5 Reasons River Ridge Inn is the Best Place to Stay on the Norfork River, Arkansas

Planning a fishing trip to the Norfork River in Arkansas? Whether you’re chasing trophy trout, looking for a peaceful riverside retreat, or planning a family getaway, choosing the right place to stay can make or break your trip. During our recent adventure, we stayed at River Ridge Inn in Norfork, Arkansas, and it turned out to be the perfect basecamp for exploring the river and the surrounding Ozarks.

Here are five reasons you’ll love staying at River Ridge Inn:

1. Private Bathrooms in Every Cabin

River Ridge Inn offers several lodging options, and one of the biggest perks is that every bedroom has its own bathroom. We stayed in the Gardenside Cabin, a spacious three-bedroom cabin with four beds, three bathrooms, a full kitchen, and a comfortable living area. This setup is perfect for families or groups of friends—it feels private and convenient, while still giving you plenty of space to gather together.

2. Unbeatable Location on the Norfork River

When it comes to lodging on the Norfork River, you can’t beat the location of River Ridge Inn. The property sits directly on the river with wade fishing access and a private dock. We floated from the Norfork Dam to the confluence of the White River and literally passed by the Inn on our trip. The shuttle to the put-in was only 20 minutes, which made it super convenient.

Even better, River Ridge Inn is located right in the town of Norfork. You’re just minutes away from great local spots like 1906 Coffee Co., Lazy Enchilada, and Norfork Brewing Co.—so you can fish all day and still enjoy a great meal or craft beer nearby.

3. Comfortable, Pet-Friendly Accommodations

River Ridge Inn is known for its cozy, pet-friendly cabins that are designed with comfort in mind. From plush beds to patios and grills, it’s easy to feel right at home. We loved spending evenings on the deck, grilling out, and walking the property. The peaceful, riverside atmosphere makes it ideal for everything from a quiet couples’ getaway to a family reunion or retreat.

4. World-Class Fishing at Your Doorstep

For anglers, this is the number-one reason to stay at River Ridge Inn. You can fish directly from the dock on the Norfork River, wade right in, or set off on a float trip within minutes. One of my favorite memories was waking up early to watch the fog lift off the river as the sun came up—a magical backdrop for a morning cast.

We also tried night fishing off the dock for brown trout. Even though we didn’t catch one, the cool, misty air (10–15 degrees cooler than the surrounding area) made it an unforgettable experience. If you’re visiting the Ozarks for trout fishing, River Ridge Inn puts you in the middle of the action.

5. On-Site Hospitality That Feels Personal

Another thing that sets River Ridge Inn apart from other Norfork River cabins is the on-site hospitality. With a manager living on the property, you always feel like help is nearby if you need anything. Pair that with thoughtful amenities like grills, patio seating, and gathering spaces, and it creates an environment that’s both welcoming and stress-free.

The Best Lodging on the Norfork River

If you’re looking for the best place to stay in Norfork, Arkansas, River Ridge Inn is more than just lodging; it’s an experience. With riverside access, cozy cabins, and unbeatable proximity to both the water and town, it’s genuinely the perfect basecamp for your Norfork River adventure.

Must-pack item? Your fly rod. The fishing is phenomenal, especially in the early morning hours when the river is at its most beautiful.

Follow your Fernweh - Carrie B