Keep it in the family

This summer, explore with the best in the business.

By Riley Hope

The only people who truly understand the trials of planning a family vacation are other families. That’s why we’ve put together a list of family-owned businesses that are ready and excited to take the stress off your shoulders — so all you have to do is pack your bags! Whether you’re looking to explore the outdoors or simply kick back and relax, these trusted businesses, with a combined 64 years of experience, are here to make your getaway as seamless and enjoyable as possible. Best of all, they share your love for Arkansas and are eager to help you experience the very best it has to offer. Let’s dive in!

Rileys Outfitter – Mountain home

In a state full of natural sights and outdoor adventures, it can be hard to figure out where to start. That’s where Rileys Outfitter comes in. Situated in the lush green valleys of the Ozark Mountains alongside the wide White River, this family-owned business is more than happy to get you set on the right track. Their goal is simple: to showcase what a hidden gem the area is and to be there for your family for generations to come.

Of course, the Riley family isn’t an exception to the close-knit, hands-on approach that defines many small businesses. The whole reason they started Rileys Outfitter back in 1998 was to pursue a lifestyle that allowed them to spend more time with their children. Over the years, all seven of their kids have played a role in supporting the business. While some have since taken other paths, they still lend a hand whenever they can. Now, a few of their children are preparing to take the reins themselves, giving their parents the chance to finally step back. Miles Riley, co-owner and father to the next generation of outfitters, jokes that after all his hard work, he’s looking forward to partying while his kids try organizing the business for a change. One of their sons, now 28, is eager to take over so his parents can rest, while their daughter, just 18, has already been working as a fishing guide since she was 13. For Miles, that’s what keeps him going — the promise that his children will always have something to fall back on. To him, the business is more than a livelihood; it’s a generational gift meant to be passed down.

But it isn’t just his own family that Miles cares about — it’s also the families of everyone who has ever walked through their front doors. One of the best parts of his job is getting to be a part of lifelong memories made on the waters of the White River. Because the Riley family lives on-site, they’re able to put in more time and effort than you might expect from a business as successful as Rileys Outfitter. This extraordinary dedication has created a revolving door of repeat patrons. Some guests have even gone so far as to name their pets or children after members of the Riley family.

Whether you’re learning to fish for the first time or just want to relax on a kayak while soaking in the valley’s beauty Rileys Outfitter has you covered. What stands out most is their devotion to not just safety, but also skill. With the patience of saints, Miles and his family will teach you to gut and clean your fish and show your children how to rig a line so it won’t snap. And when the day winds down, they offer over 10 cozy lodging options for a good night’s rest.

Like many who call the White/Buffalo River region home, the Rileys care deeply about conservation. They’ve adopted and cleaned a local stretch of highway, support eco-initiatives and follow “pack in, pack out” rules to protect their river. To them, home extends far beyond their own front porch.

Gaston’s White River Resort – Lakeview

When you talk about building from the ground up, the first thing you should think about is Gaston’s White River Resort. In 1958, Al Gaston saw the potential in the endless landscape that is the Ozark Mountains where it ran alongside the rushing White River and purchased 20 acres of riverfront property. The only thing on the property were six small cabins and cottages and six boats. The rest, as they say, is history.

Today, the resort — which is now under the care of Al’s grandson Clint Gaston — boasts an impressive 79 cabins, 70 boats, a restaurant, a conference center, private club, airstrip, tennis courts, playground, swimming pool, game room, nature trails and a fly-fishing school. Try saying all that three times! With all these new additions, it’s no shock that the property now spans over 400 acres. The airstrip itself is 3,200 feet! And anyone is welcome to use it, not just people staying at the resort.

Despite all the changes that the resort has seen over the years, it still continues to draw repeat customers. Nothing beats the friendly reception one receives from calling the resort to ask questions or book their next adventure. The Gaston’s experience is one of pleasantries and camaraderie. You are welcomed into the family like one of their own almost immediately. Their  arms and hearts are open to the public. They welcome anyone who is curious about The Natural State and all it has to offer.

Besides being the best place to catch some of the most abundant trout in the state, the resort is also a place of preservation, a notion that Al Gaston held in high regard when he began his business. The three nature trails available on the property are so peaceful that birds of all species can be spotted lounging in the trees. The nearby Bull Shoals-White River State Park even sends over a park ranger to lead people on bird-watching programs. And, of course, the Gaston family does everything they can in order to preserve the beauty of their property, not just for themselves but for the people who come from all over in order to enjoy the undeniable beauty of our state.

Clint Gaston and his wife, Nicole, have children of their own and understand the complexities of working and childcare. They make sure that their business is equipped to help all the moms and dads out there relax on  their vacation. They’re excited to be part of big moments like young souls learning to fish for the first time, or witnessing the unrestrained delight of the wild outdoors. They’re also happy to provide the game room to children who may not be super into bugs and birds. Whatever your needs are, the Gaston’s White River Resort is prepared to meet them with outstanding service.

Did You Know?

The White River, originating in the Boston Mountains and eventually emptying in the Mississippi River, has long been a vital part of Arkansas’s history. Serving as a critical transportation route for Native Americans and early European settlers, it is now preserved as the expansive White River National Wildlife Refuge.

Crockett’s Canoe Rental – Harriet

Among rolling green hills and crystal-clear creeks, the Buffalo River Valley is home to a handful of float services, but one stands above the others for one reason: their dedication to the community. From its creation in 1992, Crockett’s Canoe Rental has prided itself on putting in the extra effort to give its customers the best possible service. It makes no difference to them whether that means finding a cooler for someone who needs it, making suggestions for food or keeping their prices affordable in the face of rising inflation.

