Old Highway 86
4.74669 reviews1791 State Hwy UU, BLUE EYE, MO 65611-7268, USA
Old Highway 86
$25.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
During peak season (April 1 - October 30, 2025), nightly rates include $25 for standard electric sites and $50 for group shelter sites. Additional...
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Standard Site Fee$25.00
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
Total Campsite Fees$75.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider417-779-5376
About this campground
Perched on a sun-drenched peninsula where three sides meet the sparkling waters of Table Rock Lake, Old Highway 86 Campground offers an irresistible blend of adventure and tranquility. This expansive retreat along the White River Arm has become a beloved gathering place where families cast fishing lines at dawn, swimmers dive into crystal-clear waters, and boaters explore hidden coves. Whether you're seeking the perfect picnic spot or hoping to catch a glimpse of local wildlife, this waterfront paradise delivers memorable experiences at every turn.
Old Highway 86 Campground caters to a variety of campers, including those with RVs, tents, and groups. The campground offers 71 reservable sites and one group picnic shelter.
Historical SignificanceThe story of this remarkable landscape began with the construction of Table Rock Dam, an engineering marvel that transformed the White River valley into one of the Midwest's most stunning recreational lakes. Today, visitors can delve deeper into this fascinating history at the nearby Dewey Short Visitors Center, where captivating exhibits reveal both the natural wonders and human ingenuity that shaped this region. The center's displays bring to life the area's transformation from rugged Ozark wilderness to premier outdoor destination.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Old Highway 86 Campground with its own unique palette. Spring arrives with gentle warmth and a spectacular display of wildflowers carpeting the hillsides. Summer transforms the campground into an aquatic playground, with perfect temperatures beckoning swimmers and water enthusiasts. As autumn approaches, the surrounding forests burst into a symphony of gold, crimson, and amber, creating postcard-worthy vistas. Winter brings a peaceful hush to the landscape, offering solitude seekers a chance to experience the lake's quiet beauty, though some facilities may have limited availability during colder months.
ElevationNestled within the rolling terrain of the ancient Ozark Mountains, Old Highway 86 Campground offers the perfect vantage point to appreciate this timeless landscape. While specific elevation markers remain unrecorded, campers will find themselves immersed in the characteristic hills and hollows that have defined this region for millennia, with gentle slopes leading down to the water's edge.
Natural Features and SceneryNature's artistry is on full display across this Ozark Mountain sanctuary, where towering oak and hickory forests frame breathtaking views of Table Rock Lake's 779 miles of pristine shoreline. Spring visitors are treated to a magical transformation as dogwood and redbud trees burst into delicate pink and white blooms, creating a fairytale canopy overhead. Come autumn, these same forests ignite with fiery colors that reflect off the lake's surface, doubling the visual splendor. The interplay of ancient hardwood forests and expansive water views creates an ever-changing canvas that photographers and nature lovers find endlessly captivating.
Geological RegionOld Highway 86 Campground sits at the heart of the Ozark Mountains, one of North America's oldest mountain ranges, where ancient limestone bluffs and weathered granite peaks tell a geological story spanning hundreds of millions of years. Table Rock Lake, carved into this rugged landscape, showcases the region's dramatic topography with its deep, clear waters nestled between forested ridges. The surrounding oak and hickory forests represent centuries of ecological succession, creating a living museum of Ozark natural heritage that changes with each passing season.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes accessible showers and restroom facilities. Paved roads and level sites also make the area accessible for visitors with mobility challenges.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size, with ample room for RVs and tents. Level pads are a common feature, and pull-through sites are available.
Sites PrivacySites are moderately spaced, providing a balance between privacy and community. Some sites are more secluded, particularly those on the peninsula, while others are closely spaced.
Total Campsites71 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites on the peninsula and near the water are favored for their scenic views. Site 31 is noted for its peaceful surroundings.
Best CampsitesHighly rated campsites include sites 21-24 near the point and sites 25-33 on the north side of the lake.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 3:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay of 14 nights within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
One tent and one RV or two tents allowed per campsite.
Groups
One group picnic shelter is available for reservation. Details on the capacity were not specified.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is laid out along a peninsula with paved roads, asphalt pads, and stone landscaping around site pads.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen April 1, 2025, through October 30, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available via phone at (877) 444-6777 and online through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites may be available as first-come, first-served, but early reservations are highly recommended due to high demand.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations before the arrival date incur a $10 fee plus forfeiture of the reservation fee. Late cancellations subtract the first night's fee from any refund. Modifications can be made for additional nights or changing sites without a fee during the stay.
