Strings on the Kings

Strings on the Kings turns the quiet corridor of the Kings River into a four-day bluegrass and camping retreat just outside Eureka Springs. Based at Kings River Outfitters in the Trigger Gap area, you get live music alongside one of the country’s few remaining free-flowing rivers. Plan for mornings on the water and evenings at the main stage, with Ozark ridgelines and limestone bluffs setting the scene.

You come for the community feel as much as the music. Lineups change year to year, but you can typically count on regional favorites like Eureka Strings alongside visiting bluegrass acts. Between sets, you can float the river’s clear pools, join workshops, or take part in art activities, then return to the performance area at sunset for live sets and fire shows.

Handle logistics early. Book floats, shuttles, and rentals through Kings River Outfitters well ahead of time, since demand is high. Bring folding chairs, blankets, and a reusable bottle for the free water stations; pack high-SPF sunscreen and waterproof gear for river time, and add a light rain jacket for quick Ozark showers. If you are camping, arrive early on Thursday for a strong spot in the Eagle’s Roost Campground near the stage. The event is family friendly, with a strict anti-harassment policy and professional security on site.

For on-site convenience, stay in Kings River Outfitters cabins or campgrounds; for more amenities, book a historic hotel or boutique stay in downtown Eureka Springs a short drive away. You can also look for nearby vacation rentals and riverfront homes on Lake.com. Pets are generally welcome, but confirm current-year rules before you arrive; food vendors are usually on site, though many attendees cook at camp. If the river runs too high to float, the festival continues with land-based music and activities.