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Bull Shoals Lake, a sprawling 45,000-acre expanse of crystal waters, stretches across the borders of Missouri and Arkansas, offering an unparalleled outdoor adventure. With nearly 1,000 miles of shoreline enveloped by deep forests, this lake is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. For adventure seekers, the lake provides endless opportunities for boating, water skiing, tube floating, and even scuba diving in its clear blue depths.
Families can enjoy camping at one of the 19 developed parks, complete with campgrounds, pavilions, and public beaches that ensure safe and enjoyable swimming for all ages. Anglers will find this lake particularly enticing, with record-breaking catches of largemouth bass, striped bass, and walleye, as well as exceptional trout fishing downstream of the Bull Shoals Dam.
Nearby, the Bull Shoals Dam itself is a fascinating historical landmark, offering guided tours that reveal the engineering marvels behind its hydroelectric power generation. The Bull Shoals-White River State Park features a visitor center with interpretive exhibits, an observation tower, and a gift shop, providing a rich historical context to the area. For those seeking a unique underground experience, Bull Shoals Caverns are just a short journey away, offering an intriguing exploration of ancient cave formations. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a wellness enthusiast, or a family looking for a memorable vacation, Bull Shoals Lake is a destination that promises an unforgettable experience.
- Surface area (mi)
- 113.9
- Max depth (ft)
- 209.97
- Elevation (ft)
- 659.45
- Shoreline length (mi)
- 1000
Ideal for
- Family friendly:
- Pet friendly:
- Romantic getaways:
Popular activities
- Hiking
- Kayaking
- Canoeing
- Fishing
- Freshwater Fishing
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Marinas on Bull Shoals Lake Vacation Rentals
Nearby lakes
Where to stay
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Bull Shoals Lake Vacation Rentals has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Yes, there are designated swimming areas at Bull Shoals Lake. These areas are found in parks such as Buck Creek, Highway 125, Lakeview, Lead Hill, Oakland, and Theodosia, where day use fees apply.
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Bull Shoals Lake is a popular destination because of its extensive recreational opportunities. The lake offers over 1,000 miles of shoreline, numerous parks with camping and picnicking facilities, and a variety of activities such as boating, water sports, fishing, and scuba diving. It is also known for its clear, blue water and diverse fish species.
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Yes, Missouri residents need a White River Border Lakes Permit to fish in the Arkansas portion of Bull Shoals Lake. This permit allows them to fish without a nonresident fishing permit and costs $10. They must also have a Missouri fishing permit or qualify for an exemption.
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Yes, there are dog-friendly beaches on Bull Shoals Lake. Bull Shoals offers two designated doggie beach areas where dogs can roam leash-free and take a dip in the lake’s crystal-clear waters. These areas have sandy shores and gentle lake waves, making them suitable for dogs to play and swim.
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Towns near Bull Shoals Lake include Mountain Home, Arkansas, and Harrison, Arkansas. These towns are located in close proximity to the lake, with Mountain Home being about 15 miles to the southeast and Harrison a bit further north. Other nearby towns include Yellville, Arkansas, and Calico Rock, Arkansas.
