Whatever your interest, Bull Shoals Lake offers unlimited opportunities for natural resource-based recreation. Whether you are pursuing the many game or fish species, watching the beautiful wildflowers and animal life, or hiking through the forests, everyone enjoys the natural resources around Bull Shoals Lake. Our parks give you access to many activities, from boating, swimming, and fishing to camping, hiking, and hunting. Bull Shoals Lake is the place for you and your family to spend your vacation, to enjoy a weekend getaway, or to just go somewhere for the day.
With wide open, breezy stretches for sailing and quiet, and secluded coves for skiing and swimming, the clear and uncrowded waters of Bull Shoals Lake are ideal for water sports. Scuba diving is excellent, attracting divers from throughout the central United States. With 48,195 surface acres of water, Bull Shoals Lake is also known as a great place for fishing. The wooded and mostly undeveloped shoreline allows for ample room to enjoy the hills and hollows.
Developed parks offer campsites that range from rustic to modern with electrical hookups, playgrounds, group picnic shelters, designated swimming areas and boat-launching ramps. Fees are charged for the use of some facilities. Concessionaire-operated marinas provide boat and motor rental, fuel and other related supplies and services.
Dogwood Trail, Wildwood Trail, and the Forsyth Trail enable nature observers and photographers to view nature through the change of seasons. Spring-flowering trees, shrubs and wildflowers add subtle colors, while fall brings the hills ablaze with the colors of oaks and hickories. Viewing wildlife is a popular activity on the and around the lake, and these trails provide access to a variety of habitats.
The 56,413 acres of public land around Bull Shoals Lake provides the hunter with good opportunities for white-tailed deer, wild turkey, squirrel, rabbit and quail. Migratory birds and waterfowl, such as doves, ducks and geese are also found here. Some areas are cooperatively managed with state and volunteer organizations to provide maximum benefits for both game and non-game wildlife.
The area has a wide range of accommodations and services for visitors. More detailed information about lodging, restaurants and other recreational opportunities can be obtained from area chambers of commerce.