Buck Creek (Mo)
4.5164 reviews10600 S State Hwt 125, Protem, MO 65733, USA
Buck Creek (Mo)
$16.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$26.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$50.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary by site type and amenities, ranging from $16 for non-electric sites to $50 for group shelter sites during peak season.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shores of Bull Shoals Lake, Buck Creek Campground offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and peaceful relaxation. Whether you're launching your boat at dawn for a day of fishing, watching children play on the playground, or taking a refreshing dip in the designated swimming area, this shaded retreat provides everything needed for an unforgettable lakeside escape. Modern amenities like electrical hookups ensure comfort while you immerse yourself in nature's playground.
Buck Creek Campground caters to a range of camping preferences, from RV camping to tent setups. Most sites are equipped with electric and water hookups.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time with a visit to the nearby Peel Ferry, Arkansas' last remaining state-operated ferry service. This historic vessel has been shuttling travelers across the waters between Arkansas and Missouri via Highway 125 for generations, offering a glimpse into a bygone era of river transportation. The ferry stands as a living monument to the region's rich heritage and continues to serve as a vital link between communities.
Weather and SeasonsWhile summer brings warm days perfect for water activities (though humidity can make afternoons feel quite steamy), the true magic happens during spring and early fall. These golden seasons treat visitors to crystal-clear skies, comfortable temperatures, and ideal conditions for both land and water adventures. The moderate climate during these months creates perfect camping weather, with cool mornings giving way to pleasantly warm afternoons.
ElevationThe campground rests at a comfortable elevation that provides gentle slopes down to the water's edge, creating easy lake access while maintaining excellent views from the campsites.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to sunlight filtering through a canopy of stately hardwoods and aromatic cedars, with glimpses of Bull Shoals Lake sparkling between the trees. This natural amphitheater of forest and water creates an ever-changing canvas throughout the day, from misty mornings to golden sunsets. Wildlife thrives in this diverse ecosystem, where deer might wander through camp at dusk and songbirds provide nature's soundtrack from dawn to dark.
Geological RegionBuck Creek sits on the Arkansas shoreline of magnificent Bull Shoals Lake, a 71,000-acre jewel created by the White River's flowing waters. This vast aquatic playground is cradled by rolling hills dressed in native hardwood and cedar forests, creating a stunning backdrop that showcases the natural beauty of the Ozark region. The interplay between water and woodland has shaped this landscape for millennia, resulting in the spectacular scenery visitors enjoy today.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly detailed, though one review mentioned the need for holes in the ground to be filled to avoid tripping hazards for vision-impaired campers.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as spacious, with "plenty of space" between sites. Some sites offer concrete pads and cabana-style covers over picnic tables.
Sites PrivacyCampsites reportedly provide good privacy. One review highlighted, "The spacing between each site was really nice."
Total Campsites38 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring extension cords and cable management tools for sites like B02 where electrical outlets are inconveniently located.
Best CampsitesSites B12 and B05 are frequently praised for their size, shade, and views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in times vary, but typically 11:00 AM.
Check-out
Not explicitly stated.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay limit of 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Guest limits not explicitly stated for individual campsites.
Groups
The campground offers a group shelter with electricity, which is priced at $50 per night during peak season.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutConcrete slabs for parking RVs, some sites feature permanent cabanas over picnic tables. Flooding impacts availability of certain sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 01 to October 30.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot explicitly stated, but likely limited due to the reservable nature of the sites.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made until two days before arrival with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations forfeit fees for the first night.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Buck Creek offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, swimming, boating, and wildlife viewing. It's a great place for water sports enthusiasts and families alike. "Bull Shoals Lake has great appeal to jet skiers, water skiers, fishermen, birders, hikers and those who just want to 'get away from it all.'"
Hiking
Nearby attractions include two trails in Bull Shoals-White River State Park: the Big Bluff Trail, which offers views of the White River, and the Lakeside Trail, which meanders along the lake. No specific trails are listed within the campground itself.Fishing
The lake is a popular spot for fishing, particularly for species such as bass and crappie. One visitor mentioned enjoying "light fishing and lake exploring."Swimming
The campground features a swimming area, but reviews indicate that it can be "a mess" and the area for swimming is "not well defined."Boating
Boating is a highlight, with facilities like a boat launch ramp and marina. Some visitors reported issues, such as the lack of a courtesy dock or high water levels affecting docking areas.Wildlife viewing
Bird watchers and nature enthusiasts will find the area appealing, with opportunities to observe diverse species along the lake and in surrounding hardwood and cedar forests.Water Sports
Activities like jet skiing and water skiing are popular on Bull Shoals Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- No specific fire policies mentioned, but visitors are advised to buy firewood locally and burn it on-site.
- Quiet hours are Not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsSeasonal flooding impacts some campsites and playground areas. Lake levels are high; caution is advised.
Active alertsNo specific alerts reported in the authoritative sources.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 75%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 4.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are likely located in Mountain Home, AR (~24 miles away).
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 01 - October 30.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available, but there were several complaints about litter on the campsites. Recycling services are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Bull Shoals Lake offering swimming, boating, and fishing opportunities.
Common complaintsComplaints from reviews include inconsistent cleanliness of bathrooms, lack of site maintenance, and challenges with high lake levels.
HostHosts are described as friendly and accommodating in user reviews; however, some reviews note their limited presence.
Campground Map
10600 S State Hwt 125, Protem, MO 65733, USA
Driving directionsFrom Mountain Home, AR, take SR 5 N 24 mi. to US 160 JCT. Travel W on US 160 21 mi to Hwy U. Follow SR U 5 mi. S to US 125 for 5.7 mi. to Buck Creek Park Access Road. Follow signs into campground.
Accessible from paved state highways and roads. Seasonal conditions may impact accessibility due to weather-related issues.Nearby places
Mountain Home, AR - 24 miles (~30 minutes), Branson, MO - ~75 miles (~1.5 hours)
Nearby supplies
General supplies are likely available in Mountain Home, AR (~24 miles away).
Camper Reviews
4.5
64 reviews
Buck Creek (Mo) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews of Buck Creek Campground are mixed, with an overall positive sentiment for the natural surroundings and helpful staff. Many reviewers praise the campground for its "friendly and helpful hosts" and "great views," while others criticize poor maintenance and cleanliness issues.
Review Summaries
Based on 64 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects noted include "shaded campsites," "clean facilities," and "beautiful lake views." Many users appreciated the quiet surroundings, spacious sites, and accommodating staff.
Based on 64 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints include inadequate maintenance (e.g., "trash at campsites," "dirty bathrooms") and issues with campground infrastructure, such as "power outlets on the wrong side of some sites" and "high...
Based on 64 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing an extension cord for certain sites, as "the power outlet may be on the opposite side of the parking pad." Several reviewers advise checking the site for cleanliness upon...
Based on 64 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is popular for water activities but can bring challenges like high lake levels and poorly defined swimming areas. Fall offers beautiful foliage, making it a recommended season for visits.
Based on 64 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The view of the lake is wonderful," "Shawn and his family are so accommodating and wonderful," "Bathrooms were spotless," "The campsite was nice and clean," "If you're looking for a place to get...
Based on 64 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific sites such as B02 and B12 received mentions for unique features like lake views and table covers. However, B02's power setup was criticized as being "on the wrong side."
Based on 64 reviewsAccessibility Features
One review mentioned the need for improved ground maintenance to avoid tripping hazards.
Based on 64 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific mentions of pet-related experiences.
Based on 64 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025