The Branson/Tri-Lakes area is, obviously, known for its lakes! While Lake Taneycomo and Table Rock Lake are the most well-known and popular bodies of water, the third lake that makes up the ‘Tri-Lakes’ should certainly not be overlooked! Bull Shoals Lake has some exciting recreational opportunities that the other lakes don’t. So the next time you are in or around the Branson or Ozarks area, head on over to check out Bull Shoals Lake!
Settled in southwest Missouri and northwest Arkansas, the artificial reservoir that is Bull Shoals Lake spans hundreds of miles, and with 19 parks around the lake, it is a prime location for swimming, fishing, boating and more. The Bull Shoals Dam was built to impound the White River to alleviate flooding problems (like the Table Rock Dam). This dam was completed in 1951 and dedicated by Harry S. Truman in 1952. Today, the dam and lake is not only a historical site, but also have been the host grounds of Brostock in 2010 and 2011, and the TBF Bass Federation and Bassmaster Elite Series Tournaments in 2012. The lake, dam and undeveloped shoreline are carefully managed by the Army Cops of Engineers. Bull Shoals sports its own state park for visitor enjoyment – the Bull Shoals/White River State Park. There is also a lakeside vacation resort perfectly suited to families.
For a really unique activity on Bull Shoals, consider going IN the lake instead of on or beside it. That’s right, for the really adventurous lake goers, Bull Shoals Lake offers some of the most unique scuba dive tours around. At the Bull Shoals Lake Boat Dock, you can take a scuba diving class from P.A.D.I certified trainers, take a daytime OR nighttime guided boat diving trip, and even learn how to become a search and recovery scuba diver! You can rent or purchase your scuba diving equipment from the Bull Shoals Lake Boat Dock, and group charter rates are available. And for the really adventurous divers, Bull Shoals Lake allows spearfishing of certain species of fish during daylight hours only.
There is also some stellar fishing on Bull Shoals Lake that the anglers out there won’t want to miss out on. Bull Shoals Lake is a great source for Walleye, a popular Pan Fish in the Ozarks. Catfish and bass can also be fished out of Bull Shoals. The lake features many hidden coves along the shore that make the perfect hiding place for fish – find one of these and you’re set for a whole day of fishing!
Bull Shoals Lake is really a hidden treasure in the Ozarks. Keep this lake in mind the next time you want a fresh and unique outing!
