Camping at Shores Lake Recreation Area

Overview

Shores Lake Recreation Area nestled in the Ozark-St Francis National Forests provides a fantastic getaway for camping enthusiasts. This scenic area features a picturesque lake, plentiful fishing opportunities, hiking trails, and family-friendly camping spots.

Camping Facilities and Fees

Facilities:

• Shores Lake Recreation Area offers camping sites that can accommodate both tents and RVs.
• Each campsite typically includes amenities such as picnic tables, grills, and fire rings.
• Drinking water is available on the premises.
• The campground generally provides vault toilets.
• Some sites may offer electric hookups, but it's important to verify this before your trip, as many sites are basic and do not offer electricity.

Fees:

• There is usually a fee per night for camping, which varies based on the type of campsite (with or without electric hookups, single or double sites, etc.).
• Day-use fees might also be applicable if you're planning on just spending the day without an overnight stay.
• It's recommended to check the latest fee structure from the USDA Forest Service or by contacting the Ranger District.

Activities

• Fishing: Shores Lake is well-stocked with fish, making it a great spot for anglers looking to catch bass, bream, and catfish.
• Hiking: The area is well known for the Shores Lake-White Rock loop trail, which is considered challenging and rewards hikers with beautiful vistas.
• Swimming: While there are no designated swimming areas, visitors often swim in the lake at their own risk.
• Boating: Small boats are welcome on Shores Lake, but there may be restrictions on motor size; check the specific rules before bringing a boat.

Reservations and Regulations

• Reservations: Some campsites are first-come, first-served, while others can be reserved in advance through the Recreation.gov website or phone service.
• Regulations: To ensure the enjoyment and safety of all visitors, there are regulations in place like quiet hours, pet rules, fire management, and guidelines for trash disposal. Additionally, you'll need to adhere to fishing regulations which may include license requirements and catch limits.

Safety and Wildlife

• Weather: Be prepared for changing weather conditions and pack accordingly. This region can experience a range of weather, so waterproof gear and layers are advised.
• Wildlife Precautions: Black bears are native to the area, so proper storage of food and disposal of garbage is critical. Use bear-proof containers when available or secure food in your vehicle.
• Emergency Preparedness: It's always essential to have a first-aid kit, know the closest medical facility, and have a method of communication in case of emergencies.

Access and Seasonal Considerations

• The campground typically has an operating season which may be subject to weather conditions or federal budget constraints. It is advised to check the open season and any potential alerts or closures before planning your trip.
• Roads leading to the campground may be narrow with sharp turns, suitable for most vehicles, but always drive cautiously and respect speed limits.

Contact Information

• For the most current information, it's best to contact the local Ranger District.
• Ranger District phone numbers and addresses can typically be found on the USDA Forest Service website, where updated alerts and notices for forest areas are also posted.

Before you go camping at Shores Lake Recreation Area, confirm the details for your trip by checking the USDA Forest Service website or contacting the local ranger station for the most recent information on conditions, fees, and any restrictions that might be in place. This will help ensure a safe and enjoyable camping experience.