Bull Shoals Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Bull Shoals Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Bull Shoals Lake today is 23.8°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 75°F (23°C) to 79°F (26°C). This is a very comfortable temperature for swimming, and many people can enjoy prolonged stays in the water without feeling cold. The water is pleasantly warm, making it ideal for relaxation and water sports. This temperature range is particularly popular among tourists, as it combines comfort and safety for health. It is important to note that these swimming tips and recommendations apply only in good weather. When the air temperature is below 68°F (20°C), and sometimes even below 77°F (25°C), swimming can be unpleasant even with relatively high water temperatures.
Water Temperature Chart Over the Last 30 Days
Table of Daily Sea Temperature Data
| Date | Current | Average | Forecast |
|---|---|---|---|
| AUG 24 | 25.3°C | 25.0°C | |
| AUG 25 | 25.3°C | 25.0°C | |
| AUG 26 | 25.3°C | 25.0°C | |
| AUG 27 | 23.7°C | 25.0°C | |
| AUG 28 | 24.4°C | 25.0°C | |
| AUG 29 | 23.8°C | 25.0°C | |
| AUG 30 | 23.8°C | 25.0°C | |
| AUG 31 | 23.8°C | 25.0°C | |
| SEP 1 | 25.0°C | 23.9°C | |
| SEP 2 | 25.0°C | 23.9°C | |
| SEP 3 | 25.0°C | 24.0°C | |
| SEP 4 | 25.0°C | 24.0°C | |
| SEP 5 | 25.0°C | 24.1°C | |
| SEP 6 | 25.0°C | 24.2°C | |
| SEP 7 | 25.0°C | 24.2°C |
* Current - Actual water temperature value
** Average - Average water temperature on this day in recent years
*** Forecast - Our water temperature forecast
Actual nearshore water temperatures may fluctuate by several degrees from the reported values, especially following heavy rainfall or extended periods of strong winds. Certain wind patterns can cause colder, deeper waters to rise and replace the sun-warmed surface water, leading to noticeable variations.
Our forecast is based on a proprietary mathematical model that considers real-time water temperature changes, historical trends, key weather patterns, wind strength and direction, and air temperature specific to each region. Additionally, we incorporate data from other resorts to enhance accuracy.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 3°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| February | 4°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| March | 5°C | 11°C | 17°C |
| April | 8°C | 13°C | 19°C |
| May | 15°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| June | 14°C | 21°C | 27°C |
| July | 18°C | 25°C | 32°C |
| August | 20°C | 25°C | 30°C |
| September | 20°C | 25°C | 30°C |
| October | 17°C | 22°C | 26°C |
| November | 11°C | 14°C | 17°C |
| December | 7°C | 10°C | 14°C |
Bull Shoals Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Bull Shoals Lake: Weather Forecast
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Location & Local Information
Bull Shoals Lake, a massive reservoir stretching across the Arkansas-Missouri border, experiences water temperatures characteristic of the Ozark Mountain region. Due to its depth and size, the water is slow to warm and retains its coolness. In the cool winter months, the surface temperature generally ranges from the 40s to low 50s F (4∘C to 13∘C). During the peak summer season (July and August), the surface layer warms significantly, reaching a very comfortable and refreshing range for swimming, often peaking between 75∘F and 82∘F (24∘C to 28∘C).
Swimming is widely permitted and highly encouraged in Bull Shoals Lake, as it is a major recreation hub managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the state park system. Bull Shoals-White River State Park and various Corps campgrounds feature numerous designated swimming beaches, confirming the activity is fully supported. However, these designated beaches are typically unsupervised by lifeguards, meaning all swimming is strictly at one's own risk. Swimmers should be especially cautious of the large volume of boat traffic, particularly during holidays, and be mindful of the cold water temperatures that persist below the surface layer.