radio. We overheard them bragging to nearby campers how many people they'd kicked out the previous weekend. Police were called on us, and other campers...as far as I could tell, they'd done nothing wrong, either. There's a much better way to approach a group to tell them to quiet down...they certainly don't handle it well. Our large group of friends makes this trip to Spring River every year...we will never return to Riverside Resort.

The RV park sit right on the spring river. It's kind of hard to find. It's just south of Highway nine on Highway 63. Claudia Freeman owns the place and runs a very clean and respectable park. The state of Arkansas stocks the river right there at her RV park. So there is plenty of rainbow trout in the river.

My husband and i stayed from friday til wednesday of this month . we loved it . best place for fishing trout during the week and rafting on the weekend. No mosquitos by the river . the water stays a nice 53 degrees. Security is very tight . its a great safe place to get out of town for peace and quiet. We cant wait to get back. All of the pictures i am posting are of the resorts property . its wonderful . NOT A PLACE FOR LOUD PARTYS OR PARTIERS.

My husband & I have been staying at Mammoth Spring Campground for the past 2 years. This is a family campground right on the river where the kids can play in the water or fish. We have always had good luck fishing there with both fly rods and spin casters. The owners are very friendly down home people who make you feel at home. We have only had one problem the entire time we have camped there and the owners took care of it immediately. We have always enjoyed the campground, and the river in any season. We have taken our children and grandchildren to the campground and they all love it as much as we do.

Loved the place people around town was great. Fishing was not auto great it rained and stormed the hole visit

The Spring River is the best vacation spot on the planet! GoSpringRiver.com really helped us plan our trip and everyone is so friendly in that area. Totally recommend a trip to Spring River.

We camped at Riverside Resort this past weekend. The campsites were so close together. The showers were cold every time. There was never hot water at the bathroom sinks. The campsite was just mud. There was very little grass and no gravel. I saw that other people had brought their own straw to throw out on the mud. Because the campsites were so close together it seemed very loud all the time. The train came through constantly. This weekend cost more than what we normally pay to camp but we felt like we got less for our money. We wont be going back.

Spring river is one of the most simple most beautiful fun places i have ever been. I lived an hour from spring river and went almost every weekend during the summer when we werent at the lake. I am 21 so when we go we drink party have bonfires and get a little crazy but thats only on big holiday weekends. I definitly recommend doing the float trip and stopping at every island to party!! All down the river is cabins with music dancing so the whole river float feels like a party!! if u dont do a float trip there then ur not getting the most amazing experience. It has been the one place that when i think of all my fondest memories they are there. the float trips the bonfires the partying. Everyones so relaxed and just wanting to have a good time it makes for an unforgettable vacation but i do recommend if u go on a holiday weekend make sure to lock ur valueable things in ur vehicles because of course people will steal it if u leave it out but thats just like any place. and about not taking kids there i personally have went there since i was two years old and have never remember seeing anything very vulgar or anything i know there is some boobs shown but who hasnt seen em come on if u dont want your kids to see that then stay on a different part of the river besides many islands because many islands is definitely the party place to go on the river!

I have been floating the Spring River for close to 40 years. It is a beautiful river that is fun to canoe, kayak or raft. Over the years it has gone from a cool relaxing trip to a drunk party. I have no problem with people enjoying themselves but you have to respect the environment you are in. I have seen my dad save people from drowning. One time he almost drown trying to help someone that was drunk. I like that Hardy and Mammoth Springs keep the old time vibe going making them family friendly. I then read the reviews and find myself asking why do the authorities not keep the river the same. Many Island was a family friendly place to stay, unfortunately after many years of staying there we had to quit because it was scary. Which I honestly do not understand because we floated the river on Labor Day and when we went by there it looked like a bomb had gone off. Why they would want to clean that mess is beyond me. Not to mention that 3 or 4 picnic tables were upside down in the fall. The showers were so bad the last time we stayed I honestly think I was cleaner getting out of the river. We rented kayaks from Riverside and they were extremely nice and the place was very nice with the exception of the bathhouse. I was very nasty and i was taken back by this since everything else was as neat as a pin. If you kayak with them it is good to know that the one take out point is in a field so be sure and call at the point they tell you to. After staying at a hotel due to rain and paying much less than we had at Many Islands we usually just stay at a hotel. Which to us was crazy that we paid more for a night of camping than a night in a hotel. After reading reviews I am surprised by the people that party on the river that say things about families not belonging there on the weekends. This is a beautiful place made ugly by people that do not respect the river or other people around them and that is a shame.

Spring river is a beautiful place to fish, float, and swim. There are a few times of the year when it is best to keep the kids at home like Memorial Weekend, Spring Break and Labor day weekend. Though as a kid growing up on this river I don't remember ever seeing anything I souldn't have but other than these times thie river is a calm beautiful place where you can relax and catch some fish as the current carries you down river. This is one of the most peacful places on earth. I have floated down this river every year since I was 13 years old and I am 24. I couldn't imagine a better place to chill all summer long.

To avoid the crowds and partying, we stay around Mammoth Spring, above dam 3. This stretch of the river is the best of both worlds. It has great fishing, very few people, and allows you to relax. Tip.... find somewhere to sit and watch the fog rising off the river one evening. Perfection!!

