Frequently Asked Questions - Bull Shoals Lake
How do I get to the Lake?
From Springfield, Missouri: Take 60 east to Mansfield, MO; take 5 south to Midway, AR; take 178 west to Bull Shoals. Turn right on Shorecrest Drive at Country Inn, then take first left and follow to Bull Shoals Boat Dock.
From Little Rock, Arkansas: Take I-40 west to Conway; take 65 north to Marshall; take 27 east to Harriet; take 14 north to Yellville; take 62 east to Flippin; take 178 to Bull Shoals. At Country Inn turn left on Shorecrest Drive, then take first left and follow to Bull Shoals Boat Dock.
Click here to see a map and directions for Bull Shoals Lake.
When do I pick up the boat?
The boat can be picked up between 12pm and 5 pm. All boats must be out of the marina 1 hour before dark or you are required to stay at the marina for that night. Return time in by 9:30 am, with a $50 per hour late charge.
How many people are allowed on the boat?
The maximum capacity for each boat is 10 people for the 50’ Wet Bar, 14 people for the 50’ Bunk Bed and 60’ Deluxe.
What will the temperatures be like on my trip?
The lake is warm from mid-summer through late fall and pleasantly cool in the shoulder seasons. Winter and early to mid-spring water temperatures are too cold for extended swimming without a wetsuit. View a month-by-month list of temperatures here.
How difficult is driving a houseboat?
Driving a houseboat is different than driving a car, but is not that difficult. The marina staff will walk you through driving the boat when you pick it up. Most people get the hand of maneuvering the boat within a few minutes.
If you’re concerned about your ability to handle the boat, you may arrange for a captain to guide you out of the marina or drive you to a specific destination on the lake.
What is the billing schedule?
At the time of booking, you must pay a deposit to confirm your reservation of the houseboat. Your full rental amount is due upon arrival.
How do I check availability or reserve a houseboat?
Give us a call at 888-454-8825, and one of our reservation agents will be happy to check availability for you. It’s helpful if you already have an idea of when you want to go and what boat you’re most interested in when you call.
Alternatively, you can contact us online with your availability request, and one of our agents will be happy to get back to you with the information you need.
How early do I need to reserve?
Bull Shoals is a very popular lake. Some of our boats have been known to book out more than two years in advance. The earlier the better is a good rule to follow, particularly if you have an exact date in mind for your trip, or if you’re planning a trip over a holiday weekend.
However, if you’re flexible with your dates or the exact houseboat model, we can almost always find a trip for you even a few weeks before hand.
Are linens included with my houseboat rental?
No, you will need to provide your linens, pillows & towels and beach towels.
Are pets allowed on my houseboat?
Pets are allowed on 50' houseboats for a non-refundable $35 charge per pet.
Where is the nearest grocery store so I can stock up before my trip?
There is a convenience store right at the marina. For all of your grocery needs, the nearest grocery stores will be found in Lakeview or Bull Shoals, Arkansas.
How old do you have to be to rent the houseboats?
The renter needs to be 21 years of age with a valid drivers license.
Do I need a license to operate the houseboats, or is a skipper provided?
There is no special license needed to operate our houseboats. There are rules for operating houseboats on the waterways, and we will explain them to you upon your arrival.
Will I get seasick on a houseboat?
Houseboats are on pontoons and there is very little motion. Seasickness is basically unheard of on fresh water.
What is the best time of year to go houseboating?
It is always a good time to go houseboating! Summer is the most popular and busiest season. Fall offers Indian Summer days and cooler nights. Springtime is good for viewing abundant wildflowers, waterfalls, and wildlife. Winter is favorable for the anglers, when fishing is at its best. And the rates are significantly lower between September and May.
Can I fish from the houseboat?
Yes! Fishing is a very popular activity on the lake. Bull Shoals Lake is literally filled with fish. The major sporting species are smallmouth, spotted and largemouth bass, walleye, channel, blue and flathead catfish, white bass and rainbow trout. Crappie and bluegill, gar and freshwater drum are also common. The marina stores sell a good variety of bait and tackle for optimizing your chances of catching fish, whether you’re a novice or an expert.
