First Rise - Luxury Riverfront Retreat on Wildcat Shoals

Welcome to First Rise, a private Riverfront retreat located directly on Wildcat Shoals, one of the most iconic stretches of trout water on Arkansas’s White River.

Designed for families, friends, and fishing groups, First Rise blends the comfort of a modern river lodge with professionally designed interiors and an exceptional waterfront setting. With 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, two kitchens, two living areas, multiple river-facing decks, and 120 feet of private White River frontage, the home offers space to gather together while still allowing room to spread out.

For anglers, the biggest advantage is simple: you can walk out the back door and be on Wildcat Shoals immediately.

THE WHITE RIVER IS THE MAIN EVENT

At First Rise, the river is not something you visit—it is your backyard.

The home sits directly on the White River at Wildcat Shoals, a legendary stretch known for trout fishing and Ozark beauty. From the decks, you look straight across the river and hear the water moving below.

A custom rock walkway leads to private river frontage, giving guests direct access to the water.

When Bull Shoals Dam generation levels allow, sections in front of the property and around Wildcat Shoals can be wadeable, offering the chance to fish right from the bank. River conditions change frequently, so guests should always check current flows and use caution.

Whether you are here to fish or simply relax, the river defines the experience.

BUILT FOR GROUPS

First Rise spans approximately 3,300 square feet and was designed with groups in mind.

• 4 bedrooms
• 3 full bathrooms
• Two kitchens
• Two living areas
• Multiple riverfront decks
• Private White River frontage
• Direct river access
• Outdoor fire pit

The layout works especially well for families and fishing groups. Three levels allow people to gather together or spread out when needed, making it easy for multiple families or generations to stay comfortably under one roof.

PROFESSIONALLY DESIGNED INTERIORS

The home has been fully renovated and thoughtfully furnished to feel like a true White River retreat.

The design draws from the surrounding Ozarks—warm textures, natural materials, trout-inspired details, and clean modern finishes. The goal was to create a space that feels both elevated and comfortable.

Large gathering areas make it easy to cook, relax, and share time together after a day on the river, while quieter spaces offer room to unwind.

TWO FULL KITCHENS

A standout feature of First Rise is the two-kitchen layout.

The main kitchen serves as the central cooking and gathering space with modern finishes and an open design. The second full kitchen on the lower level is also fully stocked and has a full sized refrigerator, oven, and microwave.

TWO LIVING AREAS

With two separate living rooms, groups can enjoy time together without feeling crowded.

One space can be used for movies, games, or kids, while the other serves as a quieter place to relax or gather. This setup is ideal for multigenerational trips and larger groups.

BEDROOMS & BATHROOMS

The four bedrooms are designed for comfort and flexibility, with thoughtful layouts that work well for couples, families, and fishing groups.

With three full bathrooms, mornings are easy even when the house is full, allowing everyone to get ready for the river or a day in town without congestion.

MULTIPLE RIVERFRONT DECKS

Several decks overlook the White River, offering different places to sit and take in the view.

Start your morning with coffee over the water, watch anglers working the shoals, or unwind in the evening as the sun sets behind the Ozark hills.

The river changes throughout the day, and the decks make it easy to enjoy every moment of it.

PRIVATE RIVER ACCESS

A custom rock walkway leads directly to the river, where guests have access to private frontage.

For anglers, this means the possibility of stepping into one of the most famous trout fisheries in the country right from the property.

For everyone else, it means quiet access to the water without ever getting in the car.

Always check river conditions before entering, as flows can change quickly due to dam generation.

FIRE PIT

The outdoor fire pit is one of the best places to end the day.

Gather around the fire, cook s’mores, share fishing stories, or simply enjoy the sound of the river at night. It is a simple but memorable part of the First Rise experience.

WILDLIFE

The area around First Rise is rich with wildlife.

Bald eagles are frequently seen along the river, and an eagle nest can be viewed across the water. A wood duck nesting area is also visible nearby, along with kingfishers and other native birds.

And of course, trout rising in the river remain the most captivating sight of all.

MORE THAN A FISHING HOUSE

While First Rise is ideal for anglers, it is equally suited for guests who simply want to relax.

You can read on the deck, explore the Ozarks, cook meals together, sit by the fire, or do nothing at all except watch the river.

The home is designed to be just as enjoyable for non-anglers as it is for fishing groups.

WILDCAT SHOALS LOCATION

Location is everything on the White River, and First Rise sits directly on Wildcat Shoals.

This stretch is known for its trout fishing, scenic water, and classic Ozark character. Depending on generation, wade fishing may be possible directly from the property.

It is also an excellent base for guided floats on other sections of the White River.

EXPLORE COTTER

Located in Cotter, Arkansas, First Rise offers access to one of the most charming small towns in the Ozarks.

Guests can explore local fishing culture, scenic drives, and nearby river access points, or simply stay put and enjoy the property.

IDEAL FOR GUIDED TRIPS

First Rise is a perfect home base for guided fishing trips on the White River.

Spend the day floating with a guide, then return to your private riverfront home to relax, cook dinner, and enjoy the evening.

WHAT MAKES FIRST RISE DIFFERENT

First Rise is not just a place to stay near the river—it is a place on the river.

You are directly on Wildcat Shoals, with private frontage, river views, wildlife, and space for your entire group under one roof.

It is designed to make the White River experience feel complete—from morning light on the water to evenings around the fire.

WELCOME TO FIRST RISE

We built First Rise around what makes this place special: the White River, trout fishing, quiet mornings, wildlife, and time spent with the people you care about.

Whether you are here to fish, relax, or simply get away for a few days, we hope First Rise becomes part of your best memories on the White River.

Come for the river. Stay on Wildcat Shoals. Watch for the first rise.