This was our 5th family vacation to the Spring River and we always stay at Mammoth Spring Campground (you can find them on Facebook) because the cabins are cozy and we can launch our kayaks from there. There's a stretch of river between the campground and Cold Spring Access which provides some great fishing or just a peaceful relaxing float. It's a short drive down to dam 3 where you can visit the hatchery and catch even more fish!

If you want to enjoy some great trout fishing, the Spring River is a great place. If you want to enjoy the Spring River without dealing with parties, stay above dam 3.

We had a group of 5 couples stay at many islands this weekend and were constantly harassed by a group of guys from a few lots over. After they kept walking up on our tents threatening us we told security and they did absolutely nothing to help. At one point security pulled up and caught the guys walking around our tents when we were almost asleep. We jumped up out of our tents and immediately pointed them out to the officer as we had them caught red handed snooping around our belongings for the third time that night. The officer sat in his golf cart and did NOTHING as the guys walked back to their site screaming threats to us. We finally had to call the sheriff dept and 30 minutes later a deputy showed up and took reports from us. There are many other camp sites that are nicer that may cost more. Next time I will spend more money for a decent place.

We went to many islands Campground for rafting and family camping. We pulled in Friday afternoon there was 4 of us and we all got charged $10 a piece for each day that we were there which was shocking that we paid $130 for 3 days, it was nice that the girl told us we could go anywhere we want and pick a spot. But when we drove into the campground we were greeted by a man in a hat that told us family camping over here and party camping over there. He said I see you've got two teenage daughters I recommend the family camping. We drove around both camping areas and found the spot on the other side next to the river, it was beautiful and picturesque. We set our camp up and two hours later we see the same man riding a golf cart coming to the campers next to us and asking them to take the picnic table out of the river. He was very polite at first but the campers next to us gave him a hard time!. We watched he walked over to what we thought was the leader of the group spoke to him quietly then they started to scurry and get the table out of the river as he got back onto his cart he drove by us and said have a great day if you need anything let me know I see you chose the fun side of the campground have a great time... as the day went on the group continued to drink next to us and louder and louder they got the foul language and the comments they made to my daughter started to make me feel uncomfortable. Another person rode by on a golf cart I approached him and told him what was going on, he laughed and said you'll have that on Memorial Day weekend and drove off. As night fell it got worse I thought I was in a horror movie. When my daughter came to me and said Dad the guys next to us are shooting drugs. I raised my daughter's well and didn't think they were shooting drugs I did smell pot and fluffed It Off. If security wasn't worried about them I shouldn't be either,? Boy was I wrong!! As night fell they started to encroach our campsite. We approached the man that said it was Memorial Day weekend now wearing a trash bag! And he directed us to The Man In Charge an elderly bald-headed man told us he will take care of it. Several times the man in the trash bag drove around and did nothing. Then I spotted the man earlier in the day, drive by the one in the baseball cap that got them to take the picnic table out of the river. I went up to him to tell him the situation that had been going on all day long, he smiled at me and said that's why I told you, you should have picked a spot in the family section but I'll go over and see what I can do for you... he did and went to the man that he spoke to earlier about the picnic table. It is now 10 p.m. and the man's attitude had changed and gave the man in the cap a good shove putting him in the river. He Fall all the way in but you could tell he was wet all the way to the knees I felt bad and I was going to go over and see if I can offer assistance because he did it on my behalf.! But I didn't I stood and watched. The man in the Hat got out of the river and walked up to the man again. No change in his demeanor I could not hear what they were saying but the other four guys started to gather around, and I saw the man in the Hat pointing up to the field, at that moment one of the other guys went to push the man in the Hat I truly don't know what happened but that man and the leader fell to the ground. All the rest of the men started to pick up their stuff, in five minutes all of their stuff was picked up and they were in the truck leaving the area. And my daughter caught my attention and said mr. Rivers coming to talk to you. He said to me hope this helps you have a great weekend and got on his cart and drove off. Later that night a bunch of guys in a pickup truck I think it was the same ones started driving by our campsite hollering cat calls to my daughters. Later that night I saw mr. River again the gentleman in the dog baseball cap and asked him if I could get a refund because I didn't feel like it would be safe for us to stay there. He told me that I could pack up and move to the family side of the campground but he could not authorize a refund for me I would have to see the office in the morning. At 2 in the morning we packed up and left many islands Campground never to return but if you ever stay there be aware it's not a family Campground and if mr. River tells you something you should do it he's the only one that has your interest at heart. My recommendation is never stay at many islands Campground.!! Thank you!!!!!!. mr. River whatever your name really is.

Shhhh, its my favorite and Best fishing place..now stay away
Bring your boat or go to the various parks and fish from the banks...

Went to spring river with my best friend, my daughter, and her friend. We rented a raft from many islands. Left out behind the dj raft but soon caught up. Had a blast! Cannot wait to go again. Only suggestion is to rent a raft from spring river oaks because many islands take out is past where we were ready to get off the river.

On this river men have beads for women that will show their breasts. We saw many breasts. It was like Bourbon Street on a river. So many drunk, crazy and obnoxious people on this river. This river is not for familes and I will never return which is sad because the scenery is beautiful and the rapids are pretty decent.

