Table Rock Lake spans 43,000 acres across the Missouri-Arkansas border with 745 miles of shoreline. The lake maintains consistent water levels year-round through dam control, making it reliable for waterfront camping. Several campgrounds along the shoreline offer direct water access with concrete pads for camping equipment.
What to do
Fishing from dedicated docks: At Cooper Creek Resort, campers can fish directly from the campground's docks. "Can fish off of dock for trout. Nice laundry area. Very family friendly," notes Robin R. The resort provides boat rentals for affordable rates.
Volleyball and swimming: Mill Creek campground offers water activities right at camp. "Great place for setting up a tent or parking your RV. Electric and water available. Great swimming spot with volleyball net. An ate to put your boat in the lake," shares Angie W.
Trout hatchery exploration: The fish hatchery at Roaring River State Park provides educational opportunities. "You can walk the holding tanks and feed the trout from baby to ready to be released into the river," explains Wendy M. Kids especially enjoy this interactive experience during hot summer days.
What campers like
Private bathroom facilities: Campers appreciate the updated restroom facilities at Old Highway 86 Campground. "The showerhouse is spacious and clean! The whole campground is well maintained with a playground, swim beach and sand volleyball court," says Natalie C. Many sites feature paved pads and fire rings.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The natural setting attracts diverse wildlife. "Wildlife is everywhere. Eagles, hawks, fishing and more," reports John R. about Mill Creek campground. Early mornings provide the best opportunities for bird watching along the lakeshore.
Easy access to Silver Dollar City: Tall Pines Campground offers shuttle transportation to the nearby theme park. "The campground buses you to and from the theme park, so you don't have to worry about parking and the long walk to and from the park!" explains Donna M. The shuttle runs regularly during park operating hours.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Popular waterfront sites book quickly at peak times. "Book early... fills up very quickly!" advises Collette about Mill Creek campground. Weekends in summer often fill 3-6 months in advance, while holiday weekends can book up to a year ahead.
Site spacing considerations: Some campgrounds have tighter spacing than others. "The sites are close but not bad this time of the year," notes Shelly O. about Branson Lakeside RV Park. Off-season camping provides more space and privacy.
Weather and water levels: Spring rains can affect campground facilities. "Rains also can dictate your usage of certain portions of the park as the level of the lake can climb and engulf the swimming beach and outlets to the marina," explains Crystal C. about Indian Point campground.
Tips for camping with families
Storm shelter access: Cooper Creek Resort provides safety features that benefit families. "The storm shelter is marked clearly on the map and explained when you check in," notes Crystal C. This provides peace of mind during spring and summer storm seasons.
Playground access: Many campgrounds provide play areas. "We try to be right by the playground and our kids always make lots of friends at The Wilderness. Clean bathrooms, nice store, great pool and shuttle to SDC are all nice amenities," shares Sarah C. about Tall Pines Campground.
Swimming options: Multiple pet friendly campgrounds near Table Rock Lake offer swimming areas. "The swim beach is nice and has picnic tables for use. We kayaked around the cove while others swam. No alcohol or pets allowed in the beach area which I appreciated. Family friendly!" reports Natalie C. about Indian Point campground.
Tips from RVers
Electric box safety: Check power connections upon arrival. "The biggest and most dangerous issue was the low voltage at the electric box that caught our surge protector and main power cord of our camper on fire," reports Amber B. about Branson Lakeside RV Park. Using a surge protector is recommended for all RV campers.
Site selection strategy: Review site maps carefully before booking. "Choose your site wisely though, I reserved a site unseen and ended up only having enough space for my popup and parked at the bathrooms," advises Bryan C. about Indian Point. Most campgrounds provide site dimensions online.
Seasonal considerations: Different seasons offer varied experiences. "We most recently camped in the far loop which is not waterfront but has nice sites. We could hike down to the waterfront but there really aren't designated trails from this area," shares Natalie C. about Indian Point campground.