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
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Campers at Old Highway 86 Campground have access to a variety of activities, including swimming, hiking, biking, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. Situated on the White River Arm of Table Rock Lake, the campground is perfect for water-based activities and family outings.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities abound, including access to the two-mile Table Rock Lakeshore Trail, where visitors can enjoy seasonal blooms in spring and colorful foliage in autumn. The nearby Mark Twain National Forest offers additional trails for exploration.Fishing
Fishing is a major draw at Table Rock Lake, known for its abundance of crappie, catfish, bluegill, and bass. The shorelines adjacent to the campground are excellent for fishing.Swimming
A designated swimming area is available at the campground. The beach can be rocky, so water shoes are recommended.Biking
The campground's paved roads and nearby trails make it suitable for biking. Reviewers have described the terrain as 'fairly level,' making it ideal for casual cyclists.Boating
Boating is a popular activity, with a boat ramp located on-site. Visitors often bring kayaks, paddleboards, and motorized boats to explore the lake.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a common activity, with opportunities to see local bird species and other animals native to the Ozarks.Beach activities
The rocky beach area is suitable for sunbathing and swimming. Visitors are encouraged to bring chairs and water shoes.Winter Activities
No winter-specific activities were mentioned; the campground operates seasonally from April through October.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and tubing are popular among visitors.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated fire rings at campsites.
- Quiet hours are enforced, though specifics are not mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include rocky terrain at the water's edge and wildlife encounters. Chiggers have been noted in high grass areas.
Active alertsNo specific alerts mentioned, though reviews noted occasional tall grass and temporary power outages.
Weather forecast
58
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 83%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 9.3 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are available in Branson, Missouri, approximately 17 miles away. This includes hospitals, police stations, and other essential services.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 1, 2025, to October 30, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, but specific details about their locations and schedules were not mentioned in the source.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on Table Rock Lake with water access on three sides. Includes a swimming area and boat ramp.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include tall grass, limited sewer hookups, long lines at the dump station, and occasional unhelpful staff.
HostHosts are generally friendly and helpful, though a few reviews mentioned isolated incidents of rudeness.
Campground Map
1791 State Hwy UU, BLUE EYE, MO 65611-7268, USA
Driving directionsFrom Branson, Missouri, take Highway 65 and turn west onto Highway 86. After 6 miles, turn north on Highway UU and follow signs to the campground.
The campground is accessible by paved roads, and the directions from Highway 65 to Highway UU are straightforward. No off-road vehicles are permitted.Nearby places
Branson, Missouri (17 miles, approximately 30 minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
Convenience stores are nearby, but major grocery stores, camping supplies, and fuel are in Branson, Missouri, approximately 17 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.7
669 reviews
Old Highway 86 is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Old Highway 86 Campground is highly regarded for its beautiful lakefront sites, well-maintained facilities, and friendly staff. However, some issues like tall grass and a lack of sewer hookups have been noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 669 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers frequently praise the campground's cleanliness, scenic views, and spacious sites. Many reviewers also highlight the well-maintained restrooms and the friendliness of the camp hosts.
Based on 669 reviewsCommon Concerns
Negative feedback includes concerns about tall grass and weeds, strong odors from vault toilets, and inconsistent water temperatures in the showers. Some visitors also mentioned occasional...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Reserve spots early, as the campground is highly popular. Bring water shoes for the rocky beach area, and plan to visit nearby attractions like Branson and the Dewey Short Visitors Center.
Based on 669 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Spring and fall are noted for their scenic beauty, with blooming wildflowers and vibrant foliage. Summer is the busiest season, with some complaints about grass maintenance and restroom cleanliness.
Based on 669 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'This is my favorite park on Table Rock Lake! So many lakefront sites with gorgeous views!' - Tanya T.
2. 'Restrooms were clean and the shower building had plenty of space.' - Alicia P.
3. 'The...
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Site-Specific Reviews
The best sites are often reported to be those on the peninsula, particularly sites #21-24 and #25-33. Some specific complaints were raised about site #36 being difficult to back into and having...
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Accessibility Features
Reviews indicate that the campground is accessible, with level sites and paved roads. Accessible showers and restrooms are available.
Based on 669 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but some reviewers noted issues with barking dogs and a lack of enforcement of leash rules.
Based on 669 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
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