I have been a long time patron of Many Islands and do expect a young party crowd to be there how ever my recent visit was the worst and last. The neighboring campsite's party lasted well into the wee morning hours only to be quieted by the multiple visits from sheriffs department complete with arrests. Good thing I was on the "Family" side. The response from staff was "its a holiday week-end" and made no compensation for the fact that I used only 1 of the 2 night I paid for.

Susie and the Southfork crew remain our favorites. Took my son canoeing two years ago (2015), the float from Dam 3 on the Spring to Hardy, and the 12 mile float on the Southfork. Last year we went and got rained out, but Susie & company ensured my son and I had a trip we still talk about. Susie and her husband are kind to a fault. If you want a laid back, worry free trip where the management literally break backs to ensure you enjoy yourself, contact Susie immediately.

My husband and I kayak a lot. My husband fly fishes a lot. The spring river is good for both of these activities. However, we do not like drunken crowds. The last time we went on the weekend, it was a zoo. We had to rescue a guy that tipped in some rapids. He was so intoxicated that I was fearful for his safety . If you canoe, kayak or fish to relax and decompress as we do, go on a week day. Monday through Thursday the river is deserted and you can enjoy the beauty and serenity.

We do a Annual Spring River Float once a year with family and friends. Such a relaxing atmosphere- look forward to it every year. This year we actually stayed at Cherokee Village rented a condo from Southern Pines Reality- loved it- it was on Lake Thunderbird with a dock for the kids. But still closed enought to float down spring river as usual.

I go to Spring River atleast 6 times a summer. the water is freezing but it is so worth it. it gets warm outside which makes the water alright. every morning when you wake up its chilly but in the good way..when you look across the river is the most beautiful thing you have ever seen. it is a very soothing sound to go to sleep to. and yea people do party there..and some women do show their [----]. but its not like your kids arent going to be exposed to that at some point in your life..and its not something that your going to be seeing every second your there..its only every once in a while.so EVERYONE GO TO SPRING RIVER IT IS A MAGNIFICENT PLACE TO GO.i love it

My wife and I travel to the Spring river every year since moving to Arkansas in 2001. Yes there are times when the kids get rowdy, usually during spring break, but most of the time it is a quiet place to go and fish or just relax. Riverside campground is a small place, but very nice, clean cabins.

Loved it and always have. One of favorite places to be.. Kids always have a great time and adults do too.

We were geo caching in the area and one is on an island across from campground. We asked the check in about it and the lady was very rude. On a Sunday afternoon for not even an hour access to cross the river it was $6 per person. We had 6 adults and 3 kids. Not even an hour was going to cost us almost $100 for access to an island. To grab a cache sign the paper and leave. We asked if there was another access close we could use and of course the money hungry woman rolled her eyes and said nope. We will find another access point when we can get back to that area but will never do business with mini islands. Oh and we had our own canoe. I would have paid $5 for each car but not per person

Spring River and Hardy Arkansas are classic American fun without any commercialization. The river has plenty of Rapids. I am an expert swimmer and wear my life jacket. It's too dangerous for children. That aside, if you are grown up and want an adventure with friendly people this is your venue. There is good trout-fly fishing- passed many fishers on our float downstream today-most had caught plenty of fish. The campgrounds were full of college aged people who were loud and drunk, friendly-everyone I met offered me a drink or beer. The float is enjoyable and challenging. We got off the river and enjoyed the small town of Hardy. It has a quaint Main Street with a few good restaurants and shops. Nothing too fancy-Hardy has not been sterilized for tourists. The place thrives and has an energy of its own which makes it a very cool experience.

We stay at riverside resort every year for the past 8 years or so. We've been told to "keep quite" one time that I know, and no one has ever been snooping around or sneaking up on us. The people are friendly and by now know us by name and treat us just fine. I would recommend anyone with kids to stay here as well, its a very kid friendly place. we would never stay anywhere else,

Loved it we had so much fun but of course it is a adult/teens only kinda atmosphere but other than that me and my friends had a blast we got buzzed had fun and partyed so so much fun but we did go on a memorial day weekend And we're going again this fourth of July and labor day weekend those are the crazyest weekends their could possibly be

This is our second year going to the Spring River Resort in November. The trout fishing is excellent! We caught our limit very quickly and it was exciting and fun! I recommend taking waders and of course, a light weight rod set up for trout. You will also need an Arkansas fishing license with a trout stamp which you can get online. ($23 total for a non resident 3 day license)
We stay in our RV but many of our friends that go sleep in tents. There are also cabins for rent.
There is a store with a friendly staff who will help you book canoeing trips and assist you in any way they can.
We meet up with a large group (around 20 people) and have a party around the campfire, potluck dinner, music, drinks and we've never had any problems or noise complaints. I think that it's more of a rowdy scene in the summer when there's a younger crowd.
If you're looking for beautiful scenery, excellent fishing and a fun place to meet up with friends for a weekend, Spring River Resort is a wonderful choice!

We went to Spring River to go canoeing this weekend with the kids. We had a ball!! We stayed at South Fork Resort. They were the nicest people! Their prices were reasonable. Shelly and Josh are the owners. Shelly is a very direct person. Do what she says and everyone will have a good time. She doesn't put up with no BS. This is the perfect place to bring the kids. After 10:30 they like to keep the noise down to a minimum. If there is a problem with some other camper all you have to do is give her a call and she will nip it in the bud. Her husband Josh is a really nice guy. He drove us to our drop off and was our pick up. They are very understanding people that are easy to get along with. If you are late arriving at the end point by 10 minutes of so it is cool but not 2 hours late.