After facing a fire in 2017 that took the business they had worked so hard for, they took a step back and decided to scale back their services in order to allow more time with their children, who are now both in their teens and help out when they can find the time. Following a long and arduous journey to rebuild, today they focus on family and fun. From kayaks to canoes, they guarantee the best experience, and though the general store is gone, the cozy office still stocks essentials for new and experienced floaters alike.

Most importantly, the Crockett family takes to heart the care of their home on the Buffalo River. Each Crockett vessel is equipped with a mesh trash bag, which they dispose of once your float is complete. Amanda Crockett, Creed’s wife and partner in crime, does seminars on pack in and pack out — a motto that encourages patrons to leave no trace of their presence on the lush green landscape that is the Buffalo River. Even Amanda’s suntan oil is eco-friendly.

When you arrive on the day of your float, you’re greeted the minute you come through the door, no matter how busy they may be. The paperwork and payment process is painless, and after that, you are on your way to the rendezvous point for pick-up, for which the Crocketts have no problem drawing a map for directions. At Dillard’s Ferry Bridge, you’ll be picked up in a bus or the family’s brand-new Suburban — purchased recently to assist with the increase in demand during the summer months — depending on how many people are floating that day. We had the pleasure of riding in the Suburban and enjoyed a conversation with Creed during the 15-odd-minute drive to the put-in area at Spring Creek for our half-day float.

Then, at the end of your trip, as you beach your kayaks, the best part happens: Whichever member of the Crockett team is there to collect the boats is sure to thank you for floating with them today. They make a point of wishing you a good day, they stop to chat with you. They welcome you to the surrounding community, encourage you to explore the Arkansas countryside and experience all it offers. Their connection to the land is infectious.

Beyond that, the next time you call to make a reservation — which you will absolutely want to do — the Crockett family will remember you. The minute you walk through the door, you are a part of their ever-growing family. They may have started out as a family of four, but because of their dedication and attention to detail, they now extend all over the state.

Rocky Top Falls – Fairfield Bay

If chasing waterfalls is your thing, then you might want to give Rocky Top Falls a chance this summer. Nestled among winding mountain roads, just past some of the greenest pastures on Earth and overlooking the sparkling Greers Ferry Lake, you might just find the perfect place to say your “I do’s.” But even if you’re not quite ready for that step, you can still find peace unlike any other while soaking in the immense beauty that is our Natural State.

What began as a private family sanctuary quickly became something the Alvarez family felt was too special not to share. After moving from Florida in 2021, Miguel, his wife, Rachel, and their two young children were overwhelmed by the tranquility of the Ozark Mountains and the lake that their new home overlooked. So, without further ado, the family home became an Airbnb.

It’s easy to see the appeal of staying at Rocky Top Falls. As you turn onto the dirt road leading to the house, you’re greeted by the shimmering lake, catching the sunlight before you even reach the driveway. On a good day, with the windows down, you can hear the rush of the waterfall located less than a five-minute walk from the house. The 10-acre property offers access to both this stunning waterfall and the lake itself. They’ve even got kayaks you can borrow to do a little extra exploring. The home is fully equipped to handle up to 14 guests at a time and is wonderfully up-to-date. There’s a spacious back deck for dining under the wide-open sky and, of course, a jacuzzi to pass the time.

The overlook is arguably the closest thing to flying a person can get. With a 180-degree view of the lake, you’ll forget that city life even exists. That escape is made even more complete thanks to the fact that the only other house on the road isn’t inhabited year-round.

If you thought it couldn’t get any better, you’d be wrong. In 2024, the Alvarez family realized they could share their space in an even more meaningful way by converting the property into a wedding venue. From April onward, they’ve poured their hearts into creating a location any Arkansan would adore. From renovating their garage into a skylight dining room for bridal parties to building a cedar altar and benches by hand, their work speaks for itself.

More than anything, Miguel and Rachel remember every face they meet. At each open house, they’re shaking hands, learning names and offering thoughtful recommendations for anything a frazzled bride might need. You can feel their gratitude for everyone who has supported their dream. Though they may not be Arkansas natives, they’ve fully embraced the warmth and hospitality the state is known for — and they’re sure to be a part of the local community for years to come.

We hope you’re ready to get out there and make the most of your summer with the help of these incredible local businesses and community members. Whether you’re looking to explore the great outdoors, learn something new or simply relax and soak in the sunshine, these are the perfect places to start your adventure. Not only will you have fun, but you’ll also experience some of the most breathtaking views that Arkansas — The Natural State — has to offer. From winding rivers to scenic trails and peaceful hideaways, these spots promise unforgettable memories. So grab your gear, rally your friends or family and start planning your next outdoor escape today!

Five tips for a seamless family vacation

1. Plan ahead, book early. Always be sure to secure accommodations and activities ahead of time, especially during peak season.

2. Pack smart and light. Make a list of the essentials and get them packed away. Consider versatile clothing and travel-sized toiletries.

3. Snacks and hydration. Having easy-to-grab snacks and refillable water bottles on hand can make travel easier and help avoid meltdowns.

4. Flexibility is key. While planning is great, be prepared for changes or delays while traveling.

5. Unplug and connect. Encourage each other to put away devices and truly make some memories together!