Presented below are frequently asked questions about houseboat rentals and houseboating on Bull Shoals Lake. If you need additional assistance, please contact us toll-free at 888-454-8825 or click here to submit a request for more guidance. Our friendly and knowledgeable Houseboat Rental Agents are always happy to help.
It’s always a good time to go houseboating! Summer (between Memorial Day and Labor Day) is the most popular and is the busiest season. However, fall offers Indian Summer days with cooler nights. View a month-by-month list of temperatures here: Average Temperatures.
The maximum capacity on any houseboat is what the houseboat sleeps, no exceptions. This is a regulation set by the Coast Guard.
The renter must be at least 21 years of age with a valid drivers’ license.
Pets are allowed on the 50’ houseboats only, and require a $50 per pet cleaning charge.
There is no special licensing or prior experience required to operate these houseboat rentals; just a valid drivers' license. The marina staff will go over operations and regulations in an orientation upon your arrival.
Marina staff will also pilot you in and out of the marina itself; you'll take over on open water.
The cost of a houseboat vacation is based on a few variables: what time of year you plan to visit, what size of houseboat, how long of a trip, etc. See our Pricing Page for more details
Generally, people reserve about 3-6 months in advance. But it’s always a good idea to make a reservation as soon as you’re ready, especially if you have specific dates in mind or if you’re planning a trip over a holiday weekend or on a special promotion.
Give us a call at 888-454-8825. Our reservation agents are happy to check availability or confirm your vacation.
Alternatively, you may Contact Us Online with your availability request, and one of our agents will get back to you with the information you need.
To reserve:
Cancellations:
Basics such as cookware and serve-ware (pots, plans, plates, glasses, utensils, etc.) come equipped on the houseboat. You are responsible for bringing all of your food, beverages, and spices down to salt and pepper.
More specifics can be accessed on the houseboat page under Amenities and Items Provided. There will also be more included in the attachments of your confirmation email.
Fuel is not included in the houseboat rental. Like a rental car, you'll pick up the houseboat full and you'll be responsible for the final refueling at the end of your trip to pay for what you've used.
Typically, we recommend that you budget about $100 per day for fuel. Of course, it may be more or less based on how much you drive the houseboat each day and how much you run the generator.
Pillows and Linens are not provided. You will need to bring your own pillows and bed linens as well as bath and swim towels.
You may pick up the houseboat between 12noon and 5pm (call to schedule) and must be due back at the marina by 9:30am on your final day.
Bull Shoals Lake Boat Dock operates on a set schedule:
If you arrive at the marina after hours, the marina staff will leave your name and houseboat number on the office door with information about where it’s docked.
You can load the houseboat and sleep on it that night in the marina, then go through the check in and orientation process the next morning before you go out on the water.
For an additional cost, Early Boarding the evening prior to your trip may be an option based on availability.Give us a call at 888-454-8825 for details.
We have several options: Watercraft Rentals
Bull Shoals Lake is located on the border of Arkansas and Missouri, in Bull Shoals, AR. See our Map & Directions page to view a map and directions to the Bull Shoals Lake area.
Bull Shoals Lake Boat Dock
719 Shorecrest Dr, Bull Shoals AR 72619
*The above address is for driving directions only. Do not mail payments to this address
The nearest grocery store about five blocks away from the marina.
The marina has a marina store stocked with limited convenience items and ice.
You will want to come fully prepared with all groceries as there are no grocery or restaurant opportunities along the lake.
Yes! There is fishing at Bull Shoals Lake!
There are a variety of fish found in these waters including: Smallmouth, Spotted and Largemouth Bass, Walleye, Channel, Blue and Flathead Catfish, White Bass and Rainbow Trout. Crappie, Bluegille, Gar, and Freshwater Drum are also common.
An Arkansas state fishing license is required and will allow you to fish anywhere on Bull Shoals Lake. Be sure to purchase a license online ahead of time, or you may purchase one at the marina.
Seasickness is very uncommon on fresh water because the lake is mostly calm and houseboats are wider and more stable than smaller boats. However, if you get sick easily we recommend that you take necessary precautions.