The bathrooms were clean!! Campground was clean!!

Oh!!! And there is NO TRAIN NOISE to keep you awake or scare the crap out of you in the middle of the night.

We are already planning a trip back in September!!

We make a trip to Spring River every year. (sometimes twice a year) I am getting ready for my trip back there in just 2 weeks. I LOVE this place. The water, the scenery, the fishing, conoeing... it's so awesome... and I mean the word awesome in the way that it is truely magnificent.
I have been during spring break, also 4th of July, and Memorial day, and yes, it is hectic and even crazy at times with all the college age kids on the loose. However, I have never encountered anyone who was dangerous, or even truely mean. Drunk, YES. And, there have been many beads thrown to people (both male and female) willing to show their breasts.
However, all that is neccessary is some common sense. If you dont like that atmosphere, dont go on holidays.( I have also been on "slow" weekends. During those times it's quiet, peaceful and totally relaxing.) Also, keep in mind that there is a possibility of theft anywhere you go. So... dont leave valuables at your campsite. Lock them in your car. Dont leave your coolers, chairs,etc... out in the open while you float downriver, put them in your tent and zip it up. (this will even keep flies out of your tent while your gone LOL) You can even buy locks for the tent at Wal-Mart or even the Dollar Store. When floating downriver... dont leave your conoe or raft unattended, thats an invitation for someone to rip you of all your drinks, food, etc... Like I said ya'll common sense.
I have teenage sons (15 & 13) and I truely believe they would lose their minds if we didn't go every year. And it's not because of the parties... they love the place itself just as my husband and I do. They learned to swim, fish and conoe there. They forget the phones, games, cars, or anything else while we're there.
As for the restrooms and showers. Yes, it is nasty when theres a holiday or during spring break. But, how can you keep hot water when you have 2000 or more folks camped on one site?
Now. My view of Spring River is from Many Islands. It's the only place I stay when I go. I plan my trip based on what I want from the trip. If I want a party atmsphere, I get it. If I want a calm relaxing week away from it all, I can get that to. Just use your head. And... Enjoy the beauty of this place.

Southfork Resort was great. The staff and owners were awesome. We had an amazing time. The float trips were great, as well. I cannot wait to go back. I will go at least once a year from now on!

We typically have a group of 10 to 20 people each year. We always float with Many Islands and we have always had a good time but the river is dangerous and it is unforgiving. If you don't know what you are doing, get a raft and make it a safe journey. Canoes will hurt you when the water is high and some of the waterfalls and turns are quite scary. I have read other reviews where they bashed Many Islands for your canoe flips and injuries. This is all on you and they are not responsible for that. They will go get you but there is a fee. You sign that form when you rent the canoe and other paperwork. They are not responsible for your mishaps on the river so enjoy the river and be careful. Have a back up plan in case you are injured but don't depend on Many Islands to jump and run when you have an issue.
They do charge a 100.00 deposit that they explain to you when you rent the rafts and if you do not make it back in time to get your deposit they will not come running back to open up again and let you have your deposit back that evening so pay attention to where you are on the river and get back in a timely manner to get your deposit.
They are a company there to give you want you need to float and a place to park. They are not a first aid station and they are not 911.
Have fun, enjoy the river, take out what you take in and leave the river just as you found it for our kids and their kids to come.
It is a great river to float. Love it.

I've been going to Spring River, on and off since the early 90's as a teen. Using Spring River Valley Camp was by far the worst experince I ever had. They make sound good and feed you a ton of lip service over the phone. He made it sound like a good Christian ran place, I don't need anymore of that religion. My family and I rented 4 tubes, 3 of them were flat by time we got shuttled to the drop off point. We waited just over an hour for replacements. The 4th one started tearing at the seems, then went flat. Rocky acted like it was our fault, when it was clearly the cheap tubes coming apart at the seams. There were two parties that were stranded that day. One of the parties decided to sit on the side of the river waiting to be picked up. They were maybe 2 hours into a 7 hour trip. The place is ran down as well as the equipment. Don't let them lure you in! There's are other places that are much better.

We have been to Riverside Resorts for 5 days camping over the last 4 years in June.We have never had an issue with the security, in fact they are actually quit helpful in keeping the rowdy,drunk and fighting crowds out of the campground. If you are looking for a campground that is more family friendly this is the one. Everyone has been very nice and accommodating on our trips, from the check-in to the ladies that run the store. the showers and bathrooms are cleaned daily,the litter and trash in the camping area is picked up daily. I would not stay anywhere else on my trip to spring river. If you are looking for spotless and immaculate,you may need to stay at a Holiday Inn or something else, this is camping...

We went for this memorial day weekend for our vacation because we wanted to see mammoth springs. Checked into Many Islands Campground because it was beautiful. The problem with it is if you do not want to party for days straight with barely legal drinking kids it sucks. Loud music, cars, and kids all day and all night. To make matters worse they have no respect and trash the campground and bathrooms. Also they helped there self's to some of our belongings. Will never go back to this campground.

Bathrooms are horrible! No access to river from campsite. To get into water you have to drive to entry. Tent cabins are horrible... The one my family rented had a inch crack in the top of the door & was also infested with red wasp!

