Bull Shoals, AR

Bull Shoals Dam in White River State Park is a wonderful place to spend the day outdoors with your family or a group of friends. Start your visit at the state-of-the-art theater and visitor exhibit hall where you will learn about the history of the area and hear exciting fishing stories. The waters are famed for its world-class trout fishing and you’ll have the opportunity to throw your line out, spend time out on a boat, or go hiking, mountain biking, or camping. Other events and programs held at Bull Shoals Dam include kid-friendly campfires, trout fishing workshops, cooking demonstrations, and informative nature walks.

153 Dam Overlook Lake, Bull Shoals, AR 72619, Phone: 870-445-3629

The James A. Gaston Visitor Center can be found in the middle of Bull Shoals White River State Park and offers stunning views of Bull Shoals Dam, Bull Shoals Lake, and White River. A trip to the 1,700 square foot exhibit hall in the visitors’ center will let you explore several artifacts and interpretive exhibits, and even provide the opportunity to watch a historical film. You’ll get an in-depth look at the early inhabitants of the area, events that shaped the land, and the flora and fauna that you may come across in the park. Other aspects of the James A. Gaston Visitor Center include an observation tower and a gift shop.

Recommended Activities for Families

Formed 350 million years, Bull Shoals Caverns offers a gorgeous array of underground formations for you to explore - many of which are still growing today. The limestone cave has so many beautiful aspects for you to enjoy including one of their most stunning, an underground river. The forests of giant stalactites are intriguing to visitors, young or old, and are an amazing site to see. Tours of the cavern are held throughout the day and are sure to take you back in time as an experienced guide shares interesting facts about everything you’ll see. Some of the fauna you’ll come across during your tour include salamanders, camel crickets, and several species of bats.

1011 C S Woods Blvd, Bull Shoals, AR 72619, Phone: 870-445-7177

Bull Shoals Lake Boat Dock is your one stop shop for everything fishing and boating. Situated on the waters of Bull Shoals Lake, you’ll find everything such as new and pre-owned boat sales, boat and houseboat rentals, boat stall rentals, and scuba equipment rentals. Those who are experienced will be amazed at the array of products and services offered, while those who are starting out will be glad to get a hand from an experienced professional - you can get trained by a certified scuba instructor or go on a guided fishing trip so that you can enjoy yourself safely. Other aspects include a bait and tackle shop and an on-site convenience store.

140 Boat Dock Cove, Bull Shoals, AR 72619, Phone: 870-445-4424

Spanning over 732 acres, Bull Shoals-White River State Park was founded in 1955 and now has over 75,000 visitors annually. It is renowned for having one of the nation’s best trout-fishing streams, but if fishing isn’t your forte you can rent a boat to enjoy the water, hang out on the marina, or indulge in a meal in one of the many designated picnic areas. Visit their visitors’ center to view several artifacts and exhibits on the land and the people who lived on it years ago. One of the most exciting aspects of the park is Bull Shoals Dam which creates Bull Shoals Lake and is a beautiful sight to see.

153 Dam Overlook Lane, Lakeview, AR 72642, Phone: 870-445-3629

Attractions for Couples

Greg’s White River Guide Service is the best way to experience unforgettable trout fishing in Bull Shoals’ Twin Lakes area. Visitors come from all over the United States to fish with their experienced and knowledgeable guides in the clean, cold waters. Some of the trout species that you’re sure to come across include rainbows, browns, brooks, and cutthroat trout - the record for largest brown trout caught in Arkansas is 40 lbs. 4 oz. You can reserve half day or full day trips for solo travelers or large groups and can rest assure that everything you need such as rods, reels, tackle, bait, ice, water, and life jackets are provided by Greg’s.

Phone: 870-577-4668

Where to Eat in Bull Shoals, AR

Since 1980, the 178 Club has served some of the best food ever in the Ozarks region. Their passion for fine food and outstanding customer service is evident with each and every diner’s experience at the wonderful restaurant. They have an array of choice meats, fish, seafood, and vegetarian dishes for you to choose from. Begin your culinary journey from their starter menu which has 178 escargot, crawfish tails, calamari, and their famed 178 Club baked brie. After you dine on your choice of salad and/ or soup, then choose from their menu of pure beef burgers, sandwiches, and entrees - some that are popular with patrons include the honey Sriracha salmon, their almond crusted chicken, and the 8 oz. grilled sirloin with shrimp kabob.

2109 Central Blvd, Bull Shoals, AR 72619, Phone: 870-445-4949