Bull Shoals ArkansasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Bull Shoals, Arkansas.
1. Bull Shoals Dam
MAJESTIC ENGINEERING MARVEL
Bull Shoals Dam is an impressive engineering achievement that created the magnificent Bull Shoals Lake. The dam features massive equipment used to produce hydroelectric power and offers visitors spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. It is located within the Bull Shoals-White River State Park and has earned a 4.7/5 rating from visitors.
2. Bull Shoals Lake Boat Dock
COMPLETE LAKE SERVICES
Bull Shoals Lake Boat Dock provides essential services for visitors looking to enjoy the waters of Bull Shoals Lake. The dock offers boat launches, equipment rentals, and various supplies needed for a day on the lake. With a 4.3/5 rating, it serves as a central hub for boating and fishing activities on the lake.
3. Bull Shoals Caverns
UNDERGROUND NATURAL WONDER
Bull Shoals Caverns invites visitors to explore the fascinating underground world beneath the Ozarks. The caverns offer guided tours showcasing unique geological formations and the natural history of the region. Visitors rate this subterranean attraction 4.1/5, making it a popular destination for those interested in caves and natural wonders.
4. James A. Gaston Visitor Center
EDUCATIONAL HUB WITH VIEWS
The James A. Gaston Visitor Center offers interpretive exhibits, a theater showing the history of the dam and area, and an observation tower with sweeping views. It's perfectly positioned for capturing stunning sunrises over Bull Shoals Lake or sunsets over the White River. The center also includes a gift shop and educational classrooms, earning it a strong 4.7/5 rating from visitors.
5. Bull Shoals-White River State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Bull Shoals-White River State Park provides visitors with abundant outdoor recreation opportunities in a beautiful natural setting. The park features multiple trails, including the Big Bluff Trail and Oakridge Mountain Bike Trail, perfect for hiking and wildlife spotting. With an impressive 4.8/5 rating, it stands as one of the most beloved attractions in the Bull Shoals area.
6. Bull Shoals Theater of the Arts
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
Bull Shoals Theater of the Arts serves as a professional environment for the performing arts in the community. The non-profit organization hosts a variety of live entertainment events throughout the year, providing cultural enrichment for locals and tourists alike. With a 4.6/5 rating, the theater has established itself as a premier destination for arts and entertainment in Bull Shoals.
7. Point Return Public Use Area
SERENE FISHING SPOT
Point Return Public Use Area offers visitors a peaceful setting for bank fishing along Bull Shoals Lake. The area provides access to the clear, blue waters that have made the lake famous among fishing enthusiasts. Its natural beauty and accessibility make it a favorite spot for both locals and tourists seeking a relaxing outdoor experience.
8. Sami's Art & More Gallery
LOCAL ART SHOWCASE
Sami's Art & More Gallery showcases the creative talents of local and regional artists in Bull Shoals. The gallery features a diverse collection of artworks and crafts that reflect the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Ozark region. Visitors can browse and purchase unique pieces while supporting the vibrant arts community in Bull Shoals.
9. Roy Danuser City Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY RECREATION AREA
Roy Danuser City Park provides a welcoming space for families to enjoy outdoor recreation in Bull Shoals. The park features a playground for children and serves as a trailhead for hiking paths that wind through the scenic Ozark landscape. Its convenient location on Marilyn Avenue makes it easily accessible for both locals and visitors looking for a pleasant outdoor experience.
10. Dam Site Park
WATERFRONT RECREATION AREA
Dam Site Park offers convenient access to Bull Shoals Lake with its boat launch facilities and bank fishing opportunities. Located near the impressive Bull Shoals Dam, the park provides stunning views of both the lake and surrounding Ozark Mountains. Visitors appreciate the well-maintained facilities and the park's proximity to other attractions in the area.
11. Brown's Beach
LAKE ACCESS POINT
Brown's Beach provides visitors with a convenient access point to enjoy the crystal-clear waters of Bull Shoals Lake. The area features boat launching facilities and opportunities for bank fishing along the shoreline. Its natural setting offers a peaceful retreat for those looking to connect with the beautiful Ozark landscape and waters.
12. Gaston's White River Resort
PREMIER FISHING DESTINATION
Gaston's White River Resort is located across the dam on River Road, offering exceptional accommodations for fishing enthusiasts. The resort features trails with bird exhibits and extends throughout a beautiful property past the cottages. It provides access to world-class trout fishing on the White River, making it a paradise for anglers from around the country.
13. Bull Shoals Lake
CRYSTAL CLEAR WATERS
Bull Shoals Lake is a magnificent body of clear, blue water surrounded by 1,000 miles of scenic mountain shoreline. The lake's incredible visibility has earned it the nickname 'The Caribbean of the Midwest,' making it perfect for water skiing, scuba diving, and boating. With over 72,100 acres of water surface, it offers year-round fishing for multiple species, including bass and trout, and has produced seven state records.
14. Bull Shoals Caverns Tours
UNDERGROUND ADVENTURE EXPERIENCE
Bull Shoals Caverns Tours takes visitors on an in-depth journey through the fascinating underground world beneath the Ozarks. The guided cave tours provide educational information about the geological formations and the natural history of the cavern system. Visitors can enjoy special discounts on admission, with 10% off available until November 29, 2025.
15. Johnboat Theater
LOCAL HISTORY SHOWCASE
The Johnboat Theater offers visitors an immersive experience showcasing the rich history of Bull Shoals and the surrounding region. Located within the James A. Gaston Visitor Center, the theater presents films that tell the story of the dam's construction and the area's transformation. Its state-of-the-art presentations complement the center's exhibits, providing a comprehensive understanding of Bull Shoals' historical and ecological significance.