Spring river is a very awsome place to go and float. It is a party place for sure but
thats why we go. I have been going for 20 years now and still love it. This year was our second time to stay at Riverside Camp and there were 20 GAME AND FISH officials everywhere giving out tickets on Riverside "PRIVATE PROPERTY". I will never go back there to camp again. If there wanting to be like all the big boys they need to not let the officials just walk onto their property and run everyone off.
The Port of Johns were well.........Port a Johns from Hell. It doesn't take that much to get some service on Private Property if your paying them to do a job.
They were to expensive they did treat you like cattle and the 3 women showers to service a whole camp ground had water pressure in one stall at a time.

DON'T STAY AT RIVERSIDE CAMP !!!!!!!!

Many Islands has the best people and accomadations. The main showers at the store are cleaner and I don't mind paying for some pressure. I don't want to hug a shower wall just to get a drizzle of water.

We spent the wekend at this facility with our family and had a very good time. Although it offers only the basics for camping, the staff was very friendly and accommodating. All of the equipment we rented performed as required and everything went as close to schedule as could be expected for this type of activity.

Family floaters on the summer weekends be on the water by 9am. Enjoy the river with the fisherman that will step out as soon as the conoe wave starts.
Im just below the first shoal after put in. The early crowd are very respectful to our property. I enjoy visiting with them as their kids play and fish from my bank.
Then some people that dont know how to act start showing up. Just a few of them, their easy to spot and easy to hear. Walk up and piss on your trees. Pitch their cans and bottles on your bank. And so on.
If you cant go early, about 4 pm the respectful laid back inner tube crowd starts their floats. Thats more family friendly.

I was very disappointed in Many Islands campgrounds. My boyfriend and I and a few friends stayed there over the 4th of July. I had been to Spring River before, but had never stayed at Many Islands. I recommend floating down the river, but find a different campsite. We paid $11 per person for each night and then we had to pay for FREEZING cold showers and the bathrooms were so disgusting I could not even use them. Also, while we were going down the river, our cooler full of food and drinks was stolen. We talked to one of the "security guards" who was very rude and told me that this happens at every campsite. My boyfriends cousin was also staying at Many Islands and all of his belongings were stolen including cell phone, clothes, coolers, wallet, etc. I will never stay at Many Islands again.

I have been going to Many Islands Canoe Rentals for 20 years, and after last saturday, I will never give them my loyal business again. Treated horribly, they are money hungry and only care about getting your money.

We've been to the spring river every year for the last 15 and most of the time stayed at Riverside Resort. It is a clean campground right on the river. If you want to fish, you can camp directly on the river. You can always catch fish here. There are Bald Eagles along the river as well as deer that roam the property.

They rent canoes and have a good crew to drop you off and pu.

It is close to the railroad tracks so you have to get used to the train noise at night.

This year we rented one of the 1 br cabins with a kitchen because it was going to be cold (25 deg) in late November and that is too cold for a tent. The cabins are nice, nothing fancy but clean and even had Dish Network for the TV. Only problem is there is no fire ring outside the 1 br cabins! They advertise having one on the web page but then have a sign up that says no fires allowed. We had to walk down to the small one room cabins to make a fire.

We have been here in the spring and fall, never in the summer. I'm sure it is very different then because they have a lot ot tent and RV camping spaces and only 2 bath houses. We prefer the spring and fall to avoid the bugs, heat and crowds. This is a beautiful camping and fishing destination.

I have been going to Spring River since I was a kid. Last minute I decided to take 3 of my friends and head off to the river for the weekend. I decided to try out Southfork since I had never been before and it seemed pretty fun on their website. I printed off the directions to Southfork off their website, and of course being used to using a gps in my spoiled age and not getting to use it we got lost. I called the resort office around 10:30 pm that Friday night and left a message. Not even 5 minutes later Mama Susie called me back. I told her we were lost and she told me to hold on a second while she went and grabbed a map. Mama Susie then told us where to go, and how far we were. I was in shock at how amazingly nice and patient she was with us. Saturday morning we woke up to get ready to hit the river. I walked into the office to sign the liability form, and sitting at the counter was Shelly. This is the coolest woman I have ever come across in my life. She was busy as all get out, and was still doing everything she could to help everyone at once. A family she was helping before us got there late and had rented a raft. Rafts are suppose to leave at 8:00 a.m. because they take longer. I was so surprised to see that Shelly told the woman to just relax and breathe and that they could take their raft out with the canoes at 10:00 a.m. Of course she asked her husband Josh first, and he was fine with it. To be so early in the morning I kid you not Shelly and Josh could run that place with their eyes closed. As a gay man from the city going to places like this make me a little nervous, and as soon as I met Shelly all of that nervousness went out the window. She is super sweet and can make you laugh in your worst situation. Josh (her husband) is just as funny. After our float trip we got to hang and talk to him for a few minutes and he was a super awesome guy. Mama Susie (Shelly's mother) came and checked up on my group after our trip, once again I was so surprised she remembered my name and where I was staying. All in all Southfork Resort is a great place to stay for families and friends, and all people except for disrespectful ones. I cannot wait to go back, and recommend this place over all others for Spring River. As long as the Govar family are running that place, I will keep coming back. A big part of a trip is the people you meet, and I can't wait to see them again! A big thanks to Mama Susie Shelly & Josh for making our weekend out of the city SPECTACULAR !!! Most places (many islands) are in it for the money, but Southfork is in it for the fun. That family worked their butts off all weekend, and I highly respect the Govar family for that.

