Bull Shoals Lake camping areas sit at approximately 700 feet elevation in the Ozark Mountains, with temperatures reaching the 90s in summer and dropping to the 30s during winter nights. Water temperatures remain relatively cold year-round due to deep reservoir conditions, with many campsites positioned within walking distance of shore access points. Most campgrounds maintain seasonal operations with limited winter facilities outside dedicated RV parks.
What to do
Trout fishing excursions: Bull Shoals-White River State Park provides prime access to cold-water fishing. "We chartered the afternoon with a local outfitter and had a great time. We caught a number of trout and were able to eat them for dinner on our last night," notes Ryan S. The park includes multiple outfitters for guided fishing trips.
Eagle watching: The riverside campsites offer wildlife viewing opportunities beyond standard camping. One camper at Bull Shoals-White River State Park shared, "There was an eagles nest on the other side of the river, so we got to Eagle watch all day as they circled the river hunting for their dinner. It was AMAZING!"
Nature trails exploration: Several Bull Shoals Lake campsites connect to walking paths suitable for all ability levels. At Buffalo Point, campers can access diverse hiking options. "We enjoyed a nice walk along the water, views of the sunset from a small cliff, and a peaceful night without cell service," reports Kaylee W., highlighting the disconnected experience many seek.
Cold water swimming: The deep, cold waters of Bull Shoals Lake offer refreshing swimming opportunities during hot summer months. At Pontiac campground, "No beach but rocks to jump from into incredibly deep water," according to Laura L., describing the natural swimming spots typical around the lake.
What campers like
River and lake views: The positioning of many Bull Shoals Lake campsites allows for direct water views. At Blue Heron Campground, "Step out of your RV and you will see some of the most beautiful scenery anywhere in the United States," according to Wanda S. These waterfront locations provide constant connection to the lake or river.
Morning fog displays: Early risers at riverside campsites often witness natural fog phenomena. Sharon N. from Blue Heron Campground notes, "My highlight was the way the fog rolls in at night and disappears in the morning. It was so pretty over the river."
Concrete pads and hookups: Many campers appreciate the level, well-maintained sites at Lakeview - Bull Shoals Lake. Wayne P. described the campground as having "Concrete pads and asphalt driveway. Good road around campsites. Pads are very level. Sites have a lot of space between them with many Oak shade trees."
Wildlife encounters: Beyond water activities, campers enjoy spotting local wildlife. Leslie D. at Bull Shoals-White River State Park mentioned, "I've stayed at this park a few times and I've never been disappointed. You can see the river from most camp sites. Some sites have private access to White River."
What you should know
Water level fluctuations: Lake and river levels change frequently based on dam releases and rainfall. At Point Return City Park, "One road does flood over with high water. Beach within walking distance, but also inaccessible in high water," explains Katie. Water conditions can change rapidly based on dam operations.
Varying bathroom facilities: Restroom quality ranges widely between campgrounds. Buffalo Point camper Amanda W. noted, "The bath house was a little messy and it seemed that one toilet wouldn't flush." Consider bringing supplies for less developed facilities.
Road noise considerations: Some waterfront campgrounds experience traffic sounds from nearby bridges. At Blue Heron Campground, Jennifer O. mentioned, "Everything was absolutely perfect except the road noise....which in all fairness we knew about. LOTS of noise. It died down after 8pm and before 8am."
Limited cell service: Many Bull Shoals Lake campsites have minimal or no cellular connectivity. Heath L. at Buffalo Point observed, "There is no service in the camp site at all," making these locations better suited for those wanting to disconnect completely.
Tips for camping with families
Educational ranger programs: Some Bull Shoals Lake campsites offer structured learning activities. Shannon M. from Bull Shoals-White River State Park shared, "The visitor center is awesome and the park had several activities available. We went to an owl talk and a bear talk that was very informative."
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. Chad K. notes about Bull Shoals State Park, "The playground is large and will entertain the kids for a while. They have a wide range of hiking trails that will suit any experience level."
Cabin options for mixed groups: For families with members who prefer not to tent camp, Copper Johns Resort provides riverside accommodations. "This is a mixed use place. It appears that there are long time campers, some weekend campers and nice cabins along the River," explains Shana D., highlighting the flexibility for groups with different comfort needs.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids often enjoy spotting animals around camp. At Buffalo Point, camper Cody S. mentions, "The campground is nestled in the Buffalo National River Wilderness offering many options on the river or hiking the mountains and bluffs."
Tips from RVers
Water hookup distances: At some Bull Shoals Lake campsites, utilities might require extra equipment. Krissy C. at Lakeview notes, "The water hookup was quite a distance from the site and had to use three hoses to make it reach." Pack additional hose lengths when visiting.
Boat launch proximity: RVers with boats should consider site locations relative to launches. Adam R. points out about Lakeview, "Very large park, and busy during the summer. People launching their boats make it difficult to get into some spots if you have a large camper."
Single, double, and triple sites: Many campgrounds offer multi-pad options for group camping. Shana D. explains that at Lakeview, you can "Select from single, double or triple sites if you want to stay with friends/family." These configurations work well for RV groups traveling together.
Senior discounts availability: RV campers with appropriate passes can receive substantial savings. Cheryl H. explains about Lakeview, "Large wooded sites on Bull Shoals lake with private covered patios, fireplace, grill, water & electric, level concrete slabs and large clean bathhouse...for $10 to $24/night depending on your qualifying discount."