My wife and I used Southfork Resort for a 10 mile canoe trip.

When we made our reservations on the phone, the lady who took our call was fabulous! She was polite, interested in us as people and worked hard to make sure we got the date we asked for. It was a real pleasure each time we talked to her.

This place is in the middle of nowhere, but we found it without any problems. My first impression of the place was Uh-Oh! because of the amount of garbage bags and trash piled around the dumpster. The "store" wasn't stocked very well, especially with snacks and drinks, but they are very friendly and worked hard to make sure we had everything we needed before we started our float trip - even giving us bottled water for our really hot day.

The canoeing was awesome, relaxing, challenging and fun! The only thing I wish we had that wasn't offered was a map of the river - showing important landmarks and the pick-up point. It was a little difficult to find the "call in" point, but we ended up at the right place at the right time.

These guys work hard to make sure your trip is great! I would definitely do it again if I came back to this area!

You should come to the Spring River and stay at Many Islands for the best time you can have at the river

The staff at Many Islands are VERY unfriendly! We plan a canoe trip every year including four families. We were passing through the area and went out of our way to go by and check out the facilities there. Before we could enter the driveway to their office we were stopped by a very rude woman asking for $6 a person to pass. There were 4 of us in the vehicle. My son-in-law was driving and explained that we didn't want to use anything and all we wanted was a price list and to ask a few questions about what they have to offer. She refused to let us pass without handing over $24! We decided to call their office to explain. We ended up being allowed to come in only to be greeted by a very unfriendly man who was rude and never saw a smile from anyone there. I asked about some water shoes hanging in the window and he replied, "I have them all right here under this counter!" Not one comment about "Would you like to see a pair?" or "Could I help you with your size?" They appeared to be just what I had been looking for but I wouldn't have spent one dime in that rude, money hungry place!! We will definitely not be using them next year or ever for that matter!!

Just a terrible experience all together. When we got there on Friday night June 28, the elderly man who registered us in was very friendly and very helpful an informative. On Saturday when we got up to go register to tube the man loading the shuttle buses was very rude towards us an had a ride smart ass come back to any question we had. And that was a all day thing that Saturday with him. Then Sunday when we went to go register to raft the same rude man tells us for five people it was gonna be $100 deposit $115 cause you pay person not per raft which is stupid an that they need a bank card on file. He was so rude about it that we just walked out an went into Hardy Arkansas to River Wilderness Sports and had a much better experience! They were super friendly an not too surprised that we had had issues over on Many Islands. Definitely planning to go back for more vacations but we won't be staying over on Many Islands again. Your overcharging people for nature the least you could do is hire a more friendly staff.

Floated the Spring river-Great float, with a Mardi Gras party atmosphere all the way(do not suggest bringing children as you will be covering their eyes and ears alot!) Really loved this river!
Many Islands, however, was a rip off! We were staying in a hotel in hardy, but rented raft from many islands. Our group was told there was no specific take out time, as we pulled in they would load us up and take us to our hotel. When we got to many islands and I went in to retrieve my ID and $100 deposit, they gave me $75 and told me there was a $25 charge for being late. Then asked if I had a cell because I would need to call someone from our group at the hotel to come pick us up.
We will float this river again, but we'll never give Many Islands another dime.

Tent cabins are horrible. Door wouldnt work right, no good access to water unless you go down to the beach area! Bathrooms were just straight up NASTY!!

I would give this place less if I could. The only advantage it has is, the place is pretty and well maintained. It's also on a FANTASTIC river. Other than that, it is by far the WORST place I have ever stayed. $8 per person, per night. Not per campsite, not per vehicle, per person. $8 per night if you want power. $8 per night if you want firewood. They will NOT shuttle YOUR canoe or kayak upstream to the start of the float. They will go with you and drive your vehicle back to the campground..........for $25. If you use your own canoe or kayak there is a $5 fee if you take out at Many Islands. $5 each. If you want a shower, you can have one. The shower head is a galvanized pipe cap with 6 or 8 holes drilled in it. The water comes out with the force of a pressure washer, but don't worry, it's not hot. Oh, by the way, it's $1 for 6 minutes of a painful, cold shower. We complained to the "security guard." He drove over to the shower and returned a few minutes later. He said you should have hot water now. I put $2 in just to see if it would ever get hot. Nope. If you are there on a weeknight, don't plan on getting much sleep. The railroad is only about 50 feet from the campground. On a weeknight the trains come through every 5 minutes to one hour all night long, and I'm not exaggerating. I timed it. Of course, the trains are required by law to blow their horns at each crossing.....including the gravel road that goes into the campground. Saturday and Sunday nights there are only 2 trains after about 10:45 PM. On our last morning there.....the VERY last.....the "security guard" drove up, walked over and said, "Are you all paid up?" Not, good morning. Not, nice day. Not, how are you doing? Not, do you need anything? He didn't even introduce himself as the "security guard." If he hadn't been so unfriendly we would have had no idea who he was. Thank God we were all paid up. I hate to think how he would have acted if we still owed these leaches money.

In short, if you don't mind being dollared to death, annoyed by very loud freight trains all night, and being treated like an inconvenience to the management and employees, this is a wonderful place to stay. Otherwise, do yourself a favor and stay far, far, FAR away from this hole.

Many Islands is a great place to camp and spend time on the Spring River. Our family stayed in their cabins which were right on the river and great. Nice place to get in the water and just play around or hang out on tubes. Kid friendly, good fishing, free firewood, great people.

My friends and I went to Southfork Resort to camp and float down the river, and even though we were put in the river an hour late, we were all charged $20.00 each for a late pick up fee. They also charged us for "taking" their flea bitten nasty pillows that we literally never dared to touch. They trumped up all kinds of extra charges, and even had the nerve to call me on my way home AFTER we checked out and told me they were charging my card another 100 dollars for breaking a plastic Fred's picnic chair that we never even saw. I assure you, we go to Spring River every year, and have never, and since never had a single problem. If you want a hassle free, clean and nice place to stay, go to Riverside Resort. They are really nice, it's a professional establishment, it has a great store, and the perfect place to camp, and or stay in cabins.

My husband and I stayed at Southfork Resort for a long weekend at the end of August, and we have decided that we will never stay anywhere else! The resort is right on the South Fork, and the little cabin we stayed in was cozy and comfortable. The resort was so calm, peaceful and quiet - it was pure joy to wake up each morning and go outside on the deck and listen to the sound of the South Fork!

Upon making our reservations the lady I spoke with was very helpful in recommending what would be best for us as far as what cabin we would rent and how we would get down the Spring River. She and the rest of the staff were very courteous, friendly, and knowledgeable of the rivers (which was important to me since I was a little nervous about our float trip). There were NO surprise charges like you see in some places.

We took the ten mile trip, which took from 8 in the morning until about 4:30 or 5 in the afternoon, and it was a fun trip with a tough, comfortable raft. The takeout is further down than other outfitters, so during the last part of the trip all of the resort's guests were together with no one else, and we were able to make some cool new friends, which we grilled with after we got back to the resort.

If you're a little older but still love floating the Spring River, South Fork Resort is the place to go. Can't wait to go back!

Very pleased that we selected this campground. Google map took me to the wrong location. I had to backtrack to get signal to call campground. Night security stayed on phone to get me to campground. Gentleman was very helpful and friendly. We arrived about 11pm on a Thursday eve. Glad we arrived then because Friday mid afternoon it filled up quick. We used both restrooms. Porta Potty house was nasty by cabins/tent area but other bathrooms were clean for the purpose. Everyone was friendly. This was a mom and teenage son tent camping trip. General store had most things. Rules are inforced and greatly appreciative. Gravel road to campground was a little bummer but did not ruin trip. Met up with some fellow campers and did the Saturday float trip. NOT approapriate for younger kids. That did not bother us. Trout fishing was good for us. Staff kept place well kept and clean except for the twice used porta potty. They did have canoes, rafts, kayaks. Have to reserve rafts. Weekends with groups - dont wait till last min or you won't get one. Scenary was BEAUTIFUL. Overall - super glad we stayed even tho scattered rain was a damper on a couple days. We will come back!

We were tent camping with our entire family, as we do every year. (Please keep in mind that we tent camp several times every summer so "roughing it" isn't an issue.) The entire trip was a disaster! This camp was overpriced and poorly managed. We didn't even have a picnic table at our site. When I mentioned to the manager that I felt like I had been overcharged, she responded with "we are not a state park and we aren't subsidized". If they were subsidized maybe that could afford picnic tables!
We were treated like cattle, "give us your money then move along". After they get your money they don't care about your stay. Too much underage drinking and parting!

Every year the family has a big reunion in Mammoth Spring, Arkansas. When I was a kid we would take a float trip in canoes on the Spring River and always had fun. This year my cousins and I decided to make a trip with our families and expected to have a good time. The river was running a little fast due to recent rains and we didn't think anything about it. My girlfriend and I had a canoe to ourselves and both are somewhat experienced with float trips. We chose Many Islands and rented four canoes at $45 a piece and were told it was a four hour trip. As I stated the river was running a little fast and we ended up a mile from the exit point right at two hours into the trip. My girlfriend and I turned over at one point and she lost her paddle. No biggie, we pulled the boat to the bank, emptied out the water, licked our wounds, and moved on. At the next set of rapids we were pinned up against a rock and turned over again. This time my girlfriend was banged up pretty bad. I had to let go of the boat and drag her to an island. Both of her knees were bruised, swollen, and bleeding. She couldn't stand without help. My cousin and his wife were thankfully behind us and were able to walk their boat to us to retrieve her and get her to the bank. We were at Spring River Oaks and he people there were wonderful. Someone pulled our boat out and made sure we were OK. Another person showed up with an ice pack and a towel and kept my girlfriend calm. They called ahead to Many Islands to let them know we needed a ride back to their camp. They radioed back "No problem". Ten minutes later a staff member from Spring River Oaks came over and said that Many Islands wanted $25 to come get us. I was irritated but said OK. Another ten minutes goes back and the same guy comes back and says that Many Islands wants $25 per boat as my cousin and his wife decided to stay with us. At this point it's not like I had much of a choice. So an hour after making the call they finally show up, load up us and the boats, and get us back to Many Islands where they do in fact charge me the $50 despite my girlfriend being injured and unable to complete the trip. Completely unprofessional and absolutely no customer support. The staff at Spring River Oaks had stated that the river was running far too fast for canoes and were only renting rafts at that time. This would have been handy information to have from Many Islands. Do yourself a favor and steer away from Many Islands. There are so many other places to rent boats from.

I was expecting a lovely outdoorsy experience, but instead faced PCB Spring Break on the river. The river was challenging and fun, but the drunk college kids and grown people were quite a distraction from the beautiful surroundings. Of course we did go on a Summer Saturday, but I was just not quite prepared.

We have floated this river each year for about 25 years on weekends. It never ceases to amaze me that we will see those lonely families floating along with a raft full of children 6-10 years old and they are highly upset at the ADULT atmosphere of the river. While personally, it is not something that I have ever done or will ever do, there are the ADULTS that decide that their swimwear is too heavy or too hot and they remove it. Well, needless to say, we have seen it all on that river and laugh all the way home about the adventure. I read through the reviews as how terrible Spring River is and full of drunks but they are ADULTS and they are enjoying the COLD water, cold adult beverages and the beautiful scenery along with usually a very large group of friends as we do. The rapids are fantastic and change every year so this makes them a little dangerous especially if you over indulge in the adult beverages and there have been many people injured and even some have lost their lives on this river. As with any body of water, you must respect the river, follow the rules and have someone sober and in charge of your group to keep an eye on everything so the trip is enjoyable and runs smoothly. Families who bring their young children on this river on the weekends, especially Labor Day weekend should expect that they will NOT enjoy the trip so plan it for another time. During the week, the river crowd is much calmer so maybe that would be a better choice to bring the family. Things to remember, don't bring anything on this river that you can not afford to lose which includes cell phones, vehicle keys and wallets. Remember that there is a NO GLASS law and the Game and Fish are there constantly enforcing that law for all of our safety. Enjoy the river and take your trash with you-- lol. That may include your naked friends by the end of the float trip! :)

I get a kick out of the bad reviews when it regards people's personal boats. I see the park offers float trips, so they are not in the business of hauling private party equipment. If you want to get drunk on the river, have a DD to pick up your stuff!! I wouldn't ever haul someone's boats, I can see a boat getting damaged coming down river, and a drunk person starting crap with the park because their boat "wasn't damaged before float trip" .

Went with my friend, my daughter, and two of her friends. Met up with DJ Supermoon shortly after getting on the river. Love to float this river. Rented the raft from spring river oaks this year. Learned last year that many islands was just too far to float back to and we loved the float to spring river oaks this year. Can't wait to do it again!

We stayed at the Many Islands camp over the Memorial Day weekend. The facilities were HORRIBLE. We had a group of about 30 that all stayed in tents. We had a great time on the river and I highly recommend doing a float trip with a big group. The only bad thing was the bathrooms. I have never in my life seen anything so disqusting. Firstly, everyone pays $11 a night to camp here. Then to take a shower you have to put quarters in the machine to get FREEZING cold water. I don't think you should have to pay for that. Especially when the accomadations were so bad. There was feces and toilet paper all over the floor in the shower and everywhere in the bathroom. The shower water ran down the floor into the floors of the toilets. ALL of the toilets were stopped up. And this was the cleaner set of bathrooms.
My other complaint was the staff. The security guys cruised around on their golf carts all day and night, but did nothing for us when we needed help. A drunk guy threw a full can of beer at us, almost hitting one of our guys in the back of the head, and it landed on one of our trucks, leaving a scratch. We saw who did it and stopped a security guy to help us. He did nothing...so we never got that guy's insurance information or anything.
I would love to go back to the Spring River for another float trip, but we will not be staying here.

My family and I plan a yearly canoe trip all over and after this year's trip to the Buffalo River (great trip by the way) we went back through the Hardy/Mammoth Springs area to check out trips down the Spring river. We were told to check out Many Islands so we drove out to check prices and see their facility since we were close. When we got there a lady came up to the truck and asked for $6 per person ($24 total) just for us to go get a price list and ask about launches.
I told her we didn't plan to swim or stay we just wanted to check it out for next time. She said NOPE you have to pay. I refused and said no thank you. While on the way back out I looked up the number and called. They said "you shouldn't have to pay to just come get a price sheet" but when we got back they were the rudest Business people we've ever encountered. We will canoe the Spring River, but we WILL NOT use Many Islands.

This place is great for Families ONLY! Not young people wanting to get loud and drunk. This place is for kids to bike, swim, fish, play and make memories. We go here every year and we always have a good time.

If you are looking for place to act stupid, go to Many Islands!

There bathhouses are extremely clean compared to the other campsites around.
Highly recommend for mature families.

We stayed at MIC, and had a great time!! wonderful float trip, and the staff is so friendly. They make your experience a one to remember! great for a family vacation!

The river was beautiful, calm and a little bit warmer than the Spring River. It is true there's no train but, when we arrived two families were fighting. The bathrooms had not been sprayed for bugs. There were a couple of brown recluses in the toilet area. The drains in the showers were stopped up. Additionally the check out time is at noon though they do not tell you that at check in. I will not stay here again.